Big stage. Big production. Big opportunity. Thats what is awaiting students at Richmond Christian School who are part of their musical production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
This years production runs May 15-17, and following the schools tradition, every second year the event is staged on the wide open spaces of the Gateway Theatre.
Sharon Johnsey, director of the show said the chance for the students to showcase their talents at such a large venue can be a defining moment in their school drama careers.
The story they selected also gave students a chance to really sink their teeth into a classic play that deals with prejudice based on outward appearances.
Since it was written by Victor Hugo in 1831, it is now in public domain, meaning the students were free to write their own dialogue and songs something that added another dimension to the production.
Its written by senior students from start to finish, Johnsey said proudly. And that was such an exciting process.
They decided which characters they wanted to highlight, what mannerisms they would have, and wrote them specifically with ideas in mind they could visualize.
Johnsey added the experience of getting on stage at Gateway is also enriched by the theatres staff.
They are not only great professionals who not only welcome us, but teach our students a lot of things, she said.
They take our students under their wing and show them backstage. They show them professionalism, and the art and the industry.
Show time for the three performances is 7 p.m. Tickets are $16 and are available at the box office, 6500 Gilbert Rd., or at gatewaytheatre.com.
