Matilda Jr. is our school’s long-awaited spring musical, and the cast couldn’t be more excited. They truly embody the spirit of theater. I had the opportunity to sit in on a rehearsal to observe and comment on the process.
This year’s spring musical seems to have a wide range of actors and actresses. Of the current middle schoolers, many grew up participating in the musical from fourth or even third grade, rising in the ranks of roles. Though now, there has been a reset with a majority of third and fourth-grade students cast. Many of the actors have a burgeoning love for the craft and have experience from the lower school musical Where the Wild Things Are last year. The casting is truly a “miracle,” as said by an unnamed castmate, “everyone loves the show and their part in it.”
Musical theater is a wonderful mixture of music, dance, and acting. Many of our cast members play instruments, dance, or cheerlead. Our Mrs. Trunchbull, played by seventh grader Aaran, is in the band and plays viola, which adds to his musicianship. Ariana, an ensemble member, is a gymnast and pianist. Fortunately, the BASIS Independent Brooklyn music curriculum ensures that most people play an instrument even if they are not able to outside of school.
Our actors truly love their craft. In their words, “it’s an adventure.” The cast loves being in front of the crowd, and the more experienced performers mentor younger performers, and simply the joy of being on stage. They each have a unique story for coming to love theater and a unique aspect they themselves love most, but they move as one to put on the art for us, theater-goers.
Aside from the cast, our school also has a wonderful creative team. Ms. Weathers is contributing set pieces, and Ms. Pfaffenbach is our costume designer. Ms. Davis is the conductor, teaching music, and Ms. Markel, the director, is the glue between it all. The set is not yet being incorporated, but costumes, including rainbow mustaches and jazz vests, are being curated with the cast.
Tuesday’s rehearsal was mainly focused on the choreography, conducted by Ms. Tilly. I saw the incessant kicklining from last year’s Shrek Jr. reappear. Funnily enough, the third and fourth graders were more coordinated than the sixth and seventh graders from the musical last year. Despite the choreographic focus of rehearsal, there was plenty of singing as well. The cast was very excited to showcase their skills and combine their characters’ personas with the choreography. There was so much laughter as I watched how they put the show together all by themselves.
We are clearly in for a ride in May. Though the cast is younger, they have the dedication to learn and mentorship from the veteran actors.
