The curtain has come down on another spring musical presented by the Nechako Valley Senior Secondary drama department. Enthusiastic audiences enjoyed the rollicking musical “Thoroughly Modern Millie - Jr.” on May 1,2,3 and 8, 9,10 in the NVSS small auditorium.
Set in roaring 20’s New York City, Sarah Ebert plays the title character fleeing small town life to seek her fortune in the big city. A “Thoroughly Modern” woman, Millie is armed with a strategy to find a wealthy employer to charm and ultimately marry. Millie’s plans go hilariously awry taking twists and turns as Ebert and the cast sing, dance and tongue-twist their way through the energetic tale.
Backing the actors was a talented and dedicated production crew taking care of costumes, lighting, sound, props, sets, hair, make-up and more assisted by many supportive school staff, parents and businesses.
Making his NVSS directorial debut Mark Durupt of Northside Christian School, was delighted with the opportunity too work with this group, and to share the experience with his family who also took part.
When asked “What has been the highlight of your experience directing this show?” Durupt responds “It has been so exciting to watch cast and crew members spend hours of hard work on each piece of the puzzle, like a challenging jazz solo, an original Gilbert and Sullivan patter song, an Al Jolsen style routine, or even choreography with tippy rolling desks, and then perform all of the parts together, almost effortlessly, night after night! The way they have been able to transport me straight to 1920’s New York, and make me burst into spontaneous cheering and genuinely laugh to tears EVERY NIGHT, has really been a highlight for me!”
“Thoroughly Modern Millie” is just one more example the passion of theatre enthusiasts in our community. Reading the program it is interesting to note that many of the young cast and crewmembers are relative veterans having participated in an astounding number of performances often starting early in elementary school and with the Vanderhoof Children’s Theatre.