Returning as a fan favorite, The Drowsy Chaperone, hit the stage this October. A comedic classic, its witty self-commentary and shifting set design will make the show a unique and unforgettable experience.
The show was initially performed at Mitty in 2011. Due to the remarkably positive reception of that performance, Mr. Doug Santana, the music director, hoped someday to bring the production back. The Drowsy Chaperone is different from a typical musical in the sense that it functions as a show within a show. Known as ‘Man in Chair,’ the main character takes the audience through a recording of his favorite musical while providing clever, wry commentary. As the audience watches, the imaginary musical projects its own universe within his apartment.
The show is comedic and self-aware in its commentary, focused on delivering a night of laughter instead of a particularly heavy story. Senior Ben Schultz, who plays the role of the comedic supporting character Adolpho, remarks that this style of storytelling, “lets the show make fun of itself.”
This musical is also particularly unique in terms of execution. Parts of the fictitious mansion setting are depicted within the frame of a small apartment. With various moving parts and sets portraying numerous rooms it becomes a complex feat from a technical standpoint.
For instance, cabinets lining the set in one scene are rearranged to form an airplane in another. As a result, the stage crew—in charge of managing the movement of set pieces, props, and equipment—has an especially involved role. Senior and stage manager Oliver Wu compared its complexity with that of 2022’s The Play that Goes Wrong, which involved a similarly dynamic set designed to purposely break. “This is probably up there with it,” he commented, “in the sense that there’s a lot you need to coordinate on and off stage.”
Furthermore, this musical wouldn’t be as unique without the notable challenges and aspirations of the actors. Senior Miller Rettig, starring as lead Robert Martin, revealed that he had to learn how to tap dance and roller skate for his character. Although difficult, he gave bittersweet remarks on the show’s personal significance as he commented, “I hope to achieve lasting memories. As a senior, these three upcoming shows will be precious as they will be the last for me at Mitty.”
Junior Hannah Greene, playing Mrs. Tottendale, who said that her main goal would be to have the audience walk out of the theater in a better mood than when they entered.
The show’s musicians also have to adapt and work towards making the play happen. One struggle has been adhering to all the tempo shifts. The ensemble’s drummer, junior Adrian Vanderhaegen, said, “It’s hard to keep track of, because it feels like there’s a million different changes in every single song.” Regardless, he finds it rewarding, saying, “I get to work with all the people involved in Orchestra and bond with them. It builds community and makes me into more of a musician.”
Taking on these challenges, the actors and musicians work to make the show truly one of a kind. Everything from the new cast and fresh interpretations to the very nature of the show’s plot promises a unique experience for the audience.