PAVEing a Blog

I was asked this several times over the course of the last few weeks.

In the last few months, I have worked with students in deep diving the impacts and status of school libraries in our state of Delaware. I have noticed that in this topic, student’s voices have been left out of decisions made, as well as the organization and existence of school libraries in our state.

Students have pointed this out to me. They asked me how often they are asked to have a role in the role of the school library when I ask the questions. These statements they have reinforced and emphasized have stood out to me from talking to students from many different districts in Delaware. Their concerns have hit a point where they are asking for some representation in their statements:

“It is ironic that parents that say “Our children” (our is specific to specific children and the parents that say) OUR kids/children are for kids other than me.”

It is so important that those people that say “THEY need to be comfortable” does not include me.

School is supposed to challenge you and should make you uncomfortable with topic – isn’t that how we learn?

“Kids should be learning about things achy and bad sometimes – so they can learn how to talk about it and being in a space and learn how to navigate that and deal with the feelings that come up. I don’t get that chance at home.”

“English has killed my interest in reading.”

“Classes are in our library but no one has ever told me if I can check out a book or how I can check out a book.”

We will begin a series of podcasts and posts that deal with the rising decrease in literacy with the loss of school librarianship in Delaware, with students at the nucleus of this historical issue.

Check back here in a few days to see below some interesting data that students have helped uncover as we break down the history of school librarianship in districts across the state and what student are wanting.

…the Lion Sleeps Tonight… as I am sure many a cast member following a GREAT production. But we are not even close to looking back at what and who made this such a great run – but before we get to specific names, let’s talk BEHIND the scenes.

This, being the next to last post regarding WHS’s Tarzan the Musical, one must not overlook the amazing individuals listed below:

Jolene Workman It goes without saying, it is hard for me to imagine Jolene Workman without also picturing Danielle Jones, so instead of separating – together- this dynamic duo offers year after year, the chance for students to push, pull, and recreate themselves in so many ways – that the spaces needed to fill their lives are indeed filled. I have seen MANY arts programs in school districts, in neighboring states, literally dropped. OR, individuals tracking the arts but not motivational wajoo (my term) being given, simply going through the motions and not much intrinsically happening. The countless hours, the countless levels of commitment, it is what what makes WHS a standout in so many ways – for those willing to take on the challenges that Ms. Workman and Ms. Jones set before them to help them grow in ways they never dreamed of.

Tammy Williamson In and out of school, it is difficult to image anything in the arts without Ms. Williamson. One could only hope and dream of the knowledge she contains and the “I get it” of what a community and school can do when working together. Hands down, without her insight, support, knowledge, humor and creativity, there would be an empty spot in WHS and the arts. Like peanut butter and jelly, bread and butter, no doubt her gifts she consistently gives to WHS grow and grow and grow.

MidSouth Audio – Having seen the results of their partnerships with schools from Seaford to Woodbridge, we are thankful to have such supporting experts ” in the jungle.” I can’t say enough about how productions sounds as if they have been pulled off a hundred times before thanks to MidSouth Audio.

Jacob Bollinger – It is ALWAYS AWESOME to have WHS actively involved in ALL elements of a production to let people be aware there is more than meets the eye- but Jacob helps keep our eyes focused on what is right before us for sure! Again, being able to continue all through the years at WHS and be such a contributing member of a production says MUCH about a program, and I know everyone is grateful for Jacob being the “Eye in the sky!”

Marissa Gilinsky – It is a very fortunate aspect to always have a faculty member be a a part, somehow, some way, in productions. The more, the more of a statement there is in what it means to be a part of the WHS body – and we are SO incredibly grateful for Ms. Gilinsky playing that part- and being there to cheer the cast and crew on from behind the scenes!

Tori Block – AGAIN- HOW amazingly wild is it that we are lucky to have WHS alumni be a backbone of future productions? Priceless? From Legally Blonde to Little Mermaid, coming back is one of the strongest statements anyone can do or provide as a testament to how a program sticks with you. Priceless. It is always a homecoming when someone like Tori is part of a WHS event, how lucky are we?

Alyssa Anthony Did I already ask How lucky are we? I need to ask again – “How lucky are we?!” as no introduction needs to be made for the amazing talent and contributions Ms. Anthony makes, and still makes in the district. The strength of many a production and hilarity has rest in the arms of Ms. Anthony and any production or event that occurs, and you know Alyssa is involved- you probably want to see what is happening too. We are just as excited to have her back as she states she is, but we think a little more on our side.

