Montclair High School (MHS) students in the School of Visual and Performing Arts (SVPA) have curated an old school playlist for its fall showcase, “What The @*%$ Is A Mixtape," beginning Nov. 15. The five-show performance takes a trip down memory lane to the days when a compilation of songs was shared on homemade mixtapes.
This year's showcase is directed by MHS drama teacher and SVPA director Megan Wills with technical direction by Gary Rudoren, MHS architecture and design teacher, and musical direction by Sammy Mellman, MHS music teacher.
The show follows a group of modern-day high schoolers as they learn what a mixtape is and what's involved in making one. Using songs from the 1960s,‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and today, they explore how we can use music to both express ourselves and give a boost to our friends.
"What The @*%$ Is A Mixtape," features MHS student choreography and an all-student pit-band. All the show elements were designed by the students, including set, costumes, lights and sound. Performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, Nov. 15, 16, 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 17 at 2 p.m. at the Little Theater, Montclair High School George Inness Annex, 141 Park St. Tickets are on sale now and are $20 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. The show is performed with one, 10-minute intermission and is expected run two and a half hours.
“Showcase” is an annual event that dates back to the 1980s. While it pays tribute to SVPA’s seniors, the cast includes students from all grades at the High School. About 100+ students are involved in the production, including on-stage performers, a pit band and a full tech crew. SVPA focuses on co-curricular activities that highlight students' skills and talents. Staged events during the year include a fall showcase, winter play and spring musical theater production. In addition to the performing component, the program also provides an outlet for students who want to support the theater as part of the technical crew, including stage design, sound, lighting and more.
