‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’ approaches performance dates

The drama department is gearing up to put on their performance of “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” which will be performed Feb. 28-March 3. It is directed by Sarah Thermond, stage managed by Wren Sutterfield and its instrumental music will be provided by members of the school’s orchestra.

The musical is about a young woman, Millie, who moves to New York hoping to make it big by marrying a person of wealth. Instead, she figures out how to look beyond the surface of a person.

Everyone involved in the musical has been working hard as the performance dates inch closer.

“Rehearsals have been going really well,” said junior Manini Desai, who plays Millie. “We started a little later than usual, so things have felt a little bit rushed, but everything’s starting to fall together. It’s intense, though.”

Every day, Desai must go to rehearsal for three hours. Many other people must consistently do so as well, such as senior Ethan Drohan, who plays Jimmy Smith, a young all-around salesman.

“The rehearsals are every day, and it’s a lot of work, but the cast is really great and so is our director,” said Drohan. “I think the time we’re putting into this is what we need to get it done. Everyone is involved.”

In addition to the time they are dedicating to the musical, both Drohan and Desai will be cutting their hair shorter for their role.

Desai, in particular, will be cutting her hair into a 1920s-esque bob.

“It should be fun. I’m kind of nervous, but I’m sure it’ll be good,” Desai said.

This particular musical is known not only for its singing, but also for the large amount of tap dancing involved.

Sophomore Bridgette Olsen, who is a featured dancer in the musical, said, “[The musical numbers are] tiring and a bit complicated at times, but it’s worth the effort.”

The musical pokes playful fun at romance, skillfully manipulating the dynamics between characters to create a humorous atmosphere.

“My character falls in love with someone called Miss Dorothy,” said sophomore Danny Kawadri, who plays Trevor Graydon, a rich company owner. “However, Miss Dorothy actually falls in love with a Chinese immigrant. Everyone in the musical ends up happy, and I think that’s the best part.”

Both Kawadri and Olsen agreed that “Thoroughly Modern Millie” is a fun, optimistic musical that will definitely be worth watching.

Anticipation is building throughout the school, as the performance dates are coming up.

“I always love going to the musicals, and this one is no exception,” sophomore Maya Ravichandran said. “I’m definitely looking forward to going to see it.”