Ricki Truitt – I could only think of the word depth when it came to seeing what Ms. Truitt had done with the hair, but the overall feeling that not much else is needed with she is around. I could not get over how the depth of the jungle, the depth of the characters, the depth of the stage, could be so influenced by what you would think is simply braiding and yet – think about it. Think about what cosmetologists could do and contribute, combined with art, that is not being done currently- the sky is the limit. It has been an amazing addition to WHS with Ms. Truitt in so many ways, and seeing this particular avenue into how she accented the meaning of the show is simply one of many ways she “fixes” so many things for the betterment of those around her.

Ryan Curl – First it is awesome anytime you have a cast member willing to play a part in a production or any event. On top of that, what you do not see behind the scenes in technology, utilizing creative approaches to instruction with AI and tech, maintenance problems in tech at a school level, and often district, and knowing the students from Middle School and high school students needing that familiarity carryover- there is a longer list of advantages that Mr. Curl adds EVERY DAY to a “typical” educational day- again priceless. When things go down, Mr. Curl gets tech back up!

Brad Hiller – Speaking of getting teach back up, remotely AND in person, Mr. Hiller always has his sights on how to save the day and does so, and often, remotely via phone, email, and more. Honestly, one could not ask for a more rewarding source of support than Mr. Hiller has given behind the scenes on so many instances, even cats would have to wonder how to get extra lives. He is an AWESOME super saver of all things calamity in technology and has always helped escort the best solutions time and time again.

ZFX Flying Effects – Certainly the element of wonder in this production would not have been enabled without ZFX Effects. I for one have always been an advocate for how to stand out, how to rise to the occasion, how to be on the cutting edge of what others might not have thought of. I love to find ways to think outside of the box, and often a box that has been moved around a bit. Yet, it still puts me in wonder how this production of Tarzan the Musical stood out in its own way. Thank you so much ZFX Effect!

WHS Theatre Supporters- Sharon and Slaye Workman, Gillian Cannon, Kim Wharton, Carren Wright, Sheila Kintz, Scott Haldeman, Stacey Hartman, Jen Fisher, Rita Webb, Delaware Electric Co-Op, Anthony Lucke, John Davis and the WHS Custodial Staff – In looking at these names, there is NO DOUBT at all of what happens when you have talented individuals in the areas of technical, vocational, electrical, mechanical, artistic, public relations, connections amid parents and the community, cheerleaders, the individual able to fill in on a moment’s notice when something unexpected occurs, to the supply of parents able to support continued programs at WHS with continued, able-bodied, talented students. It is all in this community, as are the above individuals who without hesitation, made this production SOAR!

Let’s place a spotlight on three amazing cast members for this post, and then one post left and aside from cast, we think you know who we will be referencing, but let’s wait and see if you are correct- without further ado…

Being deeply involved on everything, means everything to everything.

Tanner Kintz /Ensemble – It has been said before but needs to be said again, without the buy in of repeat performers, any event is destined for a denouement. We are so lucky to have Tanner on so many previous productions as middle school and present in Tarzan the Musical. Add to this all the “extras” such as marching band, cross country, NJHS, SGA, and a host of awesome additions like swimming, gaming, etc.- have you noticed the more activities that students are involved in, while in a district, often it is an unspoken feeling of content, or belonging? We are not sure that is the case, but are grateful for Tanner being an active member of this production, as well as being a WHS Raider, as well as capturing so many opportunities to show what being a Raider means.

The Brightest Light is Light that Continue to Guide, Lead, and Motivate Those Around You.

Adria Seely/Ensemble– Certainly a new and welcoming face, it is hard to meet another student so open to challenges and tackling them one after another. Seeing Adria in the halls everyday, you see what she does to add to WHS, positive outlooks, optimism, a smile and yet she keeps to herself quite a bit. So you can imagine, not personally seeing her before in a production, seeing her on stage with Tarzan the Musical, just seemed right. The future looks quite bright for Adria and it certainly shine for her when you see her involved in this musical- but knowing she has come up the ranks from WMS and now is in the WHS house – the support she is daily willing to give to Woodbridge High is beyond measure and we are not going to let her go when is able to be a part!

