Bob Jones tackles Broadway
The Bob Jones High School Musical Theatre will perform "Guys and Dolls" April 7-9.
Broadway is coming to Bob Jones High School April 7-9.
The largest cast the school has ever seen will take on the Tony winning musical “Guys and Dolls.”
“It’s a huge undertaking,” said Mary Davis, co-faculty director of the program.
The romantic comedy is set in New York City and will feature contemporary scenery and performances by 52 Bob Jones students.
More than 150 students auditioned during the open casting call in September, making it the largest turnout ever for the school.
“It’s not just one part of the school, it’s everyone,” said Mark Parson, a junior and co-producer of the production.
Rehearsals began in January, and students are currently rehearsing daily from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
However, students are not allowed to neglect their grades due to production demands.
“We hold them to a high standard,” Davis said.
She said all students must maintain a “C” average, along with passing all of their core classes.
“It’s more stringent than athletics,” said Dwayne Craft, co-faculty director of the program.
In addition to maintaining their grades, students and their parents must sign an “actor’s contract” which promises they will remain drug, tobacco and alcohol free.
Davis said the faculty directors act as “facilitators,” allowing the students to take the lead and handle all aspects of the production themselves.
Kendall Kingsford is a junior and is serving as this year’s student choreographer.
“It’s been stressful, but I think it’s a wonderful leadership opportunity,” Kingsford said.
The lifetime dancer, who was forced to limit her dancing after being diagnosed with hip disease, appreciates the opportunity choreographing gives her.
“It’s an awesome outlet because I can’t dance anymore,” she said.
Show times for the performance will be at 7 p.m. during April 7-9 with a matinee at 2 p.m. on April 9. Tickets will be available at the Bob Jones Media Center or at the box office. For more information, call 256-722-2547.
