Merrillville High School welcomed guests Friday night to join them for their second weekend showing of Phantom of the Opera.
To say the show was extraordinary would be an understatement! From the cast, to behind the scenes, to the notable teachers and helpers; everyone involved was full of enthusiasm.
Click here for all the amazing photos from Merrillville High School's Phantom of the Opera!
Scarlet Smith, playing Christine Daae expressed her passion about being part of this outstanding group.
“We’ve been rehearsing since January,” Smith said. “This is one of the main plays other than Scrooge and Spring Musical. What I love most about this performing arts group is that we’re the hardest working theater in the area. The fact alone that we’re doing Phantom of the Opera is huge! Very little Broadway shows even do it. It’s had a huge turn out so far, it’s a beautiful experience; I’m very proud to be part of the program.”
Katie Solina, stage crew and assistant choreographer said, “My favorite part about working here is the people; everyone is like one big family. Everyone is super talented and hardworking. They deserve the best.”
Choral Director Melinda Reinhart talked about how big of a production this is.
“Phantom here at Merrillville high school is not a watered down high school version,” Reinhart said. “It’s quite a big undertaking. I have quite a few outstanding voices in my choir this year, so we’ve decided to bring Phantom back; Phantom has never been done in this area except by us. In fact, the 2011 cast is in town, they’ve decided to have a reunion and we are expecting them for our Sunday performance. We have a very large orchestra- 40 pieces included- and a large cast; very few high school auditoriums and even community theaters can handle this large of a production. We do things big here.”
Madalyn Lathrop was an avid supporter of tonight show.
"My fianceé, Jake and I came tonight to see the kids that are in our youth group from church,” Lathrop said. “So far we heard that last weekend was great and we’re looking forward to tonight’s show!”
If you’re looking to see a Broadway-level show, you still have time to attend Merrillville High School’s Phantom of The Opera. There are two shows left; Saturday March 28th at 7:30pm, and Sunday March 29th at 3pm. Tickets are $10 for adults, $9 for Senior Citizens and Students, and $8 for Children under 12. This production is sure to be one to remember!