On April 12–14, students and volunteers at Niverville High School presented their first-ever full-length musical since the construction of the new school in 2019. The group’s production of High School Musical Jr. played to sold-out audiences all three nights and received standing ovations from the enthusiastic crowds.
Janelle Malech, drama teacher at NHS, had the original idea to put on a musical and directed the students in their efforts. She said the students were very excited to perform for their community. Many of them were already familiar with High School Musical, which made it a particularly fitting choice.
“High School Musical seemed like a good fit because we had students very excited about this musical, particularly our two Grade 12 leads,” says Malech. “We wanted to pick a musical that would get kids excited to participate and that is known enough to entice the community to come watch.”
The show involved a complex network of students, staff, and volunteers to pull off. It drew a total of 33 student performers, and dozens more taking part with the stage crew, set painting, hair and make-up, and set building.
Choreography was a major aspect of this particular musical and the intricate numbers were tricky to tackle, but a talented crew stepped up and brought each energetic number to life.
The choreographers included teacher Jennifer Hashmein and students Nick Johnson, Emmeryson Fixe, and Brittany Collette.
“They really put together amazing choreography and we couldn’t wait to show it off,” Malech says.
Parents, along with local professionals, rallied to help as needed. Malech specifically noted how much community support went into the production.
“Many, many parents have also helped out with set building, providing snacks, and planning our after party,” she says. “I think there are 11 teachers actively involved as well.”
She says that the community support helped build confidence in students, resulting in energetic and confident performances.
The shows even featured a “talkback” element, giving the audience a chance to discuss the play with the director, cast, and crew. Many questions were asked and students fielded them with competence and charisma.
Malech says that the supportive team atmosphere helped everyone to have a great time and thrive throughout the challenges they faced in putting on such a large and complicated production.
“We have a fantastic team here,” she says. “Everyone is so willing to help out, and our admin have been very supportive. The biggest challenge was getting everyone to rehearsal, as kids are super busy these days! But they have been committed and worked hard. Having two snow days the week before the show was not ideal, but we pushed through!”
The organizers also acknowledged the challenge of building a stage big enough to hold a large cast, along with the sets and on-stage props. Malech notes that the school was not built for this, but art teacher Tony Clark put in a lot of effort, along with a team of volunteers, to make it work.
The large audience made an impact on the students, too.
“As good as it sounds and looks without an audience, it always comes to life better than ever once in front of people,” Malech says. “The students were excited to hear the laughs, and most of all to showcase all the impressive singing and dancing!”
