LEONARD GRAY

PHOTO: DESTREHAN HIGH COMICS Erik Schmaltz, at left, and Sam Ebeyer, as Amerigo Vespucci and his wife, “Sophia,” entertain a student audience at DHS. (Staff Photo by Leonard Gray) DESTREHAN – The trio took to the stage as if they were born to it, and maybe they were. Destrehan High School students Samuel Ebeyer, Rodrigo Ribeiro and Erik Schmaltz rollicked their way through “The Complete History of America (Abridged)” in a special series of performances for the DHS student body. The comedy had the trio taking on a variety of roles, from Amerigo Vespucci and his wife, Sophia, to World War I soldiers in the trenches. “America gets better as you go backwards,” Schmaltz said of the play, which Sam called, “a satiric look at the history of America.” The broad slapstick episodes within the play highlighted their comedic talents, physical humor and impeccable timing. From dressing as Betsy Ross to shooting water at audience members with Super Soakers, the production highlighted the myriad of talents of this trio of demented thespians. Erik, 18, is the son of Bill and Debra Schmaltz of St. Rose. His plans include pursuing a media communications degree at Louisiana College. His roommate-to-be, Sam, 17, is the son of Glenn and Donna Ebeyer of Destrehan. Rounding out the act is Rod, 18, also of Destrehan, the son of Cleuza Ribeiro. His plans include pursuing a double major in theology and psychology at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Okla. After each performance the trio chatted with the audience in an easy, comfortable manner which displayed their level of comfort in front of audiences. These guys are not shy. While their comedy talents are exclusive to this area at present, that may not last long, once they hit college. Erik and Rod are among the cast for the upcoming production of “The Dining Room.” This DHS Drama Department production is scheduled April 24-27, at 7 p.m. each night, in the school auditorium. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children over the age of 10.