Hempfield leaders looking at ways for spring musical to go on
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The show must go on — at least as much as it can given the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Officials with Hempfield Area School District are considering ways high school students can participate in the spring musical while adhering to social distancing guidelines and ensuring safety is maintained for students and staff during rehearsals and shows.
“We still want to provide opportunities for our students and this is one that we want to continue to provide, we just know we need to do it in a safe manner,” Superintendent Tammy Wolicki said during Monday’s school board meeting, noting that last year’s performance of “Grease” was canceled due to covid-19 restrictions.
This year, officials are working with Tony Marino, owner of the Greensburg-based Stage Right School for the Performing Arts, to create a safe show. Marino, who worked on four musicals at the district with his first being in 2016, was contracted Monday by the district for this year’s spring musical. He will be paid $3,360.
Over the summer, Marino oversaw the production of “Aladdin Jr.” and “The Rocky Horror Show Live.” Several precautions were taken for the performances, including consulting with a physician to ensure health standards were met and creating an outdoor venue that would be safer for a live audience.
Marino, along with other district leaders, are looking to make some changes to Hempfield’s show, including switching from “Grease” to a more socially distant production that would include fewer partner dances and lead roles that do not need to interact with other characters as frequently.
According to Wolicki, “Grease” also requires special permission to be livestreamed, which would be necessary given capacity guidelines currently in place.
“Mr. Marino has begun to explore other titles that do permit livestreaming so that we can provide a performance,” Wolicki said.
Other safety measures would include having two separate casts that would not practice together, along with multiple performances.
Officials are looking at a performance date in April, although a specific date has not yet been announced. Wolicki noted that she is hopeful a title can be announced at the next meeting.
“I just wanted to make sure that everyone knew we are taking extra steps to make sure it is going to be safe for our students,” Wolicki said.