Scrooge! Is RMHS Drama’s Latest

Mrs. Cunha emphasizes the importance of including the community all around us in a post pandemic world. Like the rest of the world, theater took a big hit during the pandemic. Broadway closed and theaters all around us took a pause. This took away  the opportunity for people to watch and experience theater, especially the younger generations. “Post COVID it has been really important to us that we bring people back into the world of theater and remind them of what we do and why we do it, so having a children’s choir, staff cameos, and more members of the community in our show is something we are really excited to have,” said Mrs. Cunha.  “It gives elementary school students who don’t yet have the opportunity in this district to have theater throughout their school day a chance to see and experience what being in a show is like. So, hopefully we are creating a lot of theater lovers through this show.” 

Working with younger students is a learning experience not only for the children’s choir, but also for the high schoolers and directors. “It allows the older students to take stock into their own experiences and realize how important these theater moments are, and be role models helping to guide our young cast members,” Mrs. Cunha said.  Having a children’s choir is something the cast, crew, and directors are thrilled about. 

Senior Ellen Richards, who doubles as lead wardrobe and a child helper, explains how professional the children have been throughout the show process. “They’re very well behaved for their age, and they’re also very supportive of each other,” she said. “If they ever get off track we try to get their focus back by using silly rhymes like ‘1, 2, 3, eyes on me!’ We also try to honor the fact that most kids need some stimulation and some fun while they’re working.”

Senior Amy DeMartinis  who plays “Isabel” in the production says the children are “working extremely hard to learn the material” and keep up with the older kids. RMHS Fine and Performing Arts Department Head and Scrooge! Music Director Mr. Mosher illustrates what a privilege it is to work with the children’s choir every week. “They have smiling, shining faces every time they come in…They are balls of energy with lots of enthusiasm and they’re eager to learn. They’re just such a joy to be with every single time. I look forward to working with them every week.”

Julia Pruitt is a sixth grader who plays  “Tiny Tim” in the production. When asked how she liked working with the high schoolers she said, “It can be kind of pressuring at first. But I really like it, it’s a lot of fun…I like singing and dancing the best.” This production is helping the Drama Club make an impact on the community and spread joy during the holiday season.  Scrooge! is a community event for the whole family.

The show runs December 2nd, 3rd, 9th, and 10th at 7:30PM and December 4th and 10th at 2PM. Visit rmhsdrama.org to purchase tickets.