by Herkimer College hosted the Herkimer High School musical, “Bye Bye Birdie,” this year due to construction at the high school. This created its own set of new challenges for the students of Herkimer High School to overcome leading up to curtain call.
The high school students were “very resilient,” according to the musical’s director, Madison Heuser. Despite the challenges the students faced they were able to put on an amazing show.
Rehearsals for the musical began mid-November in the high school auditorium; by mid-December the students started rehearsing in the cafeteria and gym at the high school. “That was a tough couple of weeks for them, just to get used to that change in setting because we’re not on a stage,” Heuser explained.
Another obstacle was the students suddenly needed to apply for the late bus. Younger students who did not have a ride to the college or couldn’t drive had to start signing up for the late bus. Heuser made sure to help students by reminding them, as well as teaching them how to sign up.
For Heuser one of the main challenges was the technical side of theater. “There are so many behind the scenes things that we take for granted here.” Technical things such as mics, lighting, and sound production are so important when producing a musical, but are often overlooked by people who are not directly involved.
The construction of the auditorium is set to be finished by August, though, according to Heuser, she is confident that “They will be prepared if it is not.” Either way Herkimer College is ready and willing to host them again.
Editor’s Note: The author’s sister was a participant in the musical.