Doing Anything is 1/2 part “Will”ing, and 1/2 Part Selflessness

William Smith/Ensemble – Without end William often will just pop into the library and ask how he can help. What do I need help with, what can be done to be a part of helping with the WHS Media Center, how can he help today, etc.- Williams is always asking, always open to help. Odd, when I saw William on stage with that thick head of hair, I wondered to myself, Would he fit in well, every day as a rocker with that hair? That was my first impression, William looked so incredibly DIFFERENT – wow! Much different- and yet it was satisfying to see him a part of the cast- and it dawned on me from Madison, to William, to Serenity, how different they looked with the “hair” that had been created for them.

It was still amazing to me how extremely different everyone looked. William has always been a willing participant if he set his mind to something and I think it is often to his merit when he is present at Raider Up after school, as well as being involved in JROTC, he is taking charge of responsibility in a variety. Yet, I am not sure I am speaking for William, but having an outlet in the form of arts, theatre, a certain pathway is so much better than not having anything else to look forward to outside of a typical school day or schedule. I wish I would have seen him in more, but hope, as a Junior, we will see much more upcoming.

Stay tuned for one more look into some often overlooked aspects of Tarzan the Musical as well as some individuals that may not have realized what an impact they have made!

As we glide into another section of amazing actors and actresses that have made this production amazing – let’s talk about the amazing sounds that accompanied this musical.

Music Serving as Guide Through the Jungle of Life and Realizations

The complete soundtrack of this musical has so many musical numbers, I never knew were attached to this musical and are 100% catchy / will draw you in. From “You’ll Be in My Heart” to “Who Better Than Me”, to “For the First Time”, to “I Need to Know”, the ability of the cast’s voice, with the amazing clarity and succinct quality of the musicians- it is inspirational and is a great partnership that makes this musical magical.

Kudos to the following members that made this music come alive:

Art Henry

Sara Dawson

Alex Hartman (You can’t mistake the heartbeat of the jungle through the drums).

Conor Wiedmann

Anna Ramon

Josh Getka

Stacey Hartman

Phoebe Marvel

Blayne Salemi

Danielle Jones

The family of musicians with the family of cast members indeed bring Tarzan the musical to each of us.

Speaking of the cast – let’s deep dive into this next section of cast members…

The Most Natural and Fascinating aspect of the Environment is that Which is Still A Mystery to Us

Rylee Curl/Ensemble. When you take in the song “Waiting for this Moment” with the amazing fauna found in the jungle, you realize how many cast members double as apes ands the plants. It is magical. I felt the power of the ensemble was bringing so much personality to what often could blend in the background, but can stand out with the right people. Certainly Rylee is one of the right people,

The expressions that are conveyed to the audience, from the body expressions of the characters in the ensemble, especially noticing the multiple roles the ensemble takes on, sometimes is the best secret when seen on stage. I recall the late practices each cast member had to be involved in, and remember Rylee coming into the high school and then straight to practice.

Think of the time she has devoted to being in at least four prior musicals and only in 8th grade. Then you realize how important it is to have someone so committed to the stage and to WHS in future years. The future is very bright thanks to the ability and devotion of such quality stage players and Rylee is no exception on stage in Tarzan the musical and what awaits the future.

Devotion to the Wrong Character’s Motives Can Often Strengthen the Right of the “Correct” Character’s Motives

Robert Donaway /Ensemble. Seeing Robert in the library many times, checking out books left and right, investigating paths of culinary pursuits and focusing his efforts towards anything he believes in is a strength he has. While in the musical devoted to what many would consider the wrong character, he certainly helps emphasize and promote this character.

His support of Clayton’s plots to disrupt our sense of what is correct, and being the muscle and heavy behind the character Clayton and his motives. you see the intensity he brings to any role he is interested in. It is exciting to see someone that has an outlet that he can feel he can be a part of wholeheartedly. It is also exciting to see how committed a student is to something. Certainly as a junior WHS is lucky to have someone that has been involved in the past, as well as hopefully seeing him in the future.

Don’t Neglect the Subtle Details That are Waiting to be Discovered

Ethan Hiller/Ensemble. Again, you have a cast member that as you watch the musical, he is ALL in every scene you see Ethan. AND IN 7TH GRADE! You do not realize how integral an ensemble member is from the print in a program, you realize how integral an ensemble member is when you see them bring alive that musical production on the stage.

