Update on Middle School Musical

Yesterday was a fun day.

Half day of school, which as we all know means at least 4 hours of rehearsal.

So when school lets out, the 6th graders have already arrived due to their school letting out even earlier.  They ask what to do about lunch.  With the fear that food in the auditorium is a bad idea, I tell everyone to eat in the back hallway.  When everyone else arrived, the hallway started to get a little packed, but everyone was settling in.  When Mr. V arrived, he had no objection to people eating in the auditorium. 

It began with a quick music review, while I took small groups behind the curtain to work on some choreography.  Due to TE being kicked out, KR was chosen to take his place in "Human Stuff", and we just reviewed that a little.  This was followed by a review of the kicking section of "Kiss the Girl", and "One Step Closer".  

Then came a full run-through.  This went very well.  I took notes and gave ratings (see below).  During long breaks between music numbers, I socialized with a lot of the cast.  We talked about all sorts of thing, played cards, and just had a good time.  Because of the new harsh rules, and the fact that Mr. V was completely involved in the show, I was constantly being asked for permission to go to the bathroom/get a drink/etc.  It's annoying, but there really is no other way.

After the run-through, it was time for a choreography work-through, which included the giving of the notes and ratings.  I hammered "Under the Sea" until it reached the point where everyone was groaning.  "Kiss the Girl" is finally starting to make progress.  "She's in Love" is going to be fine.  I have to admit, the choreography for that is probably the best, which makes sense considering the circumstances.  I'm just worried that MC is going to have problems.  She was missing for this entire week.

All in all, I'm having such a fun time.  I said that it had the potential to be the most fun I've ever had doing a show, and it's living up to its expectations.  

And, the latest ratings...

"Human Stuff": 5

This has come together really fast.  It's not quite there yet, but considering we finished it on Tuesday, and KR only learned it on Thursday, it's going great!

"Under the Sea:": 7.2

I am so happy with the way this is turning out.  This has been my dream number since June when I first suggested the show to Mr. V, and I was working choreography in my head even before the show was announced.  Going to be a huge show stopper!

"She's in Love": 6.5

Another show stopper!  The audience isn't going to be ready for this number one bit, and the dancers are nailing the choreography.  Just where is MC...

"Les Poissons": 4.5

This number is still on the verge of awkward, but I'm not too worried.  We don't have the props yet, and that's going to change everything for the better, provided MC doesn't hit ES with the frying pan.

"One Step Closer": 4

This is the only number I'm actually worried about.  Neither GC and CB are amazing dancers, and they're thinking too much about the steps.  However, considering what is was just the day before...

"Kiss the Girl": 6
It's come a long way.  From the chaos on the days we actually choreographed it, to signs of good life.  It's got a long way to go, especially with the four featured dancers, but I'm convinced its going to make it.

We have four weeks of rehearsal left.  We're already doing full run-throughs.  This show is going to be awesome!

-NM