“It’s going to be a very elaborate production,” said English teacher and musical director Andrea Gilson.

The roles have all been cast, and rehearsals started October 20 for The Wizard of Oz.

Rehearsals are after school until opening night. The first show is set to take place on January 22.  

This year’s musical features 40 students participating in the show. “I needed multiple spreadsheets to organize it all,” said Gilson. 

Everyone was able to try out for the role they wanted, but cuts had to be made. “We had a large turnout this year,” Gilson explained.

Audition week is a taxing time for the director because many think she makes all the decisions, but that is not the case. 

Four judges, including Gilson, evaluated students who tried out for the musical. If they scored high enough on the rubric, they were called back.

Seven judges listen to the callbacks and determine who should play which role. The judges are all staff members who have experience in theater. 

“We had a lot of talent, especially the younger grades coming in,” said the director. Everyone was encouraged to try out, regardless of whether they had prior theater experience or not.

“I’m excited to be a part of this production, especially because it’s my first year going out for the musical,” said Gabriella Waldrop, a junior at NDA.  She will be part of the ensemble, playing multiple different roles.

“I got cast as the Lion, the role I was most hoping for, and I am extremely excited about it,” said Maxwell Janick, also a junior. This is his third NDA musical and hopefully not his last. 

“I am most excited about the new friends and experiences that make the musical season my favorite time of the year,” Janick went on to say. 

The individuals involved are delighted to bring the show to life, and they are hopeful for a memorable production. All are welcome to watch the show and follow the Yellow Brick Road.