Mixing Up Musicals

By: STO Lia Graham, Texas High School, Troupe 2526

    For us thespians, long rehearsal hours and theatre jargon is just what we’re used to. To an outsider, however, our gibberish warmups and unique traditions might seem a bit bizarre. Whether it be playing in the pit or making dance numbers look easier than they are, students in other organizations don’t always get the recognition they deserve but immeasurable in value. Here are a few ways that schools in Texas incorporate other organizations in their musicals. 

“For our school musical, we always have the school’s chamber orchestra play in the pit. It is quite a surreal experience to have live music while performing and get to meet members of other groups.”

• 2021 STO Abi Colburn
  Woodlands HS, Troupe 1053

“Inclusivity is something we have truly focused on. We usually have choir and orchestra participate in the school musical, and it helps people to realize how a team is supposed to work. This year, in our production of Godspell, not only were most of the cast members in both choir and theatre or just choir, but the choir director helped with the musical direction. This helped the theatre students  gain new friends, make meaningful connections, see how other organizations do things, and what it means to truly collaborate.”

• 2020 STO Campbell Lemons, Chair
  Obra D. Tompkins HS, Troupe 7963

“At my school we incorporate other organizations by having the band play the score for us, and the choir director helps with vocals. By doing this, we build a bond between the programs, especially since some kids are a part of at least 2 of these, and a form of mutualism is created.”

• 2021 STO Folarin Oyeleye  
  John and Randolph Foster HS, Troupe 7961

“We have a big musical every year where students from theatre, choir, and dance all come together to create a beautiful show! We love getting to support one another throughout the year, but we love musical time when we can all work alongside one another!” 

• 2020 STO Brenna Kenney
  Rouse HS, Troupe 7679

    Whatever purpose they serve in our musicals, we are so grateful for the dancers, singers and musicians that join to create beautiful works of art. Thank you from the 2020 and 2021 board. 

Keep advocating! 
​Your 2020 and 2021 Texas State Thespian Officers