Warrenton High School theater students take to the stage with “High School Musical,” adapted from a Disney Channel Original Movie this week. Opening night is Thursday, Nov. 20, at 7 p.m.
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Warrenton High School theater students take to the stage with “High School Musical,” adapted from a Disney Channel Original Movie this week. Opening night is Thursday, Nov. 20, at 7 p.m.
Isabella Hammerschmidt, taking on the lead female role of Gabriella Montez, said the show is all about typical high school kids trying to find their way in the complex puzzle of who belongs to what clique.
“My character meets the most popular boy while on vacation and finds out they go to the same school,” said Hammerschmidt. “They both audition for the musical together. It is not what jocks do and it’s not what brainiacs do. They throw the whole school off.”
Ethan Bolte is cast as Troy Bolton, the most talented basketball player at East High Wildcats.
“He’s charismatic, really good at basketball, and knows exactly what to say,” said Bolte. “He’s slick.”
Bolte has come a long way since his first performance as a seventh-grader, when he burst into tears on stage. “High School Musical” is his 10th production. He said theater has been pivotal in helping him with public speaking and gaining confidence.
French exchange student Mélina Ode is having the time of her life participating in a fun American musical. Ode’s hometown is Vizille, France, which boasts a “pretty castle.” She is singing a solo in French during the show and is part of the brainiac clique.
Her host sister, Sareyah Cullom, plays Sharpay, whose goal is to have everything — the boy, the lead role in the musical — whatever she can grab from others.
“I’m a diva,” she said. “I’m sassy. I get to throw a fit, which is really fun.”
Cullom is also the head costumer for the production. The brilliant blue dress she dons for the production is one of her creations.
Director Katie Harmon is new to Warrenton High School. She grew up in Springfield, attended the University of Central Missouri and taught at Camdenton High School for two years. She came on staff at Warrenton High School this year. Harmon said she feels very supported by the students and the community.
“I love my job and the effort the students put in makes my job easy,” said Harmon. “This show is all about breaking down barriers between friend groups. The kids jumped right into it. I’m excited for the community to see it.”
Harmon said 50 students make up the cast and crew. Her stage craft and tech theater students built all the sets. Joining her is the music director, Karen Howe.
Hammerschmidt sums up what theater means to many of the cast.
“I was shy as a freshman,” she said. “I really didn’t have many friends at first. I got the role of a tree in my first play. I learned to speak up and I made so many friends. I can’t stop doing this. I’ve personally grown up in theater.
Shows are Thursday and Friday, Nov. 20 and 21, at 7 p.m. On Saturday, Nov. 22, there will be a matinee at 2 p.m. and an evening show at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults; $8 for students; and $6 for seniors and military. Tickets may be purchased online at facebook.com/whstroupe4166 or at the door.
