Drama performs “Beauty and the Beast”
by SASKIA SANI
Presenting another twist to a classic movie, drama will perform their production, “Beauty and the Beast,” May 13 at 4 p.m. and May 15 at 7 p.m. in the auditorium.
Daniel Gonzalez, teacher and director of drama, as well as Rachel Torres, the president of drama, collaborated on choosing the play, which is the classic retelling in the Disney movie, but with a twist in the music selection.
The score, however, is from the original Broadway musical and will be played by an 10-member orchestra prepared by band director Antonio Castro.
Most of the songs incorporated will be the original pieces from the musical and movie. Songs such as “Beauty and the Beast,” “Be Our Guest” and “Little Town” will be some of the main musical numbers featured in the play. However, there are some song choices that are included to bring a modern twist. “Dark Paradise” by Lana del Rey, “Howl” by Florence and the Machines and “Gloves” by Michel Cielecki are a few of the songs the students chose to incorporate.
“The students are the ones that choose what songs they want to do. I am the one that watches them perform to make sure it is excellent,” said Gonzalez.
Beginning immediately after their last play, “Tales of Horror,” drama students have practiced every day during their fifth period class, after school, and weekends to prepare for the production.
Students auditioned for the roles by performing a speech, a song, dance or monologue and were chosen by Gonzalez based on talent, years of experience in the program and dedication.
Dayana Marquez, senior, will play the part of Belle; Francisco Quirarte, senior, will play the Beast; and Kane Tenorio, senior, will play Gaston.
“I think it was easier to rehearse and work with than the last production, since we all know the classic tale,” said senior Denytza Avila. “We have students that work so hard and deserve to shine in the spotlight.”
Several song choices and the accompanying choreography are chosen and done by the students. The stage design class creates part of the set for the play, and each cast member creates his or her own costume.
This is drama’s second biggest fundraiser of the year, and the costs of the production will be paid solely through ticket sales.
Tickets will be sold for $5 May 13, $7 presale and $8 at the door May 15. Tickets for the production are on sale in Room M-1.
Children ages 4 and under will not be admitted.