Often you see the main parts and overlook the parts that are not leading roles. That is a mistake in this musical if you do so. The ensemble coordinates an interpretation of this musical in concert with the leading roles, with expressive, talented ensemble members to bring that interpretation to the audience. Many fall short of paying attention to the details and coordinated movements the ensemble has trained to learn, Don’t fall into that trap. Make sure you notice and are able to see the talented aspects of Ethan and the ensemble who make the personality of this musical complement the leading roles and you will realize the promise of their talent to the future of WHS stage productions.

Attention to Details Make the Fuller Picture Powerful

Robyn Goodman / Ensemble. Certainly a student containing powerful and talented expression, we hope you have not missed the past performances Robyn has been in that are Elf, Emma, Ghostlight, and legally Blonde. You know if you have seen Robyn in action how versatile in expression and potential she is. It is a welcome and bittersweet treat to see her in a final production of Tarzan the musical and it is almost as if she is in several productions.

When you see her as part of the elusive family Clayton and Porter are both looking for (for obvious different reasons), to donning royalty on the side of the stage, Robyn carries herself with an air of talent, possibility, and expression. She always is able to communicate a deep expression in her roles, and she is able to support so many roles around her with her presence.

As a Questbridge Scholar as the potential she has to go on to study in Chicago, Robyn herself has achieved many hurdles towards success, just as the diverse roles she has played in the past and plays in Tarzan the musical. Seeing her steadfast commitment to the stage at WHS, one can only hope she will continue this path in college, and WHS is certainly grateful for her commitment to several aspects of WHS to be represented in the best light. We are so proud of your accomplishments and commitment Robyn!

Support Comes in a Variety of Ways, in a Variety of Experiences With the Capable Individual

Te’Neal Grandison /Ensemble. Again, you have a stellar WHS member that brings so much light and talent to the ensemble. Being a participant since six years old, if you pay attention during the musical, you can’t help but notice how much intensity and commitment Te’Neal brings to the Tatzan, the musical family.

Having been involved in Legally Blonde, Emma!, as well as NHS as well as recently serving as lobbyist for WHS at Legislative Hall, there is nothing that Te’Neal really can’t do if she decides it is in her focus. Indeed, Te’Neal maintains this optimistic air that is contagious, and you can see with her expressive demeanor, she only brings others around her up. Her ability, interest, and capability blends right in with representing what Tarzan the musical aims to do, enlighten and surprise audiences while allowing her to stand out based on her enthusiasm and focus towards the audience. She is a gem for WHS as a part of this production.

It’s Never Too Late to Make an Impact

Samuel Rosado Montes as Father and Ensemble member. When I first met Samuel in school I remembered him as being one of the most positive-attitude members of the student body I had seen that day. He was a part of the students delivering arrangements ordered from Ms. Cannon’s class, and without saying a word his positivity radiated from him. Appearing as the father and part of the ensemble in Tarzan the Musical, he certainly sets and finishes the tone perfectly.

Coming back a second time is exactly what makes a great impact on great productions. A willingness to try new roles, new experiences, and put oneself “out there” shows how the arts can be found in all areas of the curriculum. Samuel’s involvement and ensemble no doubt also impacts his ability to be an effective member of the cast of Tarzan. I found myself wanting to dive back into the story of Tarzan. from Edgar Burrough’s Tarzan of the Apes and find out more details. I like the fact that Samuel’s role represents aspects of the production that want you dig and discover more, similar to the person Jane represents in the story. He is able to maintain that curiosity as a father that appears brief enough to cause you to want more, as he saves his wife and son, and reemerges to cause that same interest in his son to know more about his roots.

Samuel seems to carry a sense of selflessness and willing to play a part in pushing the narrative of the musical, and the urgency to survive and carry on, as the father in Tarzan depicts, and making us want to know more, to dig deeper on this background of where the father came from, how did they arrive where they arrived, to strive for learning more, all seems to be found in the way Samuel plays his role. While sad to see him already ready to leave in his senior year, it is to Woodbridge’s benefit to have him be a part these past two years to help represent the arts as WHS!

Adversity is Constant, but so is the Commitment to Countering Adversity

Marleigh Tibbs as Snipes/Ensemble. Definitely the threats of adversity lurk everywhere, and can overcome and consume you in any context. Helping assist in bringing the impact of the ensemble to the audience many might overlook and yet, that is one of the most important aspects to help relay the theme and overall sounds of the production, and Woodbridge is lucky to see Marleigh again coming back for another production. Being able to play multiple roles also takes skill and ability, did you remember where you saw her other than as the leopard?

