Dozens of Berlin’s dedicated theater students will have spent about ten hours each week, for nearly three months, working to perfect their execution of “Seussical”’s debut on Nov. 13. Many began this process over the summer, under guidance from Musical Director Abbe Lane.
“I started probably a week before school started,” junior Abby Shattuck said. “Rehearsals are normally from 5-7:30 p.m., so I dedicate that time twice a week, plus an hour or two on the weekends.”
Each actor’s routine is different, as rehearsals are often grouped by characters who share scenes or songs. A unique aspect about this year’s performance, though, is the inclusion of eighth-grade students.
“My brother inspired me. He was always a lead in the musical, so I wanted to try, too,” eighth-grader Ava Pierstorff said.
Sibling inclusion runs strong in this year’s performance, as many performers have younger siblings involved.
“Garrett’s in it, so I decided I wanted to help, and it’s been fun,” eighth-grader Brenna Lundt, sister of senior Garrett Lundt, said.
Unable to take on a lead role, middle schoolers busy themselves backstage and as ensemble characters.
“Surprisingly, Ensemble is called to rehearsal more frequently because they’re in almost every scene as background characters,” Shattuck said.
Despite age gaps, a sense of community is built between all students.
“It feels really good to help out. I feel so supported by the high schoolers,” Pierstorff said.
Lead roles and backup performers are important, yes, but it is behind the curtains where the story comes to life. From changing sets to designing props, many things are going on at every second of each performance.
“We are in charge of moving things on and off stage during the musical,” Brenna, who works backstage as a crew member, said. “It’s exciting because we’ve (eighth-graders) never been able to do this before.”
Though they were never actually cast, parents of these performers have also found themselves in roles regarding the show. One parent, Sarah Gerber, has been part of the high school productions for years. “Seussical” will be her eleventh show.
“It is my job to make Ms. Lane’s vision for the characters come alive,” Costume Designer Sarah Gerber said. “It is fun to see the musical come together. They start with an empty stage and end with an amazing production. Every year you think ‘this is not going to come together’ and then the students pull it together and put on an amazing show.”
Students may be intimidated to join, letting stage fright get in the way of performing. Shattuck has witnessed different ways people overcome these challenges.
“It is so much fun, even for people who don’t like to sing or dance, there’s always backstage or stage crew, you can help out with lighting or sound. It’s so much more than just standing there to sing by yourself. That’s what I was always scared of, having to sing solo lines,” Shattuck said. “I’d definitely say to join. We need the numbers, and it’s a lot of fun.”
For any theatrical production, skills from all areas are required. Many staff members, students, and alumni encourage all interested students to chase their thespian ambitions.
“I was afraid to audition for musicals when I was in high school. I remember going to tryouts and leaving because I was too nervous when I was a freshman,” Gerber said. “It is a regret I have to this day. If you have any interest, don’t be afraid to try out next year. Come check out the musical this year…”Seussical” is super fun!”
