Thursday, January 5, 2017

FROM HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS TO SISTER ACT WITH THE MASQUE AND MIME SOCIETY

By MIMI BADU 

MIMI BADU FOR WIZARD WEEKLY
The Masque and Mime Society, led by Mrs. Davis, is doing one of her favorite musicals this year: Sister Act, written by Bill and Cheri Steinkellner.  This year marks Mrs. Davis’ 25th year of directing musicals for Washingtonville High School. During her current seniors’ last four years, the club has performed shows such as Bye Bye Birdie, Pippin and Once Upon A Mattress.  Mrs. Davis continues to surprise her students each year with the musicals she chooses because they are all so unique. Choosing shows that the audience is not familiar with is awe-inspiring because members have no idea what to expect during the show.  Each year, Davis selects a show because of its positive message.  When asked why she chooses to do this, Mrs. Davis said, “There is enough sadness and heartache in the world.” With every production Mrs. Davis has done and continues to do, she aims to spread love around the community of Washingtonville. 

Since it’s a very important time in her life as a director, Mrs, Davis decided to choose a show that meant a lot to her and hopes it will mean the same to others. When asked why she chose Sister Act for the musical for her 25th year of being a director, Mrs. Davis said, “I picked Sister Act for a bunch of reasons but the biggest is because of the message of the show.  It teaches about how important it is to respect everyone and spread love and friendship and that’s what really matters- how we impact other people in our daily lives.  The other reason is that there are so many women in it and there are very few shows that have that feature.  With usually four to one woman to me it is hard. This year we happen to have a two to one ration of women to men.” There are so many talented females in Masque & Mime, so for the community to be able to see a musical where women can show what they are able to do when they are rarely given the opportunity is truly amazing.

In honor of Mrs. Davis, her seniors having been working together every week to put together a showcase commemorating both her 25 years and their four years. The cast and crew have come together to perform their favorite shows that have been brought together by Mrs. Davis.  She has impacted our community with her talents and her ability to strengthen students’ performance skills. 


No comments:

Post a Comment