Welcome 2 the World
Theatre Workshop's third production. Presented in December, 1996.
The second year begins with two sections of the class now being offered- during period 2 and period 6. Each class works on their own acting scenes and dances, as well as learning and auditioning with each other for places in certain larger dances and musical numbers. For the first time, the show is presented to a full auditorium using wooden platforms in the orchestra pit as a stage extension for the actors, allowing more students to participate. The show is again presented in two acts, but with many more pieces included than in the first year. The show is presented during two evening shows, as well as four daytime assemblies. The theme of this show is a childs journey through life, from birth on. Student reflections are used in the show to express some of the pain and hardship that the students have actually faced in their own lives spoken by the students directly to the audience. The dances become more challenging and sophisticated, attempting to not only entertain but to send a message and portray emotions. Students learn to present the scenes and spoken word sections with more projected voices and clear enunciation.
Highlights include: "Numb" an experimental movement piece performed by 25 students on chairs; a quinciniera scenario, complete with a family drama sequence and a full scale waltz dance; "You Beat Me to the Punch" - a comedy mime piece; "Summer Nights" the exciting song and dance number from Grease; and our own version of the song "Seasons of Love" from the show Rent.
A half hour version of the show is entered in the annual University of LaVerne high school theater competition and wins two major awards "Outstanding Production" and "Outstanding Ensemble".