This year I was given the opportunity to be a part of the cast of You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown. I am a junior at Colonia High and the character I played was Pig Pen, a nonconformist, perpetually dirty but kindhearted little boy. Being a part of this cast has been one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences of my life. I NEVER expected to enjoy this experience as much as I did. I have never been one to take part in an activity that requires me to perform night after night in front of an auditorium full of people. My stage fright prevented me from doing anything performance-related. However, taking part in this year’s musical has allowed to break out of my shell and be willing to perform in front of many people without any problems. My confidence has been boosted tremendously due to the encouragement of my awesome fellow cast members and the amazing staff.
Mrs. Stephanie Platko is a phenomenal director and she puts her all into the show each year. Without her confidence in my ability, I would not have been able to do the show. The cast has been my family for the past few months and now that the show is over, not seeing them everyday is difficult to adjust to.
The musical has been an absolutely enlightening journey. It has been stressful and difficult at times, but in the end, it was all worth it when we heard the laughter and applause of the audience.
However, there are some disadvantages to being a part of the musical. For one, the schedule is very strenuous and it is quite difficult to maintain any more activities or sports besides the musical itself. I strongly recommend you do everything in your power to attend EVERY rehearsal. It’s difficult to catch up on any missed staging, music, or choreography from the rehearsal you missed. If you are sick, it is best to stay home and skip so that the other actors/actresses do not get sick, but make sure to email the stage manager(s) and Platko so that the staff is aware that you are unable to attend due to illness. However, if you are not sick, attending all rehearsals is critical.
Despite the difficulties, anyone who can sing and dance even just a little should audition for the musical. I can guarantee that, besides the busy schedule, it will be 100% worth it. Even if you don’t get a principle role, ensemble is just as fun. An ensemble is just as necessary to a musical as a lead role is and I’m not just saying that. Take it from someone who was in ensemble. I strongly recommend that anyone with the willingness and aptitude to audition for the musical because it will truly be one of the most memorable and enjoyable high school experiences that one can be a part of.
