Big Plans for Musical Theater

The Musical Theatre class here at Carter has big ideas for the production of their show, Meet Me in St. Louis, this November 11^th, 13^th, and 14^th. The show was originally a movie starring Judy Garland; taking place in Chicago before the 1904 World Fair and focusing on 4 sisters who are attempting to prevent their family from moving to New York.  The department is in the process of casting for the show, yet the production is already full of life. The show was picked specifically for its choral aspect. The songs, described by director Mr. Webb as legato or flowing, aided in this production selection as they allowed room for musical growth amongst the cast members. The members of the department are also beginning to work on choreography for the show. When asked why he chose this production, Mr.Webb responded candidly, “I wanted to do a classic and I wanted to do a show that featured really good singing.” Musicals have tended to be a tradition in the department. Last year they produced Into the Woods, a musical that combines multiple storybook fairy tales. They have also done a production of Beauty and the Beast. The reason for this tradition is that musicals incorporate more aspects of a production than a play. Tradition also increases excitement for the production. The Department is planning multiple events prior to the production including multiple concerts and a bundt cake fundraiser courtesy of the company Nothing Bundt Cakes. The production also has a variety of members and skills. In an interview with Carlie Cole, a Junior cast member, she talked about the important skills needed for acting. She took a moment to specify that you don’t have to be the best at singing or acting, but it’s important to try your best at whatever you do for the show. In appreciation of the importance of the arts department, Carlie stated, “Art is important, and Art is alive here.”