With the winter musical, The Addams Family, looming, the question once more arises: why does the drama department have relatively limited participation? There are numerous answers to be offered; however, one of the more plausible explanations is the “environment” argument. If one is not exposed to an environment (musical theater), then one is less likely to engage in that environment. It makes sense that people brought up with musical theater or similar influences are more inclined to show interest in musicals. Can we as a community bolster more interest in such art?

Another plausible reason behind the lack of buzz around past musicals and plays  could have to do with the choice of the show itself. In recent years, the musicals have been generally unknown to students, so as a result, people were less interested because of the lack of recognition. But this recognition “problem” is not a great explanation: as an example, a couple years ago, the RCDS drama department put on Urinetown: The Musical in the winter of 2019. Many students saw it and thought it was great as the music was energetic, the jokes clever, and the plot interesting. However, going into it, students had no idea what the show was about. With the choice of more well-known musicals, support could grow, and the 2023 musical The Addams Family is a step in the right direction in terms of stirring up interest.

Ms. Henerey provided her insight on the importance of a well-supported and highly-populated drama department in an interview. She discussed the hypercompetitive environment in RCDS in regards to grades and how the drama department is a good creative outlet for students. “It’s a place for you to be creative and open up a little bit and find pieces of yourself that you don’t have on your day to day,” said Henerey. When auditioning or performing, students are opening themselves up to others and might be too timid to join a class or other creative opportunities. Ms. Henerey remarked, “I think people are nervous because of the vulnerability, and I [can bring] it back to being at a school that is very focused on [academic] excellence.” Rather than focusing on being the best at school or winning contests, an improv class or a one-act play can provide students with an unfamiliar non-competitive creative outlet.While there may seem to be less support for the drama department than some other departments, its productions still garner large audiences. For example, last year’s production of Twelfth Night had lots of students in attendance. This year’s production of The Addams Family, currently in the early stages of production, will arrive on the PAC stage on February 10th and 11th. Show the Drama and Dance Department some support and go enjoy this musical comedy!