Junior Iris Reardon started transcribing her screenwriting passion into script when she was a freshman here at ETHS. The influence of her older sister, Orlagh, a former actress at ETHS, inspired Reardon to begin working behind the scenes of theater, in the form of screenwriting. Seeing her sister perform, Reardon’s eyes were opened to the world of physical expression through acting, and despite being afraid to go on stage, Reardon still participated immensely in the theater world.
Reardon applied to be a writer for the Writers Showcase freshman year and ended up getting two of her pieces accepted. Reardon was applying just for fun, not realizing that the current Showcase board would, in fact, love her work.
“I did not anticipate getting my submissions into Writers Showcase since they get over 100 submissions every year,” Reardon says.
Reardon’s acceptance into the Writers Showcase led her to acquire the self-confidence that is crucial for every aspiring writer.
Seeing her work performed inspired Reardon to create more scenes for the next year’s showcase and apply for a screenwriting intensive at Interlochen over the summer. Her experience at Interlochen allowed her to communicate with professional screenwriters and discover the correct ways to approach her screenwriting format, with fun opportunities to connect with other writers.
As she became more confident in her talent, Reardon applied for the YAMO board in her sophomore year, once again, not expecting her skills to be recognized. When Reardon was accepted onto the board, she knew she was in for a big transition concerning her past writing strategies. Reardon’s experience in YAMO allowed her editing skills to soar, as she often had to rewrite and refine her scenes while working with her peers to construct a show from nothing.
Despite the tireless nights she spent enhancing her craft for YAMO, she never let those busy hours discourage her. Reardon’s hard work and poise eventually led to an amazing show, despite having to reassure herself that her writing was indeed worth working for.
“Just because your ideas aren’t accepted or appreciated doesn’t mean you’re lesser than anyone,” Reardon notes.
Even after being denied multiple times, Reardon persisted and eventually got to see her scenes performed live on stage.
“It was so amazing to see my scenes performed, and to see people enjoying them,” Reardon says. “That experience really made me feel good about myself, because making people laugh when they’re not having the best day is really important.”
Reardon does not plan to pursue screenwriting as an ultimate career, but is excited to continue writing behind the curtains for shows here at ETHS and beyond. Although screenwriting is a very difficult and daunting task, Reardon never fails to deliver high-quality scripts and scenes that make us wonder about the mastermind behind it all.
Reardon hopes to continue her role on the YAMO board in her senior year and is currently on board for this year’s upcoming Writers Showcase. As Reardon completes her junior year and begins her senior year, look out for her name in programs when watching student-led shows.
