Robbie Crace and I played Emile and Nellie in 1976.
My friends Nancy and Anna and I attended Piketon High School's production of Bye Bye Birdie tonight. It brought back a lot of very cool memories from my high school musicals in 1976 (South Pacific) and 1977 (Showboat). Same excitement...same stage....same LONG scene changes....lol
When I was a junior in high school, I was cast in the role of Ensign Nellie Forbush in the great Rodgers and Hammerstein musical play, South Pacific. Prior to this, I knew NOTHING of musical theater. Showboat (senior year) was equally as satisfying when I played the role of Magnolia Hawks. Bob Frey was the choral teacher at Piketon then, and he encouraged me to join the HS chorus. I remember taking voice lessons from Mr. Frey (for free) after I was cast. I remember Jean Way teaching me some simple dance steps for "I'm in Love with a Wonderful Guy." I remember strangers coming up to me months and a few years afterward and telling me how much they loved the production.....the musical experience was such a memorable part of my high school years.
Playing that role in South Pacific helped me to discover just how much I loved music and the stage. Since that time, the passion has never left me. God was SO preparing me to serve him in the future. And now, whether it's organizing and encouraging the cool kids in River Pure, leading a musical production at River Valley, enjoying Broadway Across America shows with my girls, or being part of the worship team at church, I owe my love and connection to musical theater to those experiences in my own "High School Musical."
"I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair" (and send him on his way!) This was such a fun song--I REALLY had to wash my hair--yes, that's a towel in my hand...
Nellie's soliloquy after hearing that Emile may have been killed. (Dear Mr. Connett played the upright bass in the orchestra)
7 comments:
You were in two High School Musicals before I was born.
Before my parents even met...
Wow...
thanks, eli......i feel so.....young.
This story is priceless! You look so cute in your short shorts (Who wears short shorts? Julie P wears short shorts!). Anyway, you inspired me to get out my old photo album and look at my old plays (no musicals). Most of them were comedy's, imagine that. There's nothing better than that moment in the spotlight and you pass that gift on to all the kids at RVCC.
I miss my high school musicals!
julie!
thanks for the comment and assurance. i'm sure everything will make sense one day :)
i love all of the photos that you post.
miss you too...but i will see you at church on easter =)
heehee - your butt was even bubbly then!!! i wish i could have watched you in those musicals! i bet you were great!
Just goes to show you how important it is when a teacher shows interest. You're certainly passing it forward. A great story, and don't you wish those musicals had been taped?
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