Musical theater is in the air as students prepare for its annual Broadway Night Show.
Broadway Night is a tradition that has been going on for over eleven years. It pays tribute to Broadway musicals and numbers revolving around a set theme. This year’s production, headed by Chorus teacher Rita Gigliotti, will be held Jan. 17-18.
“It’s so much fun,” senior Robyn Freidin said, “ It’s a great way to meet new people, and to be on stage without being stressed.”
The idea of preforming on stage without being stressed is a key component to Broadway Night here at South Lakes. Gigliotti elaborated by expressing that she loves to see students transform into performers, go out on stage, and have their moment to shine.
“It gives them confidence so when they go out and audition for another show they have some tools that they can reach on,” Gigliotti said. “The number one thing that the kids grow in is confidence, confidence in their skill sets, in who they are as performers, and in being able to define who they are as a performer.”
Another key aspect of Broadway Night is the experience and opportunity to work with professionals in the field of musical performance.
“I have a professional choreographer who comes in to work with students on dance,” Gigliotti said. “I have some professional musicians and alumni who are currently studying music, music education or musical theatre who come back to coach and help.”
The musical is not just open to high school students, but also to upper elementary and middle school students. Fourth through eighth grade students from pyramid schools have an opportunity to perform. Several students, including Freidin, look forward to their participation.
In terms of details, Gigliotti did not reveal too much.
“Though we haven’t completely solidified it yet, it seems like the theme will be centered on the idea of time,” Gigliotti said. “You’ll definitely see something from “Newsies” and probably something from “The King and I.”
Though much still remains to be done, the overall feeling can be summed up by junior Emily Hanberry.
“You should come see it,” Hanberry said, “It’s really fun.”
