Be sure to check out these drama students in their next production of Disney’s High School Musical in Frank Venables Theatre on April 16-18 at 7 pm, and a Saturday matinee at 2 pm. If you like high-energy singing and dancing, this performance is for you.
Lyonel Doherty photo
Drama students from SOSS will almost be playing true-to-life characters in their newest theatre production that is promising to be full of dynamic energy.
Approximately 35 youth are involved in Disney’s “High School Musical” playing at Frank Venables Theatre on April 16-18.
Drama teacher and director Alison Podmorow said it’s a play about high school and students trying to fit in.
The musical tells the story of school jock Troy Bolton and brainiac Gabriella Montez who join forces to star in the school musical. The two discover a love for singing and for each other, but as they attempt to break out of their cliques, their world and their school turn upside down.
The production stars Tony Abellan as Troy and Lauren McGibbon as Gabriella. Kaden Chernoff and Bethany Smith play the theatrical duo, Ryan and Sharpay Evans, who are most upset by the upheaval of the status quo.
Carlos Estrada plays Troy’s best friend Chad, and JoJo Abellan plays Taylor, the leader of East High’s science club.
Also featured in the cast are Tatum Brogan as Coach Bolton and Mikayla Podmorow as Ms. Darbus.
Chernoff told the Chronicle that it’s a challenge playing Ryan because, as a real student in Oliver, he’s not like the movie character who’s conceited and mean.
Chernoff also finds the dancing hard, but he’s learning a lot of moves.
“This musical is something our generation grew up with. Being able to play a character (from the original musical) is really exciting.”
McGibbon, who starred in the previous production, The Wizard of Oz, said she likes the fact they are playing something more modern, something they can relate to.
McGibbon said she too finds it difficult portraying a character that is so different from her own.
“I’m really outgoing and she (Gabriella) is shy, so it’s a challenge for me.”
McGibbon’s stage character is the new girl who is trying to fit in. She’s also in love with Troy.
Student choreographer Nimrit Toor is really in her element with this production because she is a dancer and also teaches dance.
“I grew up with High School Musical and loved it as a kid, so it’s really fun for me.”
Toor said the challenge for her is to ensure that the actors portray their characters convincingly. On top of all the acting, they have to sing and they have to dance, and it’s hard to get them to do the latter when they are not dancers.
“Confidence is a big part of it,” Toor said.
Alison said the production has tremendous energy with big dance numbers, adding that many people will be able to relate to the high school theme.
“It’s going to be a lively, upbeat rock and roll musical,” she reiterated.
She explained that a huge amount of time has gone into the production, which started casting in December and rehearsals in January.
The creative team also includes Lisa Ante (music director), Rod Kitt (technical director), Steve Podmorow (set design and construction), Nathan Woolard (assistant director) and Sarah Riordan (scenic artist).
Disney’s High School Musical is suitable for all ages. It shows at 7 p.m. on April 16, 17 and 18, and at 2 p.m. on the Saturday.
Advance tickets are available at the school. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.
Prices are $10 for students and $15 for adults.
The Saturday matinee features a special price of $5 and $10.
Lyonel Doherty
Oliver Chronicle
