The Spring Musical this year was “James and the Giant Peach”, based off of the book by Roald Dahl. The show tells the story of a young boy, James, who is forced to live with his atrocious aunties, Spiker and Sponge, after losing his parents. He soon discovers a magical potion that turns a dead tree into a blooming giant peach tree. James soon finds himself inside the giant peach and on an adventure with five human sized bugs, all with their own unique personalities. They are soon on a trip across the Atlantic, but things take a twist when they finally land in New York City.
Megan Stefanacci played the titular role of James. Other principle characters included Taylor Landau as Aunt Spiker, Jada Weedon as Aunt Sponge, Madison Cancro as Ladahlord, Dillon Groh as Grasshopper, Tori Reich as Ladybug, Gavin Springer as Earthworm, Calista Colbert as Spider, and Samantha Jordan as Centipede. The ensemble was composed of Angela Hickey, Zach Alseika, Gianna Chuisano, Anna Nardelli, Fiona Cinquegrana, Isabella Stevens, Mary Schuld, Kayla Latendresse, Jenny Bassi, Nico Landino, Angy Audelo-Riano, Erin Doran, Maria Wong, and Samantha Golding. The show was directed by Reid Henderson, choreographed by Christine Baglivio, and musically arranged by Brian Krajcik. Julia Benol also worked as the student director for the production.
The show took place on March 1, 2, and 3 at the Spring Lake Theater. This was the first time in over four years that the show has been performed here. With the new venue, students had access to new equipment, more space, and a more professional setting. Everyone was incredibly grateful for the upgrade in venue as it gave everyone on both cast and crew more creative freedom as well as exposure to a newer, more technical setting.
Rehearsals began when students returned from Christmas Break. Everything was in full swing as the cast learned the dances, songs, and scenes to prepare for the show. Reid Henderson, who made his St. Rose directorial debut with the fall drama, guided actors through their roles and helped everyone give more meaningful performances. Christine Baglivio worked as the choreographer for the show and taught students not only the dances but also how to perform them well and showcase their talents. Brian Krajcik returned for his third year of musical direction and helped students showcase their vocal talent throughout the show. Julia Benol assisted during rehearsals by suggesting ideas, taking notes, and recording videos so students could watch and practice the choreography at home. During the show, Julia was in charge of all of the musical cues backstage.
The Spring Musical was a huge success with audiences raving for weeks after performances. This show is the first of many changes and upgrades coming to the music and performing arts department at the school over the next year. St. Rose is working to put more funding and work into the arts department to make it a more educational and enjoyable experience for all involved. “James and the Giant Peach” entertained audiences and showed the first signs in a new and improved arts department.