Each spring, members of the Newman Chorale and Troubadours spend hours learning dance routines, volunteering in the theater shop and memorizing selected melodies — all in preparation for the final music production of the year.
“Something About This Night” centers around love and relationships and is the 14th show that has been co-written by Newman Director of Music Deanne Zogleman and Phil Speary, dean of academic support and effectiveness at Butler Community College.
“This world needs love and happiness right now, so I decided to focus on one of the happiest events in life — falling in love and marriage,” Zogleman said.
Zogleman and Speary keep the song selections unique with each musical, but Zogleman said she has a special love for contemporary Broadway music that “speaks to the heart.” Audience members of all ages can look forward to classic rock, a “Disney moment” as well as an acapella arrangement.
“I’m really looking forward to the ‘If Only’ quartet because of how beautiful it sounds and the costumes that go with it,” freshman Richard Avelar said. “For the dance number, ‘Raise the Roof’ has my heart because of the salsa-style dancing we get to do.”
Avelar said his first experience with the spring show has been “a blast.”
“Being able to give meaning to the songs we perform really makes the production come to life,” he added. “‘Something About This Night’ has a modern style with an easy-to-follow plot and will be relatable to audience members whether they are 17 or 70 years old. Most, if not all, of the songs are very recognizable and it will be hard for guests not to sing along.”
Zogleman preaches to her students that they are not just “divas on stage,” she said.
“I want them to know every aspect of putting a production together,” she said. “So not only do they learn the music, dance and lines for the ones who have speaking parts, but also each student logs at least three hours of tech time working with Dan Williams (technical director and designer) on building the set. It is truly their show in every aspect.”
Senior Troubadour Blake Lee has been a part of the Newman Chorale for all four of his undergraduate years, and says he is excited to see his hard work come full circle.
“Three years ago, I was the young freshman that was a follower and finding my way through the spring show like a kid in a maze,” Lee said. “Now I’m that leader that is stepping up and showing people how we work in the music department and how we make this incredible spring show possible.”
Through all his “ups and downs,” Lee said he would not be half the man he is today were it not for two of his amazing mentors: Zogleman and Instructor of Piano/Organ Player, Carole Pracht.
“We talk about being a family and in all reality, we really are one,” Lee said. “All of my closest friends have come to me through Troubadours, and I’ve built lifelong relationships through this group.”
Zogleman says it is a blessing to share her passion for musical theater with such talented students.
“People don’t realize how hard these students work,” she added. “It’s always a joy to work on this production, so I hope everyone will make time to come relax and enjoy this high energy show.”
All performances will be held in the DeMattias Performance Hall:
- 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 2
- 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 3
- 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 4
Ticket prices:
- Adults, faculty and staff : $15
- Non-Newman students (college age and below): $5
- Newman students: Free with student I.D.
For more information, contact Zogleman by email at [email protected] or by phone at (316) 942-4291, ext. 2196.
