Mention the name “High School Musical” and it will elicit shrieks and squeals from whatever group you happen to be in. Although there are always naysayers who are quick to point out that “high school’s not really like that,” it does nothing to quell the fierce devotion fans have for the show.
Why is that? Why does a 10 year-old tv movie that premiered on the Disney channel still evoke such devotion that at the mere mention of it people tend to burst out singing a medley of every song in the show? Probably because amongst the bright, cheery atmosphere and (admittedly) cheesy lines we find ourselves quickly recognizing each of the different clique groups. We know instantly where we would “belong” if we showed up at East High. Just the words “high school” (without the “musical” tacked on) quickly conjure up their own strong images…of rejection, fear, glory, or acceptance. Some of those feelings come from recent or distant memories. For the younger crowd they’re just a certainty that is still looming on the horizon.
No matter our age, we can all identify with having a friend, teacher, coach, or even parent not believe that we should be dreaming and shooting for the stars. They would prefer we play it safe, not strike out, lose the part, fall on our face, or make a fool out of ourselves. It’s very well-intentioned on their parts of course, but it doesn’t allow us to reach our full potential. We need to mess up, fail, lose, or fall flat on our face to grow, learn, and become the person we were destined to be. It’s hard to learn from perfection. And that’s why we identify so strongly with Troy and Gabriella…they didn’t know what would happen when they decided to show up for callbacks, they just knew they had to. Whether or not they got the parts wasn’t as important as what they learned by being willing to step out of their comfort zone and try something with no guarantee of success. That’s why “High School Musical” sticks with you: it encourages us all to dream and shoot for the stars even if our destination changes course several times.
On behalf of the entire cast and production crew we hope that this show encourages you to dream big dreams and not settle for the status quo where its safe, but to constantly raise the bar on all your expectations, dreams, and hopes.
-Noelle
