Warren HS to stage 'High School Musical'

Disney Channel's smash hit musical "High School Musical" is coming to life on Warren Township High School's stage this week.

The show focuses on a high school jock, Troy, and a nerd, Gabriella, who, while on their family vacations, discover they both love singing. After winter break, they decide to try out for the high school musical but their friends try to stop them. The show focuses on issues of popularity, first love, balancing education with extracurricular activities and the value of friends and family.

This highly energized show includes a cast of around 60 students, and will provide lively entertainment for both children and parents alike.

Director Sarah Brandt, with the help of the talented directing team, has integrated a few special features to give this show a unique quality from the movie version. But the cast and crew did stay true to many song and dance numbers for the fans of HSM.

"The characters and plot lines are the same, and there are some fun new songs and dances," said Marissa Vlaming, who is cast as Sharpay.

The crew is comprised of over 20 students, who along with the cast built the set under the technical direction of Jim Neal. These dedicated students have spent much of their free time on the production and have gotten more than just an onstage experience. They also learned how to run the technical aspects of theater by operating the light and sound boards, as well as worked backstage, moving sets and props during the show.

The live instrumental music is provided by members of the WTHS band, lead by pit director Kurt Gros. The show is filled with popular hits like "Get'cha Head in the Game," "Stick to the Status Quo," "Bop to the Top" and "We're All in This Together."