From left, Gage Latozke (Wayne Hopkins), Lexie Goff (Megan Jones), and Josh Gordon (Oliver Rivers) display pensive moods in the NUHS spring play “Puffs.”

The New Ulm High School spring play tells the story of an orphaned boy who attends a certain school of wizardry.

But, he’s not the boy you’re thinking of.

“Puffs,” written by Matt Cox, tells the story of Wayne Hopkins. Instead of being placed with the brave or smart students, he finds himself in the often-overlooked “Puffs” — a group known more for their loyalty and kindness than for saving the world.

Over seven increasingly chaotic school years, Wayne and his friends face magical challenges, strange professors, and the ever-present danger of a dark wizard while trying to prove that even the most unlikely heroes can make a difference.

“Puffs” gained immense popularity because of its quick humor and heartfelt message about friendship, perseverance, and finding your place.

“The show is well-known because it’s from Harry Potter,” said Lexie Goff (who plays Megan Jones). “It’s really nice to be able to connect with that because everyone knows the Harry Potter story. I really like it because my friends are basically the cast. Everyone gets along so well.”

She said the play is a lot of work.

“I’ve been in musicals and plays. I think plays are harder because it’s all lines,” said Goff. “Timing, when to get on and off stage is another challenge. We have many things going on in the play and have to coordinate it all. We’ve been working on it since early February. Theater is like being on a giant sports team. Everybody strives for the same goal. I plan to study college theater and music.”

Gage Latozke (Wayne Hopkins) said he finds theater a “really cool art form” because he can express ideas and emotions.

“It’s a really fun time to hang out with friends and share experiences,” he said. “It takes a lot of extra time but it’s about balancing it with school work and activities. I hope to be part of a university theater program because I enjoy it so much.”

Josh Gordon (Oliver Rivers) said he likes the play because it gives a new vibe to Harry Potter.

“In this play, Harry Potter is seen as kind of an annoying pest which is fun,” he said. “I like theater in general because its kind of like escapism, something you can do to get out of everyday life, hang out with friends and find new ways to express yourself.”

Director Samarah Forster talked about how she wound up doing the play.

“I’ve always loved books about wizardry. When I read the script I just fell in love with it,” she said. “I think a lot of theater kids can relate to feeling like they’re not the most popular and don’t get the spotlight and glory, so they can relate to this story.”

She said the play has 62 speaking roles.

“But this is the biggest cast we’ve had in a long, long time, so I’m really excited. They love to sing. I love this cast. They’re hysterical. And the show is so, so funny.” said Forster. “Even if you aren’t familiar with the stories, you’ll enjoy it.”

The production includes a cost of more than 40 students portraying more than 60 characters, 600 sound effects, 200 props and an immeasurable amount of laughter and magic.

Whether you are a die-hard wizardry fan or you can’t tell the difference between a potion and a potato, this show will make you smile.

Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m., Friday, April 17, 2 and 7 p.m., Saturday, April 18 in the New Ulm High School Auditorium. Tickets, $7 for adults, $5 for students, (activity passes accepted) are available at the door.

The cast includes:

Edith Albrecht Ms. Babble/ensemble

Ellie Anderson Hannah

Xavier Benson Goyle, Ric Gryff, ensemble

Greta Berger McG/ensemble

Sophie Berger Harry/Bippy

Olivia Booms Frenchy/ensemble

Everett Brown Narrator

Hunter Dauer A Fat Friar/Prof. Turban/Prof. Locky/ensemble

Levi Ellanson A very tall man, second headmaster, ensemble

Tilken Fruhwrith Uncle Dave, Clumsy Longbottom

Nolan Gag Ernie Mac

Lexie Goff Megan Jones

Tyson Goold Zach Smith

Josh Gordon Oliver Rivers