It's hard to believe that this production marks the 4th year for GLC Performing Arts Musical Theater. Four years ago we started with many of the Juniors and Seniors you see in this production this evening, performing in and lighting scenes from Hairspray and West Side Story in our first choreographed musical scenes production. That first year we were still performing in an industrial complex, doing choreography on risers!
The next year saw us doing R & H's Cinderella--our first fully staged and costumed production, complete with dresses that transformed on stage, giant food props and a gorgeous staircase and garden set painted by a talented art student.
Last year we completed our first production in our new venue and on a true stage, this time adding complicated lighting and sound effects, and choreographed moving sets on wheels. At one point we had 6 flats rolling around the stage at the same time!
This year our goal was clear from the beginning--let's use this space and go vertical!! And thanks to our production team and Mrs. Evola and Mr. Ron Harris, that's exactly what we did!
This year also breaks the record for the number of mics we have access to and are using--18 lavalier and lapel mics used simultaneously. One of the biggest challenges in our new space has been the very 'wet' sound created by the hard surfaces and vast space of the gym. We are hoping one day to mitigate that issue, but for now we are doing our best and are very thankful to our sound crew for helping us overcome it as much as possible.
Every year is bittersweet as we witness the culmination of our senior's talents and then have to send them off to bigger and better things. This year hurts a bit more than most as we say farewell to the majority of the students who started with us four years ago. To say that we will miss them is an understatement, and it's pretty near impossible to say how proud we are of the growth and maturity they have shown in their academic and musical careers. To have been a part of their journeys, and to have had the chance to guide their talents is our great honor. We will miss you so very much!!
Each year for the past four years our production team and students have made huge strides in our production and performance abilities, thanks to the vision and commitment of our production teachers, and thanks to the committment of our students and parents. We all know the sacrifices involved in productions of this size--they are VAST. There is a reason most high schools in our area do not produce full musicals.
However, in the GLC VAPA department, we BELIEVE in the educational value of this experience for our students, in the building of skill this opportunity provides, and the experience of telling a GREAT STORY. And so as we enjoy together the culmination of a year's hard work, we look forward to the next and what it will bring! Thank you for being here and being a part of this moment with us tonight!
Enjoy the Show!!
