To love and create art – that is “Xanadu”
“Xanadu” a popular movie from 1980 was recreated on stage by the students at RHMS and received excellent reviews. Show star Ellie Hill is pictured kneeling. Middle Row from left to right are Elana Opp, Katelyn Cranney and Alyssa Marino. Back Row is Gideon Groom.
Submitted by RHMS student Riley Busch; photo courtesy of RHMS student Mikayla Devin
On April 8, Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) opened its doors to the incoming crowd. For months, the actors, directors, and teachers worked hard to assemble a delightful and touching show, the 1980 hit “Xanadu.”
Throughout the musical, the character Clio, one of the ten Muses of Ancient Greece played by eighth grade student Ellie Hill, is on her quest for the wonderful Xanadu,[] referred to as “the gift of all gifts.” To obtain Xanadu, she intends to inspire mortal artist Sonny, played by eighth grade student Camden Deal. In the process of doing so, however, she falls in love with him, an action that is strictly forbidden. Other side plots and characters made amazing contributions to the storyline, giving it more depth and meaning.
Behind the velvet curtains and bright lights, loads of work was put in by countless numbers of people, most of whom volunteered their time to contribute. Paint crew, tech crew, stage crew, and the actors worked constantly to help create the perfect Xanadu. When asked what his favorite part of the musical experience was, student and actor and Castle Pines resident Seth Bowen replied, “Just everyone coming together. Everyone is so different from one another, but we all come together to create one amazing show.”
Each year at RHMS, the musical is a point of interest for students and staff. Constant buzz may be heard in the hallways. Drama teacher and show director and choreographer Maclain Looper is proud of all of the students who participated in the show. “There are so many reasons students should join. It’s like riding a roller coaster. You get that rush of being on stage. Even if you don’t want to be a lead, you can feel the audience’s presence and applause. It’s something you have to experience at least once in your lifetime,” Looper explained.
Though the storyline did prove confusing, the cast and crew made it clear and easy to follow. Throughout the show, humor and jokes were thrown at the audience. Everyone laughed, especially the parents, most of whom had been there to re-experience 1980 for themselves. Great job to all cast, crew, and directors!
