We have all watched at least one musical in our lives, whether on Broadway or right from our TV screens. Grease, Hairspray, Annie, and Wicked are just a few of the most popular musicals that have left long-lasting impressions on us all. No matter which musical you watch, they all have the same components; a close-knit cast, outstanding acting, infectious tunes, and a heart-warming message.
Who could resist the captivating tunes that escape right from the stage of a musical? Watching the actors sing and dance with joy around the stage will transport you into a whole other world. Both the lyrics and the melody evoke such strong emotions both on stage and in the audience. The music is sure to make you jump out of your seat, sing along, and dance! The music produced by the cast is such a powerful way to tell a story, to inspire others, and to teach a strong, lasting message. The compelling melodies will be stuck in your head well after the curtains have closed.
Freshman criminal justice student Gabriella Franco has experience in musical theatre. She shared, “When you’re in a cast with everyone, it gives you a sense of community and builds up a foundation for friendship.” Being a part of musical theatre is a great way to meet friends with the same interests as you. Franco also added, “If you’re having a rough time in your life, theatre is a form of escape.” No matter who you are, acting brings you into a whole new world and allows you to explore the depths of your character in a fun and exciting way.
Freshman communication student Samantha Ventola adds that being involved with musical theatre “gives you a sense of belonging, especially if you love what you’re doing.” Those feelings of friendship, support, and community are why theatre is so close to the heart of the performer. With the months of hard work and preparation that go into making a production, it’s hard not to form lasting bonds with the people around you. Even the backstage crew, the foundation of a musical production, has that same warm feeling of friendship with fellow cast and crew members.
The impacts of musical theatre go well beyond the stage. Performing is a great way to boost self-confidence and transport you out of your comfort zone. It can help build-up public speaking skills that will prepare you for any career in the future. You will also learn so much about yourself that you may have never realized before. Beyond that, involvement in musical theatre allows performers to express themselves in their own unique way.
If you’re looking for an opportunity to indulge in the beauty of theatre, look no further! Grab a couple of friends and head over to Woods Theatre on the days of November 1-12 and 15-19 to celebrate sixties culture in the upcoming production of Hair. It’s sure to be a great time! With the temperature getting colder, it would be a fun thing to do with friends, and a wonderful opportunity to support your fellow Hawks right from the audience.
Director of Hair and Specialist Professor in Music and Theatre arts Sheri Anderson shared “It is the quintessential rock and roll musical of the sixties. It was the first real opportunity for the younger generation to address, on a Broadway stage, things that were important to them such as the Vietnam War, racism, and the generation gap.” When asked about the expectations of the musical, Anderson replied, “I hope to initiate discussion about topics that are sometimes difficult to address, so much of the central message that is community and unity.”
Anderson also shared her feelings on the importance of musical theatre. “In musicals, you see a celebration of not only theatre, but other expressive art forms such as vocal music, instrumental music, and dance. It becomes not only one of the most human art forms, but also one of the most collaborative,” she said. Theatre is a great creative outlet for anyone searching for an escape from the day to day academic grind.
To all the potential performers out there, don’t be hesitant to showcase your talents for singing and acting. Get out on stage, face your fears, have fun, and break a leg! Just remember the benefits of being involved in theatre, such as self-expression, and how it transforms an ordinary cast into a close-knit family.
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