Though only in the beginning processes, HHS’ spring musical is well on its way. After releasing its cast list in November for Thoroughly Modern Millie, rehearsals are in full swing. This year’s musical is based on a 1964 Julie Andrews film and has been highly rewritten. It is about a fun, silly girl going to New York in hopes of achieving her dreams, and the complications she faces in the process.
“The cast list was no surprise. I predicted almost every spot the day after callbacks,” senior actress Kaelyn Warne said, who will be starring as Mrs. Meers.
Getting back into the groove of things, the entire cast are all working together in choreography, music and acting, and are all looking forward to see what comes of this year’s musical.
“The choreography plays a big part in the musical. It gives a sense of the time period. I am excited to see what it looks like,” said Daelynn McCleve, who is also part of the ensemble.
Planning to stage a total of five performances as ticket sales are already underway, the students cannot wait to begin the performing process.
“I can’t wait to start staging the production. I’m anxious to start character development and to solidify my ‘politically-incorrect Chinese accent’,” Warne said.
Thoroughly Modern Millie originally opened in the Marquis Theatre on April 18, 2002. Thoroughly Modern Millie was nominated for 11 Tony Awards and won six in total, including best book of a musical, best choreography, and best orchestration. The musical continued to hit many different theaters around the world including London and a tour through the United Kingdom. Featuring upbeat music, mainly jazz and swing, and a massive amount of dancing, this year’s musical hopes to drastically pull away from Les Miserables‘ relatively sadder theme from last year.
“Thoroughly Modern Millie is way different than Les Mis. Just everything is different. This year’s musical is more of a comedy than Les Mis, but both are equally good,” said Heather Graham, another member of the ensemble.
“I can tell it’s going to be extremely funny just from the first few rehearsals. It’s such a change from last year’s musical, it will be good for everyone involved,” Warne said.
