SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WPRI) — After the passing of a beloved teacher, the drama club at Smithfield High School is putting on a show in her honor.

In late December, the show’s co-director, Katherine Young, died unexpectedly .

“Katherine was not only a consummate professional, but she made theater and music fun, joyous, and accessible to all students,” Smithfield Superintendent Dr. Dawn Bartz said at the time of her passing.

“It’s just hard to even believe still,” music teacher Kelly Chartier added. “It’s just such a shock because she was so young and healthy and vibrant.”

The show’s director, Kerissa Roderick, told 12 News the show must go on.

“We took some time to grieve and reflect, and after about four weeks, the students and I got together and said, ‘We are ready, and we need to do this,'” Roderick said. “We’re going to do it in her honor, and dedicate the show to her, persevere and put this great production on.”

“The Addams Family Musical” will be performed at Smithfield High School on Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.

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