In Lemon Bay High School's production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream," Jason Norman was going to play Nick Bottom, a character who does what Norman did throughout his young life -- make everyone laugh.

Rehearsals were supposed to begin Sunday in the school's auditorium. But instead of a giddy rehearsal, students will file into the auditorium to stage a memorial for Norman, who was found dead from what his family and friends say was most likely abuse of prescription drugs.

A popular senior, Norman, 17, died Wednesday after paramedics found him not breathing in his Port Charlotte apartment.

Though his family and close friends said Norman, at times, abused his prescription drugs, they are reeling from the loss of a young man who many believe could have become The Second City or "Saturday Night Live" performer he aspired to be.

Related Article(s): Instead of a play, teen's friends plan service

responses to this article...