Additionally, being flown in the air as the leopard, initiating the conflict that sets in motion the plot of Tarzan the musical, as well as being a constant threat throughout the production was a need of a reliable cast member. I can’t imagine how it felt to be in midair on so many occasions, while also being concentrated on directing those postures in body language towards another cast member. Despite there being a sense of nervousness in the first night (I would not have gotten to the point of being hooked up and handling being up in the air that high!) – Marleigh’s intensity and concentration are as real as the threat she represents to other members in the musical.

It is inspiring to see the commitment of students coming up through the grades to support the endeavors of a promise of a production to represent the high school. Other surrounding schools in the state and out of the state do not have the means, interest, ability, or funds to be able to offer arts in the form Woodbridge has been able to offer, especially during and after COVID situations. The push and desire to continue in the arts from students, is a testament to the value of directing attention and priorities to student’s interests and ability on this direction. Just as Marleigh’s leopard laser vision/attention is directed towards specific members of the Tarzan the musical plot, her steadfast commitment through and through with the ensemble and stage allows the strength of the arts to continue. Although the leopard’s demise is imminent, it is rewarding to know the future of more inspirational theatre acts is not.

Longevity and Constancy Relies on a Belief in Oneself and the Process

Serenity Harrington as Snipes / Ensemble. Serenity is also a conscientious student when it comes to interested if how others feel, see, and experience the value of any role that she takes on. She wants others to see the value in anything she is a part of to represent WHS, and sometimes frets if it will have the impact her and everyone wants it to. One cannot question how much Serenity put into areas that Woodbridge represents different avenues/interests open to students.

From marching band, hand bell choir, to concert band, choir, to theatre arts, adding in the productions of Frozen, Emma, Legally Blonde, Ghostlight, Elf, and the arts dating back to first grade, Serenity would be what is considered an “old-timer”, someone involved since the very beginning of the school years. If you look closely and pay attention, you will see Serenity in multiple roles within the production. Certainly the ability of juggling Academic Challenge, striving for honor roll, AND adding into the mix extracurricular activities, it sounds so noble and almost expected of students today. It is another reality to see how taxing that can be on student when you see first hand the early mornings, all day rigors required mentally and socially, and then on top of that late hours to allow all to move forward.

I have often seen Serenity first thing in the morning and do indeed see the exhaustion that comes with the decision to thrown oneself into everything. Yet, the rewards are obvious as you see the end product, be it a production, a performance, or a bottom line grade, the expectations that lie outside of the hurdles within school are real. It is a proud moment to see such effort and time being put into activities have such a positive outlet for students like Serenity. WHS is lucky to have someone willing to “stick” to so many avenues of expression for so long. Despite the long hours and tired mornings and late evenings, I see Serenity realizing it is all worth it when you see others, both in school and out, also realize it. Her long-term commitment continues to convince others to do the same, which make things happen at WHS.

Despite the Presence of Quietness, Opportunity and Consistency is the Loudest

Abigail Brabitz in Ensenble. Perhaps one of the quietest students in WHS, (at least seeing through the halls), quietness can be deceiving as you learn in Tarzan the musical. However, if you pay close attention in Tarzan, you see Abigail in multiple places, capable of much diversity in contributing.

If you look in WHS as well, you see Abigail represented in art and the avenue of expression being represented as well. As mentioned previously, being committed to such pursuits year after year allows others to follow to have the same opportunity. Often, the paths that are often the quietest offer the most opportunities for discovery. you sense this with Abigail from her commitment as well from her ability to come year after year.

It goes without saying, that students like Abigail WHS relies on to keep opportunities of expression open to the future. It is exciting and rewarding to know WHS can rely on Abigail to keep these opportunities open to futue classes. Thank you Abigail!

Leadership Often Takes Many Faces

Xavier Cannon as Kerchak – Certainly part of the magic of theatre is what occurs behind the scenes. This is no exception. The incredible task of taking on fundraising is a challenge and difficulty that can be an uphill battle. The journey that Xavier has always taken seems to be done in the most earnest and seeing him push towards being the top fundraiser for the theatre company was just one face of his commitment to the art. In being in Elf, Emma, and Legally Blonde, you might have seen how impactful he is with his voice as well as following his voice through the commitment to something he loves.

