Closing night of “The Drowsy Chaperone,” Franklin theater’s fall musical, is upon us, with the last performance being Saturday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m.. This lively show opened on Nov. 7, with performances on Nov. 8, 9, 13, and 14 as well.
The musical “The Drowsy Chaperone” first debuted in 1998, and premiered on Broadway in 2006, which led it to win five Tony Awards, including Best Original Score. This play follows a lonely, middle-aged woman with a deep passion for musical theater. As she is playing her favorite record one day, the 1920s musical also called “The Drowsy Chaperone” comes to life in her apartment.
The musical-within-a-musical tells the story of Broadway star Janet Van De Graaff who gives up her career to marry an oil tycoon, and the chaos that follows. Other important characters include Van De Graaff’s comically drunk chaperone who fails to keep her out of trouble, and her producer who will use any means necessary to stop the wedding. With its witty narration and big dance numbers, the production captures the power of escapism and the significance of musical theater.
Franklin social studies teacher Portia Hall Rockne is the director of “The Drowsy Chaperone,” and has helped with the entire process, from cast selection to opening. She explains the thought process behind choosing this not very well known musical, suggested by dance teacher Sonia Kellermann. “We wanted something funny and uplifting that was not necessarily a kids show,” says Hall. She goes on to say that they were searching for something new that no other Portland high school has put on, so the audience is not seeing the same show performed multiple times.
This humorous musical has a modern perspective. Hall explains that the production isn’t just a comedy — it makes people feel. She continues, describing that the overall message is about how musical theater can help you escape. “Even when times are rough, musical theater is what can get us through those times.” Especially in the years since the pandemic, it’s important to remember the connection that musical theater can produce in the community.
The cast and crew of more than 80 students have been rehearsing since Sept. 9, spending every school day and many weekends working. Hall says time is the most challenging aspect of directing a musical. “People get sick or we fall behind,” she says. “It’s hard to find a balance trying to finish and do it well.”
Although some aspects of the process can be rigorous, Hall Rockne explains how working on the musical is always the highlight of her day. “Everyone actually wants to be there. Watching everyone having fun singing and dancing makes it all worth it.” Letting go of perfection makes the final performance more raw and real, and the fact that so many people worked together on it helps it feel special to Hall.
Senior Vesper Malony has the role of the Woman in Chair, who provides narration and commentary by listening to the record of the musical. They explain that, when the musical was first announced, they were slightly skeptical because they had never heard of it. However, through working on the show with the rest of the cast and crew, they have fallen in love with their character and the story. They explain that the musical is extremely funny, with catchy songs, a reasonable run time, and many hilarious and eccentric characters. “Even though it’s not super well known, it’s definitely worth going to see, [and] you won’t be disappointed!” Malony exclaims.
The huge team of people are what makes the performance so strong. Senior Xochitl Ponce-Juergens plays the role of Trix the Aviatrix, a brave, sassy, and take-charge female lead. Ponce-Juergens says that her favorite part of the musical is the narration. “Our Woman in Chair makes every scene and song funnier and gives the whole show so much character and humor!” She continues saying, “Knowing [that] you did well and people actually enjoyed it is also the best part!”
Before performing, Ponce-Juergens tries to imagine what kind of person her character is and what personality they have, which helps her connect on a deeper level. However, this can be difficult when the character does not have similarities with the actor. Junior Elliot Watts has the role of Aldolpho, whose personality is very different from his own. He notes that, “Aldolpho is supposed to be tall, handsome, stupid, and loud which is something that I have a difficult time connecting with.” However, Aldolpho is a funny character who often doesn’t understand what’s going on, which is something Watts feels he can connect to.
Junior V Goetz has the role of The Drowsy Chaperone, an influential and audacious character. “I try to put myself into her sassy and what I like to think of as a self-centered way of being.” Goetz explains that the musical is extremely funny, while also being inspiring for the world we live in right now, which is especially seen in their song, “As We Stumble Along.” The song reflects the human condition of navigating life’s challenges with humor and resilience. It encourages embracing imperfections and finding joy in the journey, which resonates with the desire for connection and shared experiences that many people can relate to in today’s world.
For the years to come, Franklin wants to keep making great musicals that bring the community together. The theater department worked to recreate this engaging and cinematic story, which offers a breathtaking escape into the world of musical comedy, while reminding us of the importance of joy and connection. In today’s often overwhelming world, it’s important to remember the significance of uplifting one another via song, dance, and performance. Don’t forget to get tickets for the final performance of “The Drowsy Chaperone” on Saturday, Nov. 15!
