Bringing a beloved film like the 1990’s Ghost can be a real challenge. But for a talented group like the ones behind Michigan City High School’s Theater Department, hard work and dedication can get the job done.
“This is my first production in a lead role, with all of my previous roles either supporting or minor, so at times it did get very stressful,” said junior Gwyneth Sardon, who portrays one of the protagonists, Molly Jensen. “Despite the challenges we often faced, everyone in the production banded together and did our best to encourage each other.”
“Ghost the Musical” follows Sam and Molly, a young couple whose lives take a turn for the worst when Sam tragically dies. However, the power of love and the connection it has in people’s lives can transcend life itself, and Sam becomes a ghost.
“In order to get prepared for my role, I try to crack some jokes since my character is very sassy and fun,” senior Sara Poulin, who plays the role of Hospital Ghost #2. “I think acting in a play is something people should try because it breaks you out of your comfort zone and shows you how much effort is put into making a production.”
“As the character Carl, I have to embrace the role of being the musical’s antagonist,” said sophomore Christian McDaniel. “To become my character, I have to see through the villain’s point-of-view and have a deep understanding of his motives and actions. It’s all about putting yourself in that specific mindset.
Production for the show began in June and leading up to the release saw several challenges.
“Even when the going got rough, they all lifted me up on their shoulders and made me feel like I’m the best singer in the world,” said senior Jed Otterson, who plays the main character, Sam Wheat. “The cast, crew, and everyone else involved in this musical have been so incredibly supportive. It has been such an amazing experience.”
The hurdles the cast, crew, and directors all faced made them closer as a result.
“It’s a huge commitment to be a part of a production like this,” said Charles Puetzer, theatre director at Michigan City High School. “This whole show embodies the idea of love and dedication, and the students have demonstrated that they have a passion for the art of theatre.”
You can catch Michigan City High’s theater production “Ghost the Musical” one more time on November 17 at 7 p.m.