It is a long lasting tradition for Gibson Southern High School to put on a spring musical. The 2020 musical is Matilda. Students who were interested in the musical auditioned on December 10th and 11th. Students auditioned for roles of main characters, supporting characters, dancers and ensemble. Two weeks after the audition, participants received their roles and began to rehearse for the upcoming practices.
“I was not expecting to get the part Matilda at all, but it is such a huge honor,” sophomore Abby Scheller said. “I’ve watched so many Gibson Southern productions and could not wait for my turn on the stage. I have faced challenges and had many great moments so far and I can not wait to develop and grow into this character.”
Rehearsals began on the first day back from break, January 6. Everyday has set scenes that are to be reherased. Only those who are in these scenes are required to attend these practices.
There are work days that are held on some Saturdays. These are days where students and parents come in to make costumes. Actors also attend accent workshops and dance workshops during these times.
“Week 2 of Matilda rehearsals was full of fun and laughter as we brought in a larger group, Matildas classmates,” senior Jazlynn Cates said.
Rehearsals last for 10 weeks. So far the cast has been working on 3 to 4 scenes. Matilda performances will be held from March 13 to March 15. Tickets can be bought on gshstheatre.com, and go on sale the week before show.
“I believe this musical will be a hit because when you have a story like Matilda that multiple generations know, a lot more people would want to come see it,” director and theatre teacher Adam Bledsoe said. “The theme of this story has to do with reading and empowerment with your imagination. Matilda shows that imagination is important to both young children and adults. You will see all this unfold on stage and why we chose Matilda as our 2020 musical.”