Youth in the Heart of Virginia doing extraordinary things is not unusual. Viewing a play directed and written by a Buckingham County High School (BCHS) junior come to life on the stage, however, isn’t something that happens everyday. It only marks the beginning of a promising career for student Tajhmir Gough.

Catch his play Friday, 7 p.m. at the BCHS auditorium.

Gough wrote the play, “Love is Broken Glass,” during his freshman year at Buckingham County High School. He was inspired to reimagine William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, which “Love is Broken Glass” is based, after reading it in an English class.

“I wanted to write my own version,” Gough said. When an assignment came up to write a one-act play, Gough said, “I thought that was the perfect way to do it.”

Gough, 16, spoke about the positive experience of collaborating with his classmates and teachers in bringing the production to life, about two people who come from very different circumstances fall in love. In addition to their story is a story of the mother and aunt of Gough’s character who are entrenched in a feud.

Kristye Moxley, English teacher and organizer of the BCHS drama group, said Gough has taken this project in stride, penning the play and setting a good example for fellow students and teachers.

Gough said bringing the main character, Jonathan to life was challenging because it was difficult to live up to the expectations he envisioned. He said his directing and playwriting heroes are Tyler Perry, Regina King and Ryan Coogler. Gough said he wants to become a screenwriter and director when he becomes older.

In addition to being a member of BCHS’ drama group, he’s also a regular presence on the BCHS honor roll.

Gough and other drama students are also set to attend the Virginia Theater Association (VTA) Conference in Norfolk but need a bit of help to do so.

To learn more or donate, visit joinartsii.com/campaign/small-rural-high-school-in-need-of-funds-to-attend-state-conference#.W7XvsdGXJQk.facebook.

EMILY HOLLINGSWORTH is a staff reporter for The Farmville Herald and Farmville Newsmedia LLC. Her email address is Emily.Hollingsworth@ FarmvilleHerald.com.