Being committed to Select ensemble, Concert Band, and Concert Choir, it is not too far fetched to see just in the description above how he could serve as a mentor and leader in many aspects of his commitment to arts. You notice with the repeat of the words commitment above, it is not difficult for Xavier to quietly lead, yet lead without sometimes saying a word. In Tarzan the musical, it seems the more dominant and loud of a leader makes the path in the jungle. It is difficult outside of this realm to imagine Xavier as loud, physically attempting to lead with large movements being made, and filling the space in the room from his actions. His quiet demeanor, effortless decision to make things happen, and commitment to putting his all into everything are part of who he is, and on stage, he wears this dominance well and makes room for everyone else to follow.

As said by a faculty member, Ms. Redmond, “I was also impressed by Xavier Cannon.  IDK maybe it is what was expected from him- but to see him transform from his role in Elf to the first king of the jungle was incredible. His voice is comparable to men I’ve seen play Sweeney  Sweeney Todd. If the performances I’ve seen are an indication- think he could have a professional career in opera.“

Whether Xavier chooses to lead by voice or by the actions of the role he is currently in, he just makes it happen, and there is no escaping that fact is evident in this musical.

Strength in Your Outlook and Ability to See What is Possible Ahead of You

Madison Moore as Terk. There are a few characters that instantly, you feel you fall right in step with, fall into a connection with from audience to actor, characters you just genuinely like and enjoy form the beginning. What is ironic is that is how Madison is in real life as a student as well, One of the most pleasant and positive, and capable individuals outside of the stage, seeing Madison absolutely soar into her roles in legally Blonde, Ghostlight, and Emma, her overall eclectic ability to liven any role tops the charts. Her voice grabs you, keeps you in place without any other details needed, but her enthusiasm and general talent to keeping roles riveting, electric and part of the equation of the overall plot – it is just who she is when you see her on stage.

Additionally, having had the advantage of seeing Madison sing at Baccalaureate with the ensemble and perform with the handbells, seeing her perform at games in band, one asks, what actually could she NOT be able to do? No one wants to know as all want to see her succeed due to her genuine and real personality. You just want to continue to see her succeed, and her optimism and ability to pull you along with that same characteristic just makes any role work. You are connected from the beginning with the relationship presented between Tarzan and Terk, and navigating the height of the jungles with ease, it would be difficult to imagine anyone else being able to master this like Madison. Such an asset to WHS and to the theatre program and so many ways, it is a complete joy to know she is a part of this production, and you definitely know in seeing her on stage! Were you as impressed as I that she made seeming being in air as natural as the way she is on the ground? Just asking.

Reflection and Action as a Tool to Guide You

Lauren Smack as Young Tarzan/Ensemble just WORKS. I wondered what? A Young Tarzan? How does that work? Watching Lauren on stage, and having the privilege to see her clear obstacle after obstacle off-stage – I am tired at the end of a week from just seeing her accomplish so much, but a type of tired that one cannot erase remains. You feel the same in seeing how Tarzan faces decision after decision brought in front of him, and the rapidity of insight required to move forward. Lauren’s ability to portray a younger version of the man we see later, in addition to pulling off a double split of older Tarzan alongside a younger Tarzan on stage, makes this production brilliant. From the actions of being bullied, to the actions of taking that same bullying and turning into a leader that holds onto the dreams that could come her way – I can tell you in watching her in high school, she applies the same determination, ability, and grit to all that arrives in her path.

I honestly could not imagine a production without Lauren due to her commitment to the roles he found herself in from Frozen, (during a Covid era that the cast brilliantly overcame), Legally Blonde, Ghostlight, Emma, to Peter Pan – she is always present in any role she is give and the audience feels this presence in some form or fashion. There is a character to Lauren’s voice that allow her to be part of the ensemble and character cast that you can count on, that is simply who Lauren is.

You would think this involvement and success would go to anyone student’s head, as any of the previously mentioned students – but not, as the others, Lauren remains rooted in the task at hand right in front of her and carries it to the utmost height of success. Often I have seen Lauren question her own ability to pull off the success of this or that but she never lets that question hold her back. it is exciting to see a student come into her own way of success through finding her way to do so. She is such a well-rounded, willing to give it what it takes student, as an actress her confidence she comes into pushes her forward every time. So proud of you Lauren!

