On May 11-12, “The Drowsy Chaperone” premiered Friday and Saturday night at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday afternoon at 2:00 p.m.
Godwin High School canceled and postponed the planned show and all after school activities on Thursday afternoon due to weather complications.
“The cast was understandably disappointed. However, understanding the flexibility is an essential quality for anyone involved in the performing arts,” said Godwin Director Todd Coolidge.
Coolidge could not have been more proud of his cast and how they dealt with this challenge-responding by delivering a “spectacular opening night show,” said Coolidge, “with having to cancel our show on Thursday and add a Saturday evening performance, our attendance was still quite good.”
In theatre, it isn’t always about the numbers. Most important to a performer is the “responsiveness” of the audience.
Coolidge has completed his second year of directing at Godwin High School and has produced five shows in total.
“I have the great fortune to work with incredibly talented students, creative teachers, like Mr. Clatterbuck, and dedicated group of parents,” Coolidge said.
Godwin Senior, Hannah Welch, was cast as one of the main characters, Janet de Graff, and said, “the character is definitely your typical Hollywood diva.”
Welch also said, “I was able to relate to her character’s overarching dilemma throughout the show; as now that my high school career is over, and my theatre career will likely be ending, as was Janet’s in the show.”
Godwin Junior, Liam Riley, played the part of Feldzieg, the producer of Feldzieg Follies, who will do anything to stop the wedding in order to keep Janet de Graff in the Follies.
“I was partially sick during the last two performances, however, my wonderful cast gave me a tremendous amount of support to help me perform my best, and for that, I am so thankful,” said Riley.
The actors and production team left the production feeling like they had created something truly special.
“I unabashedly believe that we have raised the bar for Godwin Theatre Musicals,” said Coolidge.
