Stroud is diving below the waves and taking audiences straight to Bikini Bottom with this year’s production of “The SpongeBob Musical”.
It’s an all-grade extravaganza, with the cast and crew including students ranging from elementary school to high school. This was intentional by drama teacher Jessica Martinez.
“I’ve been wanting something to include the elementary school and the middle schoolers since I took the reins three years ago. So this was a good type of event,” she said.
She chose the musical after consulting with her drama students. After doing a play last year, she wanted to bring a musical to the stage; however, her kids said they didn’t want to do a musical. Until one student said they would sing if it were SpongeBob. They then began naming characters they wanted to play, and things progressed from there.
There are more than 40 students taking part, from being on stage to doing tech and stage management. But it takes a lot to put on a production of this size.
“So many groups support the theater. Our pom dancers make an appearance twice in the show. We also have the band and vocal teachers involved,” the drama teacher said.
“Art classes were involved as well. It has been truly inspiring to watch so many people come together to support this program and these kids who have put in so much hard work.”
Martinez said the Photo/Emily Kalka “phenomenally talented adults” who have stepped up to help have been her saving grace, including the music director, Mrs. Anderson. She’s also received help from Jeremy Smart, who has helped train the backstage and soundbooth crews, plus helped bring to life their visions for various props and technologies, with the help of his son.
Martinez said that she’s loved getting to see the students in a different light. For some, it’s the first time they’ve been on state, and their performances are going to surprise people.
“I am excited for the audience to see the standout moments and props that have taken a lot of time to put together. There are so many little standout moments for each of our actors, it is going to be a great show,” she said.
She added that she hopes the audience appreciates the overall message of the musical, which is to learn to accept people and their strengths instead of focusing on their flaws. She also hopes they enjoy the heart and soul that the students have poured into it.
For the kids, they hope for many things, among them that the audience enjoys the show and laughs.
Student Director Destiny Smith said she hopes people coming to watch learn that getting involved in drama and theater can be a very rewarding and fun experience. She added that the best part of being in the musical is watching everyone’s hard work pay off.
Savannah Mitchell, who plays Mr. Crabs, said she has loved diving into her character, including his funny one-liners. She hopes the audience sees that everyone is different and important in their own ways.
Senior Jordan Fisher-Charkowski said she’s enjoyed getting to tap dance for the last time on stage, though it’s been one of the most challenging parts. She plays Squidward and has to walk (and dance) with an extra pair of legs. Regardless, she’s enjoying the show.
“It is my last year of high school. So, I wanted to make a final memory before I go to college,” she said.
Isla Arballo, who plays Sandy, said she’s enjoying getting to play a lead for the first time with her best friend. What does she hope people in the audience will walk away learning?
“That being a theatre kid isn’t weird, but a lot of fun,” she said.
“SpongeBob The Musical” will be on Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 23 at 2 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center at Stroud High School.
Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for kids. They can be bought at the high school or at the door of the performance.