It's that time of year again!!! The VHS musical theater department is in full gear getting ready for the 2015 student musical. Last year was such a wonderful experience for both the students and the production team. Choosing a show this year was difficult. It seemed as if anything we chose would be a letdown after Peter Pan. How do you top flying?!? We did a lot of debate on the matter. We wanted something timeless, exciting for the students, and still technically challenging. There are an seemingly endless number of musicals to choose from. But, here was the winner for 2015:
It was exciting presenting this to the student body. We had actually taken a poll a few months prior asking the kids and other community members what they'd like to see us do in the future. Singin' in the Rain was a very popular response. We felt it was a perfect fit for our students this year. Not only that, it was something they wanted to do. We wanted them to be motivated for this year's show, so choosing something they were passionate about was important to us. Also, we have new technical elements to conquer--creating films and making it RAIN!!
We have been in rehearsals now for almost 2 months. In December, our primary choreographer was in town and we did a large portion of the dances before Christmas vacation. Once school resumed in January, we began blocking. The kids are doing such a great job already. I have no doubt this show is going to be absolutely wonderful.
This year we have added a new assistant director, Ken, who comes with loads of experience and a vocal coach. Vocal guidance is one area we've been lacking in the past few years. Despite the absence of a good coach, the students have still done well. However, the difference our new coach, David, has made is significant even at this early point in rehearsal. He's taking them to a new level and not only are we thrilled but the students are LOVING him too. Win-win!
Well, this marks the end of the first installment of this year's Making of a Musical series. Check back for production updates the next few months and make plans to come see Singin' in the Rain this April 9, 10, & 11!!!
Here's some pics of our time together so far! Enjoy!
Rosie teaching the audition dance sequence
Little Sophia ready to take the stage!
A small number of characters are getting staging and choreography taught by Lula Elzy, a choreographer and dancer from New Orleans!
We are sooooo excited for this show!!
These two have grown-up in this theater! My little side-kicks.
Ahhh, one of David's wonderful teaching methods ;)
And in case you want to see it live!!
A good portion of our wonderful cast of students!
