By Shelby Gerken

Here we go again! As students go back to school, it is time to start the production of the yearly fall musical. Summertime slipped through students’ fingers. 

This year’s musical is Mamma Mia, a bright and beloved jukebox musical featuring music from famous Swedish band, Abba.

“We start the process [of choosing the musical] about two to three weeks after the spring play is over.  Once we list musical possibilities, we order perusal scripts and vocal scores, then meet back and discuss. If we don’t agree on those possibilities, then we order more and so on,” choreographer Mrs. Michelle Delisi said. 

Vocal Director Ms. Madeline Reddel said that “due to Marian’s philosophies, choosing a production takes countless hours over a period of weeks.”

According to Delsi, directors have many factors to consider: budget, leading roles, cast size, type of show, approval of administration and audience appeal. 

“We consider our strengths and weaknesses as a music community. We also consider what best makes sense for an all-girls high school. For instance Newsies, a cast of mostly boys, wouldn’t work at Marian unless we changed the gender of the entire cast,” Reddel said. 

Auditions for the show are being held in Marian’s Performing Arts Center (PAC) on Aug 20 from 2-6 p.m. and Aug 21 from 4-6:30 p.m. Callbacks will be on Aug 22 at 4 p.m. 

“Auditions are everything! We need to see who we are working with. We put students in roles that are the best for them, and the production as a whole,” Reddel said.

“Every production is different in terms of roles available and descriptions of characters. Although we may have an idea of a student’s vocal and dancing abilities, sometimes we need to see students again (call backs) if we feel like we haven’t found someone to fit a certain character,” music director Mrs. Stephanie Dickes said. 

It takes a village to put on a musical, and the directors are encouraging involvement from all grades. Auditioning for the musical is a great way to add an extracurricular activity, get to know people, and have some fun! There are also other opportunities to get involved with the musical by joining the backstage crew. 

“[I am most excited for] the fun experiences the students will gain from learning the music, working on dances, and just growing in their friendships with each other.We hope to inspire students to grow as performers and leaders,” Dickes said.

 “Mamma Mia is a production Marian has never done before. It’s a high-quality musical with high-quality music. I’m excited to have fun together with students!” Reddel said. 

“Being involved in a Marian production is a lifetime experience, and one you will remember and talk about at your reunions! I would highly recommend if you are on the fence, step out of your comfort zone and audition! You have nothing to lose and auditions are fun!” Delisi said. 

Reddel encourages students to “Just show up to auditions! That’s the hardest part. Show up and have fun. Don’t be worried or stressed about being perfect or singing in front of others. Music is about showing up and having fun, especially this musical. Do it!”