Iyore Ip '29

Author

The Humans “Reflects on what Modern Life is Like”

As the end of Milton’s performing arts season nears, The Humans, the last of the 1212 plays for the year, took place in the Black Box Theater from April 30 to May 2. The Humans, written by Stephen Karam, follows a modern-day family gathering for Thanksgiving while also offering a look into the family’s individual and collective struggles. The production was directed by Shane Fuller and featured a six-person cast consisting of Lyla Tanzi ’26, Davey Glazer ’28, Vivienne Mockenhaupt ’27, Phoebe Zhang ’26, Nora Jin ’28, and Arsen Shymon ’27. As a 1212 play, a series of productions named for their previous location in Warren 1212, The Humans had a very different style compared to many other Milton Academy productions, both in scale and in material. While The Humans’ setting, a family dinner, is definitely less grand compared to those of other productions this year such as Hadestown or Clue, it provides a much-needed change and voice in Milton Academy’s performing arts, one that reflects our own everyday lives.

By Iyore Ip '29May 14, 20262 min read

A&E

2026 Oscars Reflect a Shift in Hollywood

The 98th Academy Awards, or the Oscars, hosted by American comedian and television host Conan O’Brian, took place on March 15th, 2026. The Oscars recognize some of the best films released in the last year, serving as a reflection of Hollywood and the greater film industry throughout 2025. This year, the Oscars gave out awards in 24 categories recognizing multiple facets of filmmaking with awards ranging from Best Actor to Best Production Design, and even Best Costume Design. Some of the most anticipated awards of the night this year were dominated by Sinners and One Battle After Another, two of this season’s most acclaimed films. Besides this battle between the two films, particularly for the spot of Best Picture, the night also featured musical performances featuring the nominees, including performances from the cast of KPop Demon Hunters and Sinners.

By Iyore Ip '29April 17, 20264 min read

A&E

Spring Awakening Adaptation Opens Up Conversation Around Themes of Sexuality and the Teenage Experience

At the time of its creation in 1891, many considered the play Spring Awakening by Frank Wedekind as too controversial for audiences due to its dark and, at the time, taboo themes surrounding sexuality and adolescence. Over 100 years later, the musical adaptation of the play, written by Duncan Sheik and Steven Sater, explores the same themes with a different approach. Although over a century apart, the message remains the same and is especially highlighted through the score and soundtrack of its 2006 musical. Incorporating rock music of the 1990’s and early 2000’s with the original album’s classic musical theatre creates a unique listening experience contrasting the two very different time periods’ styles. While one track might feature a fast-paced, angst-filled rock song, the next might still provoke tears with a slow-moving beat.

By Iyore Ip '29February 13, 20263 min read

A&E

Wicked: For Good Struggles to Find Its Gravity

Wicked: For Good, based on Act II of the Broadway musical, begins where the previous film left off and proves itself to be a fitting sequel. Anyone who was a fan of the first movie’s vibrancy will not leave the theater disappointed. Through the incredible performances and show-stopping vocals from the leading cast which includes Broadway legend Cynthia Erivo and global popstar Ariana Grande, beautiful scenic design, and impressive costume design by Paul Tazewell, all of the original magic of the first film is maintained and built upon.

By Iyore Ip '29December 12, 20253 min read