Emerson Theatre Company performs “Disaster!” the Musical on Jan. 22, 23, and 24 at 7:00 PM at the high school auditorium. In light of the upcoming cold weather, audiences are encouraged to purchase or exchange tickets for the opening performance.
What could be worse than a shipwreck, followed by an earthquake that led to a tsunami, hurricane and a series of unfortunate and harmful events? I’m not sure, but this musical includes all the following with song, dance and jazz hands. Emerson Theatre Company invites audiences on Jan. 22 to their opening performance of the unapologetically tragic musical, “Disaster!”
Rewinding all the way back to 1979, “Disaster!” plunges audiences into the grand opening of the floating disco and casino, The Barracuda. Featuring hit songs such as “Hooked on a Feeling”, “I Am Woman” and “Hot Stuff”, “Disaster!” follows a group of high-rolling passengers as they juggle between themes of love, trust and even addiction, when disaster strikes!
While “Disaster!” thrives off its comedic dialogue and satirical elements, the individual character storylines are what truly bring the show to life. The musical explores the complicated lives of Chad Rubik, Marianne Wilson and several other fanciful characters. Katelyn Kennedy, 11, embodies the role of Sister Mary, a passionate and pristine nun, with a not-so-holy relationship with gambling.
“Sister Mary is one of those characters that will make people laugh,” Kennedy said. “She’s righteous and devoted, but also has a big secret I’m not entirely sure if sure audiences are prepared for.”
Mainstage musicals feature complex vocal scores, large dance numbers and a rigorous time commitment from students. Throughout the intense schedule, student leadership is required to make the production possible. Social Media Officer, Hanaa Al-Husseini, 12, serves as the head of publicity and a co-choreographer for the production. While navigating her many responsibilities, Al-Husseini finds success by sharing them.
“We spend a lot of time teaching and cleaning choreography. The dance aspect is a huge part of what makes this musical so iconic,” Al-Husseini said. “The choreographers all try to delegate jobs with each other, and I think our work is going to pay off opening night.”
Behind the disco hits and flashy lights lie months of intense rehearsal, vocal training and student coordination. The demanding nature of the show has pushed the cast and crew to rely on one another more than ever. Jaxan Preston, 11, has greatly contributed to fostering the sense of teamwork and trust that ETC aims to uphold.
“It’s like being on a sports team. We celebrate all the wins and share every loss,” Preston said. “We as a cast are working towards the same goal. We want to sell this show out and invite audiences back every night.”
Tickets for the production can be purchased at etctickets.ludus.com, for the show’s run from Jan. 22 through 24. From shipwrecks to disco anthems, “Disaster!” invites audiences to explore the chaos and comedy while celebrating the actor’s commitment to this upscale production.
“You don’t want to miss it,” Preston said.
