The in-progress set resides in the SLOHS theater. Photo courtesy of senior Roslyn Risner.
Every year, many San Luis Obispo High School students participate in the Spring Musical, but when it comes to this year’s production of “Urinetown” unique challenges have arisen. And not only with the acting portion. Particularly on the technical/building side of things, with the recent absence of the head theater director Noelle Eben. But as they say, the show must go on!
“I’m really happy with how the tech side is going. Although Mrs. Eben isn’t here right now, Mettler is such a great help and I’m thankful that Bo, Mrs. Eben’s husband and our longtime technical director, is able to be here with us and has sent us so many thoughtful blueprints,” said Commissioner of Technical Theatre and senior Jack McGhee.
As of this week, the base of the set has been completed, leaving the detailing, painting, and finishing touches to be completed before opening night, February 13.
A key aspect of keeping the show on track is the enthusiasm portrayed through the whole team, with members always being quick to jump in and help one another.
“We do a ton of set building, which is one of my favorite parts of tech. For the most part, I assist with people around the stage, never sitting in one spot and getting a little bit of everything. Working together on a set and seeing the end results after lots of hard work is so satisfying. I love seeing the progress at the end of every day!” said new tech member and freshman Jackie Harman.
This year’s production may seem unusual, especially to someone who’s never heard of the title “Urinetown”, but rest assured, the show is on track to be a blast, despite recent challenges.
“The most challenging part is definitely having to put on a show without Mrs. Eben being around. You really start to notice how much someone does when they aren’t around,” said lighting operator and junior Hayla Ackerman.
Everyone involved in the Spring Musical is immensely dedicated and determined to see this show be the best it can be.
“The most important thing for a show to be successful is for the team to know what they have to do. Especially when we have more time in the production process, like this show, it can be hard to know what we have to get done, but that is what leaders are for. They find the next project and delegate jobs,” said McGhee.
As always, the theater program relies on its student leaders to step up and complete projects, especially with the director absent. Additionally, the contributions of dance instructor Mandi Mettler and Choir director Rick Robbins, as well as many parents, are making the show worthwhile in so many ways.
“Mettler has been doing an absolutely amazing job in making this production go round. Without her there would be no show,” said Ackerman.
While technical theater is now in much smoother sailing, the dedication required in the next month leading up to the show from everyone involved makes it a production not to miss.
So mark the calendar, Tigers, “Urinetown”’ runs for two weekends, opening February 13, don’t miss out!
