Have you ever been to a musical? I haven’t. I have always wondered what goes on and how they prepare for it. It must be a crazy process. I asked Whitmer Director of Theatre arts and Oliver! director  Mrs. Schreiner  some questions regarding the musical process and she answered some of my questions.

According to Emily Livengood (role: Orphan boys), “ The process is going amazing! We just started the dancing and it’s getting somewhere.  I never have done a play before so it’s a new, amazing experience. the audition process was scary but it was fun because I did it with my friends.”

How do you choose who gets what role? According to Mrs. Schreiner “Students audition by singing a song from the show and learning a dance as well. The Director, Choreographers, and Vocal Director decide who can play the roles based on their audition. We love casting people who are dedicated, passionate, and willing to learn!”

According to Riley Buchanan ( Oliver Twist ) “So the audition process is fairly easy! The directors make you feel very safe and comfortable throughout it and the people there are very welcoming. there are two days of auditions in case there are people who can’t go on a certain day. The director makes it very simple and fun!”

How do you deal with having two people that fit the same role?
According to Mrs. Schreiner “When two students fit the same role it can be tricky for us! This happens often because we have a lot of great students at Whitmer. We wish we could cast everyone. However, it comes down to GPA, attendance, and how much experience each student has had in Whitmer Theatre. Usually, those who have participated before are the most prepared to be cast in a lead role.”

I would say that getting ready for a musical is a battle. Amazingly, they can get ready and make a 2-hour show in 2 MONTHS.

Tickets on Sale April 21st!
Show Dates:

April 25 : 7pm

April 26: 7pm

April 27: 7pm

April 28: 2pm