Sidwell’s spring musical, “The Drowsy Chaperone,” will showcase the Sidwell theater department’s depth and talent. Set in the 1920s, the quirky musical, which debuted on Broadway in 2006, follows a man playing his favorite record as the musical’s characters come to life in his home. Known for its technical complexity, the show “provides a wonderful opportunity” to “[challenge] performers to make their characters feel authentic,” director Sentell Harper noted.
“The Drowsy Chaperone” stands out from previous Sidwell productions with its intricate technical demands and unique setting. While these elements present challenges, they were also key factors in selecting the musical. Upper School Technical Director Rebecca Pfeil stated that she “want[s] there to be enough tech that it’s interesting” in each Sidwell production. Given Sidwell’s multiple technical theatre classes and large tech crew, the show offers ample opportunities for creative problem-solving.
Additionally, Harper stated that he “wanted to select a production that would highlight strong acting,” and that The Drowsy Chaperone provides this opportunity. With its blend of technical complexity and strong acting, this year’s spring musical promises to be captivating.
The technical side of Sidwell’s spring musical is multifaceted and requires a group effort. In the weeks before the show, the two technical theatre classes focused on building the set, while the show’s crew concentrated on blocking notes and rehearsal reports, identifying areas for improvement.
Sidwell’s tech crew benefits from the expertise of set and costume designers, who work closely with the technical director and crew to source materials and refine the show’s visual elements. During rehearsals, Pfeil works with the crew so that they can be mostly independent on opening night. Pfeil noted, “I’m on headset in case that crazy thing happens, so I can exit the audience and go backstage, but mostly I’m sitting on headset in the audience, watching and enjoying the show.”
Harper finds “The Drowsy Chaperone” unique because it is “a musical about musicals,” which adds to its charm. He also called the show “quirky and unconventional,” aspects which have challenged the cast and crew.
Harper pointed to Sidwell’s previous production of “Urinetown” as an example of the theater department’s ability to take on bold and eccentric performances. Though “The Drowsy Chaperone” offers a different style and tone, audience members who enjoyed the bold elements of “Urinetown” can look forward to another unconventional production this spring.
The students are the most important part of this production to both the director and technical director. Harper reported that working with student actors is his favorite part of the rehearsal process. “Rehearsals are where the magic happens — we use that time to explore, play and discover those fun, special moments that make the show unique,” he said.
Sidwell’s “The Drowsy Chaperone” musical will be performed from Friday, March 14 to Sunday, March 16 at the Caplin Theater.
