Shadows
Shadows is an emotionally powerful original stage play written and produced by Aspri Frank for the high school Drama Club she founded, and later performed at The Sanctuary of God under the leadership of Bishop Angus Brabham III. Blending raw storytelling, symbolism, and faith-filled reflection, the play follows two teenage girls, Selena and Savannah, as they navigate the heartbreaking loss of their best friend, Valencia, after a tragic accident.
Through shifting scenes of grief, denial, spiritual struggle, and friendship, Shadows explores how loss can alter reality — creating a “shadow world” where memories feel safer than healing. As Selena withdraws into isolation and visions of Valencia, Savannah fights to keep their friendship intact while gently guiding her back toward faith, community, and acceptance
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The play tackles deep themes such as:
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Grief and the stages of mourning
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Friendship as a lifeline through trauma
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Wrestling with God in moments of pain
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The spiritual battle between despair and hope
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Learning to release what you cannot change
With a blend of live acting, voiceovers, emotional movement, and symbolic staging, Shadows gives audiences an intimate look at how young people process tragedy, and how God’s love, even when questioned, ultimately brings restoration. It is a heartfelt message of healing, forgiveness, and holding on to light even when life feels overwhelmingly dark.
Director's Note
Directing Shadows has been one of the most meaningful creative experiences of my career. What began as a simple idea grew into something far more powerful—a space where young people could explore storytelling, faith, emotion, and community through the arts. Working with the students was an absolute joy. I had the privilege of watching them grow not only as performers, but as leaders.
Behind the scenes, they rose to every challenge with maturity and passion. Whether they were running tech, learning blocking, managing props, or supporting each other through emotional scenes, they stepped into their responsibilities with determination and grace. Each rehearsal showed me how capable, creative, and resilient they truly are.
Their commitment transformed Shadows from a script into a living, breathing experience. Because of their hard work, teamwork, and willingness to learn, the play was a complete success, touching hearts, starting conversations, and showing just how powerful youth-driven art can be.
I am incredibly proud of them, and grateful for the opportunity to guide, mentor, and witness their growth. This production is a reminder that when young people are given vision, trust, and opportunity, they rise, and they shine.
— Aspri Frank, Director
Why I started The Drama Club
I started the drama club because I wanted to create a safe, creative space where students could discover their gifts and express themselves beyond the classroom. I saw how much potential they had, some were natural performers, others were leaders, organizers, writers, or quiet creatives waiting for a chance to shine. I wanted to give them an opportunity to build confidence, learn responsibility, and experience the joy of bringing a story to life. The drama club became a place where they could grow, take risks, and find their voice, and watching them step into their purpose has been one of the most rewarding parts of my work.