Sara Conroy, Editor
@sconroycourant
On November 1, the NCHS theater department will premiere the underclassmen production of Shrek. Shrek the musical follows an ogre who lives all alone in his swamp, leading a life of isolation. He embarks on a journey where he will meet new friends that will last him a lifetime. Many people are aware of the theater performances that go on throughout the year, but they may not know what goes on behind the scenes and the upperclassmen that allow each production to run smoothly.
Alex Montano, the production stage manager and the director’s second in command, plays a huge role in keeping things in order. “My role is to run rehearsals, make sure everyone’s there and that everyone stays on top of things,” she said. “I’m also in charge of backstage: what the crew does, where the cast should be, and the set pieces that need to be moved.”
Alex has a strategy for helping underclassmen. “High school theater can be a big change for the underclassmen because we enforce self independence and responsibilities. In middle school, they had adults to help them do things, but now they build their own set pieces and have to make sure they stay on top of things,” she said. “I love them all but sometimes I think people need to learn from their mistakes. I try to address the issue so they can improve.”
Ethan Jones, a current junior and actor who will be starring in the underclassman production decided to take charge and help out. “I will be the king and the pipipper, two very small roles,” Ethan said. “I decided to help out due to a lack of freshmen and sophomore boys in the theater program. Dee has given so much to the people of this program so I thought this was one of the ways I could give back.”
Ethan is ready to help the underclassmen who are new to the program and may need his guidance. “Sometimes it can be hard for the freshman because high school theater is a bigger commitment, which entails a lot more work and sacrifice. Part of being an upperclassman is setting an example and being a model for others to follow,” Ethan said.
Ethan is excited to take on a leadership role. “Being a leader means if you can help you should help. For example, if someone is having trouble with something, like their lines or choreography then you should do your best to help and make them feel as comfortable as possible,” he said. “It’s important you take initiative while also being careful not to abuse your power. So I try my best to balance those two aspects which means still being a friend to everyone but also trying to be a leader.”
Jackson LaMorte, a junior who will be starring as Shrek’s dad and will help out on the crew, says that tech, a time when the cast and crew get together to construct the set is one of his favorite parts of theater. “Every Saturday we have tech, where everyone in the program gets together and builds the set and makes costumes and props etc. I’ve really enjoyed building the set for Shrek because it’s given me an opportunity to get to know some of the underclassmen and to spend a little quality time with them,” Jackson said. “I also really love building elements of the set, for example Shrek’s doorstep. I’m excited to move furniture onto the stage.”
Dee Alexander, the head director of the theater department, thinks that helping out with the underclassmen show is essential in creating bonds and a strong connection between the new member of the program and the upperclassman. “The upperclassmen help make sure everyone is on task and they’re focused while still making sure that everyone is having fun. Yes, this is very hard work, and that’s why they chose to do it, but they also love it and want it to be a great time for everyone,” Dee said. “We also want to create that connection and that bond between the upperclassmen and underclassmen. They don’t really get to see them in the fall until the winter show, so it’s a good way for them to get to know each other and also respect each other.”
