BY: MORGAN KILGER, FEATURES EDITOR
Musical theater is coming to St. Bonaventure University. Professor Janell Clingenpeel, a visual and performing arts professor, and Dr. Brian Stevens, visiting professor and director of choral and vocal music, will offer MUS 399: Musical Theatre and Production for the spring semester.
In this course, students will engage in the core aspects of musical theater. Students will also put on a show at the end of the semester. This year’s show will be “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown.”
Keely Reiford, a sophomore sports management major, said she plans on taking the course and auditioning for the show. She said she is excited to get back into the swing of musical theater — something she hasn’t done since high school.
Previously, Reiford has taken part in the plays put on each semester through the performing arts department but misses the singing aspects of musical theater. She said she’s also excited to be part of this project in support of the arts.
“I miss doing musicals,” said Reiford. “I am taking this class to support the arts and to get back into singing musicals, which is one of my passions that I enjoy whether at home or on campus.”
Students who don’t plan on participating in the course said they are still excited about the show next semester. Amanda Ippolito, a junior early childhood education major, said she plans on attending the show in support of the arts.
“I think it is important for all clubs and organizations to earn the recognition they deserve,” said Ippolito. “It also seems like a fun way to support your peers and seeing a new show on campus,”
Tyler Verrill, a junior accounting major, said he plans on attending the production for similar reasons to Ippolito. Verrill is excited for the production due to his interest in musicals, but would be more likely to attend if he knew cast members.
“I have several friends who are music majors, history majors or are generally involved in that realm of interest,” said Verrill. “So if one or multiple of them were participating or helping out with the show, I’d likely be much more inclined to go than if they weren’t.”
Verrill said he is excited to see the production despite not knowing much about it. He said he is confident that the Bonaventure students participating will do a good job.
“While I am vaguely familiar with Charlie Brown , I have not ever actually seen it,” said Verrill. “I have confidence that the show will go smoothly and be performed well.”
Reiford said she’s also excited to expand musical theater to those who may not be exposed to it, As a resident assistant and peer coach, she wants to bring this form of art to her residents and peer kids. She said it’s something that can be used to broaden one’s horizon about the topic.
“My involvement with several clubs, being an RA and a peer coach allows me to expand the interests to those who may not be aware of it [musical theater],” said Reiford.
The stage crew provides an alternative involvement option for students who don’t want to be on stage.
“I think students both performing and running the musical is a great idea,” said Verrill. “It allows them a hobby that they enjoy doing, gives them show experience, or for some might just be a way to get out of their comfort zone. It’s a great opportunity for anyone who has interest in theater or musical performances, and I fully support it.”
