Willowbrook to present winter play, ‘Puffs’
Pictured above: Willowbrook students rehearse scenes from the school's upcoming winter play, “Puffs, or: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic (Two-Act for Young Wizards)” by Matt Cox.
Willowbrook Theatre invites you to enjoy a journey to a Certain Wizard School with the Puffs, as Willowbrook presents its winter play, “Puffs, or: Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic (Two-Act for Young Wizards)” by Matt Cox.
According to www.puffstheplay.com, “For seven years, a certain boy wizard went to a certain Wizard School and conquered evil. This, however, is not his story. This is the story of the Puffs … who just happened to be there, too. (This is) a tale for anyone who has never been destined to save the world.”
While a famous “chosen one” is busy saving the world, this fast-paced, hilarious show focuses on a group of well-meaning underdogs. These “other students” are just trying to learn magic, build friendships and stay alive – all while battling snakes, dragons, soul-sucking security guards and "He-Who-Should-Never-Be-Named."
Willowbrook Theatre Director Terri Woebel said she is thrilled to return to the stage with this production, after taking time to raise her family.
“This show is a wonderful comedy that’s perfect to welcome in the community,” Woebel said. “I’m a Potterhead, so this play definitely resonates. It’s about friendship and how your own story is beautiful and valuable. I hope the audience can sense my excitement to share my love of theatre and passion for that certain magical school and the Puffs."
She added the theme of the play can be summed up with a quote from the show: “There’s only one magic we ever really need … A magic that will let you live on. The greatest magic there is. Love.”
Woebel said “Puffs” will feature a mix of experienced actors and new performers, as the production attracted many students to audition for the first time.
Willowbrook juniors Megan Usry (who plays Megan Jones) and Kasey Barnett (who plays Wayne Hopkins) said it has been a fun experience to portray the perspectives of other characters who aren’t part of that certain "main trio" associated with Harry's world.
“The moral of the story is love, acceptance and having faith in yourself,” Usry and Barnett said. “Regardless of whether you’re familiar with this ‘certain Wizard School,’ you can enjoy a good laugh and connect with this story.”
Senior Zane Pederson (who will make their debut at Willowbrook as Harry) said the show exudes “chaos, with bouts of humor.”
Freshmen Desiree Baughman and Cate Ford agreed.
“It’s full of unexpected jokes and radiates positive energy,” they said.
“Puffs”
Are YOU a BRAVE, SMART, SNAKE, or PUFF? Show your house pride by coming to the show dressed in YOUR wizarding house apparel. Bring those wands, owls and scarves!
“Puffs” is appropriate for all ages.
When: 7 p.m. on Feb. 5, 6 and 7, 2026
Where: Willowbrook High School, 1250 S. Ardmore Ave. in Villa Park
Tickets:
- $10 for adults (13 years old and older)
- $5 for children (12 years old and younger)
- Free for those with a District 88 student ID or a District 88 Senior Gold Card
- Family passes will be accepted
- Tickets can be ordered online at https://willowbrooktheatre.ludus.com/index.php
- Tickets also will be available to buy at the box office (45 minutes before the performances)
For questions or more information: Contact Willowbrook Theatre Director Terri Woebel at twoebel@dupage88.net