LAKEWOOD — Mark Fernandez is familiar with being on stage. After all, he’s been in seven plays during his drama tenure at Lakewood High School.

“I like being able to express what I do on stage and share who I am,” said Fernandez, a senior. “And there’s no bigger rush than on opening night.”

Fernandez, 17, will again be on stage later this month for the high school’s production of “The Mousetrap,” an Agatha Christie murder mystery.

The play is slated to take place in the high school auditorium at 7 p.m., Nov. 13-14 and 20-21.

“This group works really well together,” said drama instructor Rebecca Walker.

The performance is the second under Walker, who was hired last year to teach English and drama.

Walker said part of her job description was to re-build the drama department at the school — a task that’s taken some work.

The school has been without a consistent drama department for the past couple of years.

“There wasn’t much direction when I got here,” Walker said. “We’re trying to replace things and work with what we have.”

Despite some challenges, such as a cramped backstage area and limited resources, Walker said she’s liked what she’s seen out of the students.

“The Mousetrap” will mark the second production Walker has been involved in since coming to Lakewood. The school put on a production of “George Washington Slept Here” in the spring.

About 12 students are participating in the Christie production. Fernandez plays lead character Detective Sgt. Trotter, who is solving a murder in an English manor.

Seniors Kolby Hatch and Breanna Camp co-star as Giles and Mollie Ralston.

“(Giles) just kind of does what I tell him to do,” Camp said.

Set design for the play was constructed by former Arlington High School student Andrew Smith.

Smith was brought on by Walker to build sets and help out with production.

The students and organizers said they’re hoping to change public perception about the drama program with their performance in “The Mousetrap.”

“We’re trying to build the program back up,” Smith said. “It’s been a learning process working with administration. There’s not a lot of community support right now because they don’t know we’re here.”

Tickets are $7 for general admission, $5 for students with their ASB cards.

For more information, contact Lakewood High School at 360-652-4505.