How to succeed in the musical--by trying really hard

By Meagan Pruitt

   The musical, “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” provides a chance for new actors and managers to make their debut in the theatre this Friday.
   Although she acted in “Honk” and “Guys and Dolls” in 6th and 7th grade, this is Bailey Sanders’ (‘16) first time participating in the theatre as stage manager.
   “It’s really different to see from the perspective of behind the scenes instead of acting,” Sanders said.
   In early December, it was clear to Sanders that she wanted to be on crew, but it wasn’t until Andrew Miller, chorus teacher and musical director, talked to her about how the musical needed a stage manager, that the idea began to take root. After learning what the position consists of, Sanders found the job interesting and fun.
   As an first-honor role student, the biggest challenge for her is balancing academics and the long hours of play practice. However, Sanders is looking forward to Friday and Saturday nights’ showings, which are open to all, and Friday’s showing for grades 6-12.
   “I am really looking forward to being able to see all the dances actually happen with all the costumes and makeup in front of an audience,” Sanders said, “because they’re looking really good right now.”
   Not only does Sanders love performing for musicals, but watching them as well, whether it’s school oriented or something fun to watch with family.
   “I love seeing how all the work that they put in over months has come together to make a big masterpiece that always seems to flow nicely,” Sanders said.
   However, Sanders is not the only new member of the musical this year. Margaret Lawrence (‘17), who has been absent from the theatre since 4th grade, has returned as the leading female role, Rosemary. She found it easy to return because Sanders was going to be the new stage manager and many of her friends were joining, such as Jane Ward (‘16).
   “I think it’s fun to sing at the top of your lungs, even if you’re bad,” Lawrence said. “I think it’s a way to not care what anybody else thinks.”
   Not only does she love to sing on and off the stage, but performing as well.
   “You can just do whatever you want,” she said. “I like performing with all my friends, and being able to express yourself.”
   The biggest struggle with being the lead role for Lawrence is juggling play practice, sports and academics. Because she is so involved in the school, she finds that she misses equal amounts of soccer and play practices.
   During the musical, her character, Rosemary, flirts with Finch, who is played by Tristan Johnson-Hodges (‘16).
   Since 5th grade, Johnson-Hodges has been performing in the musicals, and is this year’s leading male role. He has found it hard to play his character this year because he does not relate to him. While he is more of a shy, pleasant person, his character is goofy and aloof, according to Johnson-Hodges.
   “I’m slightly shy, so it just kind of helps me get over it, and it helps me perform,” he said. “Plus I’m into music, so it kind of helps me with that area as well as broadening my stage abilities.”

---