by Xan Marsella '14
It is three o’clock on a school day. The bell rings, signifying the end of the day. Most Tabor students stroll back to their dorm to throw on athletic clothes and get to the Fish on time for sports practice or conditioning. However, I go back to my dorm, throw on some leggings and a t-shirt and walk down to Hoyt for a two-hour rehearsal.
Ever think it is hard to remember a couple of vocabulary words for an English quiz? Imagine having to remember an entire play’s worth of lines, blocking, and choreography, all while staying on top of schoolwork. It seems like an unimaginable task for some, but for any student in the musical, it is just called the winter season.
This is my third main stage play with Tabor, and I have to say, winter musical has always been my favorite time of year. Sports are fun, and Black Box plays are a cool experience too, but there is something exhilarating about standing in front of a packed auditorium, performing the same choreographed dance moves with dozens of other kids.
The big dance numbers are really what make the main stage shows amazing, which is why I was thrilled that I got a part that would lead one of the main dance numbers this year. My role is the reporter, Gloria Thorpe, who is always trying to get the big scoop for her next newspaper article. In “Shoeless Joe From Hannibal, MO,” my character is singing to all of the baseball players about her next article. It is a really energetic number with complex dance moves and acrobatics, which is what makes it so much fun.
The entire cast worked so hard to learn all of the songs and lines. I loved spending every afternoon with such a dedicated group of people all working towards the common goal of making the show the best it could be.
The Winter Musical Damn Yankees was a big hit! The show last played on the Fireman stage in 1987!
