With the ship’s steering wheel at the center of the stage, a giant ship awaits the audience, ready for an adventure. 

‘Treasure Island’ begins without any words, only fierce fighting among several pirates. The grinding of swords and knives creates a constant, earsplitting din. Three female pirates hold the audience’s attention.

Set in 1775, Jim Hawkins, the main character played by Adam Kroksh, stands at the side of the stage, illuminated by the spotlight and giving a compelling monologue.

Kroksh, junior in performing arts, succeeds in playing a 14-year-old boy, showing his awe and fear of the pirates and weapons. He is also able to portray an older and wiser Hawkins during his monologues, which occur throughout the play.

In ‘Treasure Island,’ no absolute good or evil exists. Long John Silver, the biggest villain in the play, is clever despite his evilness. Silver cunningly draws the pirates to his side and also earns the trust of Hawkins. 

No matter how big or how small a role is, every actor brought 100 percent effort to the play, even if they did not have a speaking role. 

The story line follows the treasure throughout the entire play. Jim Hawkins, Long John Silver, Jim’s father, Dr. Livesey and all of the pirates pursue the treasure. The treasure is also the reason for the struggles among the characters.

Hawkins discovers the value not only of gold and silver but also of his personal character growth.

In one of the most electrifying shows I have ever seen, ‘Treasure Island’ was an exciting show that left the audience feeling like it could relate to Hawkins’ tale and the deeper meaning of life. 

Toward the end of the play, Hawkins was presented with the opportunity to kill Silver but chooses to save his life instead. By saving the life of his enemy, Hawkins shows grace in allowing Silver to escape.

To me, ‘Treasure Island’ is not just about the treasure of money but also the value of kindness and life itself. Hawkins learns how to make difficult life choices and forgive people, even his greatest enemy. In this way, I think Hawkins’ growth is also a kind of treasure.