Making the Musical

Story by Taylor Schmidt »

Putting together a musical takes a lot more behind the scenes work than what meets the eye. The cast of Willy Wonka has spent countless hours rehearsing while the crew coordinates lighting and props. Even the art and woodshop students are working hard to build the props and set pieces.

Senior Sarah McClellan, a member of the stage crew, says that this year’s musical is coming along a lot better than musicals in the past.

“It’s fun being behind the scenes and knowing that without you the whole thing couldn’t have happened,” McClellan said. She is also excited to do the makeup for the Willy Wonka characters. Seeing her work go out on stage is one of her favorite parts.

Alongside the crew, every cast member, veteran or first-timer, has been putting in a lot of work at rehearsal. Freshman Alexander Vonderbrink, who plays the role of a kid and a chorus member, is enjoying the experience of his first year participating in the fall musical.

“Being at practices is really fun,” Vonderbrink said, “It’s a very dynamic musical and there are a lot of lessons people can learn from watching it.” Senior Andrew Harmon, a veteran cast member, will be playing the role of Grandpa Joe, who shows the audience many of the life lessons learned in the musical. Harmon’s favorite part of being in the musical is getting to see the funny improvisations that fellow Senior Andrew Zook, who plays the lead role of Willy Wonka, does when he doesn’t know his lines.

All of the hard work these students have been putting in can be seen on opening night. The musical cast and crew would love to see you at their shows on Thursday, Nov. 9, and Saturday, Nov. 11, at 7 p.m. each night.