There’s nothing better than getting your head in the game and working with your friends to put on a spectacular show. On Tuesday, February 28 the Lake Central High School Theatre Company held its final dress rehearsal of “High School Musical On Stage,” and to say the kids are eager about their upcoming performances would be an understatement. Excitement hung in the air as kids did final costume checks and song run-throughs.
For the past two years, Lake Central hasn’t been able to hold a full show because of COVID-19. “High School Musical On Stage” will be the school’s first true show since the start of the pandemic, and everyone, both students and staff, are thrilled to be back doing what they love.
“We’re just really happy to be back and not have to worry about masks and all of that. I think this is a way for everybody both in the show and in the audience to celebrate getting back to normalcy. It’s just going to be so much fun,” said director Pamela Neth.
Since this would be the first full show since the pandemic, Neth knew the show would have to be something simple, but big. “High School Musical” was a perfect choice that everyone was more than on board with.
“There’s been so much buzz about this show–all the kids have been super excited about it since the very beginning of the school year. I asked the kids what they would like to perform and this was their number one choice. It’s exciting to see them be so passionate,” said Neth.
There are so many reasons why the kids are so passionate about this year’s show. One of the biggest reasons is that it allows them to bring a story they’ve loved since they were little kids to life.
“It’s a story that we’ve all grown up with and everybody’s familiar with it and knows all the songs and characters, so I think it will just be super fun. I hope everyone enjoys it,” said senior Olivia Javczymski, who plays Sharpay.
The show also sends a lot of good messages about not being afraid to be yourself–a message almost all high school students, and even most adults, can relate to. Senior Justin Kponte spoke excitedly about his character, Troy, and how much he’s learned from him.
“I like Troy because I find him super relatable. When he’s around his friends he feels like he has to act a certain way, but when he’s with Gabriella he gets to be a little more vulnerable. I feel like a lot of people can connect to that. He’s just a sweetheart,” said Kponte.
Most importantly, though, the show is just a lot of fun and a great way to bring everyone together.
“I feel like this is just a very interactive show. Everyone’s on stage a lot and we have a lot of really cool dance numbers and the set is super awesome. There’s just so much to enjoy,” said Senior Ava Wilson who plays Taylor.
Ultimately, all the students are incredibly grateful to take part in such an amazing experience. They’re even more grateful, though, for all the wonderful people who have helped make this show possible.
“I definitely want to thank all of our awesome directors. They all put so much work into this. Ms. Schneider took all of our senior banner pictures and that took a lot, so really, just a huge thanks to all of them for everything,” said Senior Ellie Planert who plays Gabriella.
Performances of “High School Musical On Stage” will be held on Thursday, March 2, and Friday, March 3 at 7 p.m. There will also be two performances on Saturday, March 4 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. The kids are eager to show everyone how hard they’ve been working, and their passion alone makes the show well worth the watch. So, come on out and break the status quo at a performance you won’t forget.
“This is just so special for us. It’s our last show here and I know it’s going to be a great one,” said Kponte.
To learn more about Lake Central High School, visit https://lcsc.us/.