Don't Miss the Last Musical in the Performing Arts Center Before Renovation!

2/28/2024

Mr. John Jordan '80

The cast and crew of Matilda is in full swing this week. The Auk players opened the Winter Musical last weekend, debuting Roald Dahl’s Matilda. The musical stars senior Maggie Shelton in the title role as the bright, sassy girl outwitting her parents (played by Jonah Tonn and Brianna Cubbler). Junior Bridget McNamara plays Matilda’s teacher, Miss Honey, in the show. We caught up with Bridget this week to check in.

Bridget has been involved in Archmere theater since her freshman year and loves the experience. “The show is going really well. We received good feedback from last weekend’s two performances...I love the [acting] process: you get to play someone other than yourself but within that you play yourself as well.” Her love of theater captures the entire involvement, from casting to choreography to relationship building. “I love the whole experience of meeting new people. Each cast is different and, like a sports team, you really develop relationships from year to year, with new and familiar friends."

This weekend the crew will perform both Friday and Saturday night. “My favorite song is kind of sad, ‘When I Grow Up.’ It’s about loss of youth and it is a good opener for Act 2 of the play.” Referencing a bit of nostalgia, Bridget reflected on her affection for Archmere theater and the fact that she will miss the seniors. “I’ve done 6 plays with [senior] Jack Roarty. There’s something final and finite about the show.” Alluding to the upcoming Performing Arts Center renovation, she added, “And it’s the last show in this theater as it is.”

The show is directed by Mr. Brian Manelski, choreographed by Christina Lawless ‘12, with musical direction by Pat D'Amato '08. Please come out this weekend to enjoy the Auksome performance. Alumni, join us for a pre-show reception on March 2nd, 2024 at 6PM. Catch up with old friends, reminisce about your fond memories in our theater, and learn about the renovations that we have in store for the Performing Arts Center! Click here to register.

Click here to donate to the Performing Arts Center renovation

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