Bishop Neumann’s drama department performing ‘The Nerd’

Bishop Neumann’s fall play may be centered on a veteran of the Vietnam War, but it’s hardly a drama.

Neumann’s drama department is performing “The Nerd” this week.

Shows are scheduled Friday through Sunday. Friday and Saturday’s shows start with a dinner at 6:30 p.m. and tickets are $13. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and anyone wanting tickets can call Neumann at (402) 443-4151.

Sunday’s show is scheduled for 1 p.m. There is no dinner on Sunday, and tickets can be purchased at the door.

“The Nerd” focuses on Vietnam veteran Willum, played by senior Jeremiah Steager -- a Fremont native.

Willum had his life saved in Vietnam by a mysterious stranger -- Rick -- who resurfaces a few years after the war and is socially awkward. Junior Nolan Sullivan portrays that character.

Other main characters include Axel, played by Joey Zimmerman, and Tansy, portrayed by Kara Sousek.

“It’s a really well-written comedy show,” director Brian Botsford said. “The jokes play pretty well even 20 years after it’s been written. It’s one of those shows that if people don’t go outside laughing they haven’t been paying attention.”

Botsford said the cast of 11 students has worked hard to get the show ready for performances.

“The amazing thing about comedy is that it is more difficult than anything else,” Botsford said. “You would think that you could just go onstage and be a ham, but it really takes that timing.”

Botsford said the Neumann community has a tradition of supporting the school’s productions.

“It’s always a real popular thing,” Botsford said.

A portion of the money raised during the performances on Friday and Saturday will be donated to Neumann’s sophomore class to help pay for next year’s prom, Botsford said.