By: Katy Coakley
Preparations for the upcoming musical comedy, The Prom, are now underway with the beginning of auditions. Auditions took place from Sept. 7 to 9 at the Martin Recital Hall as actors, dancers, singers, and anyone interested in theater participated.
The Prom tells the story of student Emma Nolan, who wants to take her girlfriend, Alyssa Greene, to her high school prom.
However, situations arise when the PETA makes the decision to cancel prom and prevent Emma and Alyssa from attending. When a group of struggling Broadway stars hear about the news, they travel to Indiana and help the girls get where they need to be.
This musical is based the book by Bob Martin and Chad Beguelin. It also won five Drama Desk Awards and was nominated for six Tony Awards including Best Musical.
The Prom was later adapted into a 2020 Netflix film starring Nicole Kidman, Keegan-Michael Key, Meryl Streep, and Kerry Washington.
Krista Hansen, artistic director and associate professor of theater arts, stated that she wanted to do this musical to address the rise in homophobia.
“Right now, we have a record number of anti-Queer bills being brought into legislation across the country,” said Hansen. “It is very important that we are standing up for our queer youth and showing them that there is a home.”
Hansen also said she thinks audiences will feel a sense of joy and pride when watching this musical.
“I would like for them to understand that everyone has value,” said Hansen. “This musical proves that love is love and everyone deserves a prom.”
Stage manager Nadine Young explained why she enjoys working behind the scenes of The Prom.
“It is about seeing how the show becomes the way it should be,” said Young. “This includes people working together and making it all happen.”
Patrice Broyles, the assistant stage manager, believes that more people will be inspired by the musical after watching it.
“We want to bring the show to life,” said Broyles. “This musical is about expressing yourself.”
Rehearsals for The Prom will run from Sept. 20 through Nov. 1 while performances will take place from Nov. 10 through 12.
kcoakley@my.dom.edu
