Musical Revue Hits a High Note

The production, entitled “An Invitation,” took place in the Experimental Theater and showcased tunes from a variety of musicals to tell the stories of individuals who had been invited to a dinner party.  

 

The hour-and-a-half production included 21 songs that ranged from ballad to upbeat, and drew from such popular shows as “If/Then,” “The Band’s Visit” and “Finding Neverland.” Now in its second year, the revue is an opportunity for students interested in musical theater to develop soloist skills and is ideal for those whose time commitments may preclude them from participating in the mainstage musical.

 

The revue’s director, George Croom, who is also a private music instructor at Masters, shared that the show’s creative process gave students agency and freedom that isn’t necessarily available to them in a typical musical theater production. In fact, he says, after getting to know each actor’s strengths, Croom presented the student with six songs to consider singing; each student chose one of the six to practice and perform. “By giving them a voice in the material they choose to do, they become more invested in creating their show,” Croom said. “The entire experience is about discovery. It is a privilege to help these students find their voice.”