The Drowsy Chaperone

By Brianna Naderpour and Elizabeth Carres
DEC 06, 2016

Emma Seeger receiving flowers after one of her performances

St. Thomas Aquinas’ (STA) annual Fall musical was a total hit once again! This year, the STA Players (Fine Arts Department) brought to life The Drowsy Chaperone, a comedic parody set in the 1920s. The show premiered at the Bienes Center for the Arts, on Thursday, November 17, and ran until Sunday, November 30. Unfortunately, the Friday night showing had to be canceled due to a scheduling conflict. All performances were very successful.

Sophomore Madison Grushoff said, “I thought the show was very good. They’re all very talented.” Freshman Mackenzie Grushoff said, “It was very funny. There were good singers.” STA teacher, Mrs. Mitsoulis said, ”Everyone did a wonderful, beautiful job learning their lines and entertaining us.”

Some of the cast and crew after the show

This musical was meant to appeal to all types of audiences with its lighthearted entertainment. Mr. Seeger, the play’s director, said,”It’s just a fun time, enjoying the moment, being there with everyone else.” The actors and crew all had to go through extensive practice and hard work to make the show run as smoothly as it did. Stage Manager Emily Petruska said,”We set up all of the technological aspects of the show. Everything that you really don’t pay that much attention to, but it adds atmosphere to the show.” Costume Manager Gillian Hoelzel said, “I work to make sure that the characters’ costumes fit and express them well.” Even though they weren’t interested with performing on stage, Gillian and Emily wanted to be involved with the musical’s production. They were happy to be able to find another way to lend a hand that was just as crucial to the play’s success.

Giddy actors after Saturday's afternoon show — Giddy actors after Saturday’s afternoon show

Although preparation for the play was time-consuming and difficult at times, the cast said that it just made them feel more like a family. When discussing the differences between last year’s play and this one, actor Emma Seeger, who played the Woman in the Chair, said, “This year’s play was a lot harder, but both experiences were great.” Actor Brian Sayer, who played the Best Man, said, ”The music last year was a lot harder. The music this year has its challenges, but I like to think it’s more fun.” Actor Alanna Quiton, who played the Drowsy Chaperone, said, “With GODSPELL there was more of a family connection [in the storyline], and with this play, there is a different dynamic.”

The musical this year provided many laughs, as well as good memories. It will be exciting to see what the STA Players bring to the stage for next year’s Fall musical.