Life imitates art for the 29 students performing in Caledonia’s production of the musical Fame.
Fame tells the story of hardworking students at a fine arts high school from freshman year to graduation as they look toward their future. The characters include Carmen, an ambitious dancer obsessed with fame, serious actor Nick, overweight dancer Mabel and talented dancer Tyrone.
The cast has been preparing for their production since school started, said co-director Graham Wojdak.
In September, students were taught how to audition, had to show they could sing and perform a short dance and had choir lessons, he said.
They made a major commitment to rehearse six days a week, which includes two hours after school Fridays or four hours on a pro-d day when Wojdak and co-director Geoff Parr aren’t available, but choreographer Katie Parr is there to work with them in the REM Lee Theatre.
“They’re a joy to work with,” said Wojdak, adding that casting involved making difficult decisions because the cast has a lot of talented actors.
Fame: the Musical is on stage Dec. 7, 8, 9 in the REM Lee Theatre. For more details including where to buy tickets, see City Scene below.