Beaver Dam High School’s fall musical Once Upon A Mattress debuts this week in the high-school auditorium. Students have been working for weeks to ensure the performances are a success. On stage you will see many talented performers, but there are many non-stage roles including stage crew, lights, hair, makeup, and pit orchestra that play an integral role in the show’s success.
“There’s a lot that happens backstage and work that goes into the show,” said senior Colleen McGuire, who’s managing her third performance at BDHS. As stage manager, McGuire works closely with the show’s directors and acts as a liaison between them and the rest of the stage crew. “I get to make sure everyone knows what needs to be taken on and off,” McGuire stated as she explained her role.
Senior Jeffry Phoumyvong is a member of the pit orchestra for the play. “We get the same nerves,” Phoumyvong admitted in regards to performance night in comparison to the actors. As a member of the pit, they practice 2-3 times a week to ensure their pieces are correct. “In orchestra, we focus on the conductor, but in pit we have to focus on the performers too.” This is Phoumyvong’s third musical show at BDHS.
The show dates are Thursday, November 3rd through Saturday, November 5th at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, November 6th at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available at Rechek’s Food Pride and Piggly Wiggly. Tickets are also be available at the door.
