If you weren't able to catch Mamma Mia!, the incredible play put on by Frenship High School Theatre students, you truly missed out on a spectacle.
We visited with District Coordinator of the Theatre Department, Mr. Jacob Lierman, about the play and all of the work that it takes to put on an award-winning show. Q: How many hours of hard work and practice were put in by everyone who was a part of this production?
Lierman: We rehearse every Monday through Thursday from 4 to 6:30 PM. In November we extend rehearsals to Monday through Friday, and the week of show we rehearse every day until 8:00 PM.
Q: How did you feel the moment the first showing started on Friday night?
Lierman: Just full of pride. These kids have worked so hard. All but one of my leads were stepping into a lead role for the first time. This is a very young cast but watching them grow has been such a joy.
Q: How did your students perform over the weekend?Lierman: Our kiddos did phenomenal! Even in the midst of some sound issues, they handled themselves like professionals. That is one thing you can always count on, Frenship will deliver a professional show. I settle for nothing less.
Q: How do they manage to perform so many shows in such a short amount of time?
Lierman: Most of your professional shows perform eight shows a week. I like to give my kids a glimpse at what it means to have to stay vocally, mentally and physically healthy by putting multiple shows in front of them. Our cast of Once on This Island last year did an eight-show week. It’s exhausting, but it gives them a glimpse of the world they are walking into. They always step up to the challenge. When you expect a lot from your kids, they will deliver.
Q: What would you like to say about your students and their performances this weekend?
Lierman: I’m a proud proud guy. They know I love them deeply, and I could not have expected more. They left my heart full of pride.
Q: When can people catch your program in action again?
Lierman: We will be jumping into auditions for One-Act Play today! No rest for the weary! Musical Theatre will be doing Godspell this spring and we will give dates for both the One-Act play and Godspell soon. Be watching for it!
We also had the chance to visit with Derek Dillard who played Bill Austin in Mamma Mia! He echoed Mr. Lierman on the time, talent, hard work and effort.
Q: How would you describe you and your co-star's performances over the weekend?Dillard: Everyone put their heart and soul into the show and left it all on the stage after working so hard for the last few months.
Q: How do you mentally and physically prepare yourself for four performances in a day and a half?
Dillard: Hard work, dedication and a respect for the art form is something each and every one of us shares. When we all get together and work for something we believe in, it almost feels like anything is possible.
Q: What would you like your cast to know about their performances in Mamma Mia!?
Dillard: I am so proud of everyone. The growth as actors and performers is one thing, but even more noteworthy is the growth of people as individuals. It was an experience that none of us will ever forget.