Never Wander Far from Your Commitment to What is Right…and Laugh

Jared Rios as Porter/Ensemble. Wow, Let me say again. WOW. Often the unexpected hits you like a freight train. That is exactly what happened when Jared hits the stage from the very first “step.” His step is unlike anyone else’s and it defines his success in Tarzan the musical, without a doubt. HIS FIRST SHOW and I am asking myself, WHYYYYYY? I would have wanted to see him in many more and can only image the laughter and the expressive interpretation he has the potential to bring to any role if he wanted to. There is little doubt the strength Jared’s voice brings to the ensemble,

I think the most noticeable thing on and off stage is seeing what Jared is capable of and not knowing whether he himself has realized it, In realizing this, when you see his character having to confront what is right versus what is wrong, when moral decisions have to be made, when fatherly advice and decisions have to be made, when a clinical view and a himan.social view needs to be separated out, and when Jared has to ACT in something versus just being verbally supportive, Jared owns that in his role on stage. In fact, I would go as far as to say Jared has the ability to own that on and off the stage, and I feel he has a confidence that could really do anything he wanted; you get that feeling when you see his role as Jane’s father work through so many revolutions in the plot.

I was super surprised, excited, and proud of how Jared brings this role to life. I have seen Tarzan the Musical to compare to a Cascade Theatre version, and there is NO WAY I would want that role, to be this role. Jared is able to bring a personality and ownership to this role that deserves to be in front of the WHS audience that just works above and beyond what you would hope for. That is a success as is he in this role. You do not want to miss when Jane’s father first encounters the family of apes alongside the dialogue happening on stage, HYSTERICAL and a good example of how multiple events are occurring at the same time on stage that make this performance full of details.

When Wrong is Wrong and Carries the Audience to Heights

Keaton Macinta as Clayton. Have a read that correct? 8th GRADE? What? How is that possible you night ask? I was asking myself this question when I read the description of his character in Tarzan the musical but yes, believe it. Keaton does an excellent job of pulling you in more and more in loving to hate him as character in the scheme of the plot. His betrayals, his plotting to betray, his aim to represent that part of human nature that Kerchak battles against constantly filters through the audience all through the musical.

While you do not see a confrontation between Clayton and Terk until the very end of this production, you sense the pushing, pushing, pushing, against what is right with the characters of Jane, Jane’s father, the entourage that Clayton brings into the forest, and the remaining dark motives that match the motives seen against the main and all minor characters.

I would guess and infer that having a sense of presenting a negative trait in a character, while alternatley supporting yourself and others in a production, takes a heavy amount of responsibility that waits in the back and filters slowly in through the whole cast; yet it works so successfully in this case. Actively a part of past productions such as Annie, The Little Mermaid, and Beauty and the Beast, the fact that Woodbridge has a commitment to the stage in years to come, one you can count in through each role, year after year, is often what makes a great production team for all productions. This can be as powerful as the first time an individual finds the arts and has such an initial impact on a production. It is fortunate that WHS has been able to see Keaton and one can only be excited about what future roles will have such an impact. Wanting the audience to feel so strongly about the actions of a character was a strength that shows the ability Keaton has through the role of Clayton in this production.

As Brief, Constant and Committed as You Can Imagine

Olivia McCarron as Mother and Ensemble. There is little that I have noticed Olivia does not worry or fret about. She is a master worrier of how her role will impact the audience, if her involvement is significant, if what she has to offer is something important enough to warrant impacting the audience. Outside of the stage she is a worrier, maybe even a doubter.

Then comes the time she takes thew stage and you are asking yourself, “Is this the SAME Olivia that was worried what she was bringing to the stage? She answers those doubts as soon as you see her, production after production after production giving what she enjoys, what she feels, what she is able to to do to the audience. In this case, Suessical Jr., Legally Blonde, Frozen, Ghostlight, and Emma have all benefitted in her being involved, taking a role and making it her own.

As a member of the Girls Who Code, you might expect this techy- meme-loving aspect to not really allow a space for theatre or acting. Nope. She embraces such a wide-range of interests I think it probably matches the diverse roles she jumps into and owns. it also seems fitting that she is at the start and finish of this production as she does indeed that, take a role and puts her all into it until completion. That helps define her as a person and despite having doubts along the way, I never have lost faith in the fact that she can bring the meaning of her role to fruition. Her brief appearances in productions as well as her permanent visible roles alike allow her to show everyone who sees and knows her, how capable a person she is, even when sometimes she seems to question that fact. She always answers that question on stage and that says a TON about who she is as a person.