It is once again time for the Sophomore class to begin preparations for an Asbury staple event, the Sophomore Musical (SoMu).
This year’s SoMu is none other than the beloved Disney childhood classic, Camp Rock. “We put a lot of time and thought into picking a show that made sense for our class,” said SoMu director Isabella Showalter. “The licensing was affordable, there’s over 15 leads, and Camp Rock is a childhood classic for many of us. The Renewed Class always brings high energy and enthusiasm to any events we have, so we wanted a show to match that!”
Showalter served as the Activities Director for the Renewed Class last year and regards that as a special experience where she was able to plan events to help her class grow closer as a community. “Since I’ve been in theater for practically my whole life, I know there’s also a great community that comes from the emotional investment of putting a show together. Getting to combine two of the most rewarding things I’ve ever been a part of was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. I can’t think of a bigger honor than helping everyone involved feel confident in working to the best of their abilities and fostering the kind of community that lifts each other up,” said Showalter.
Auditions for Camp Rock took place on Sept. 11 and 12 and the cast list came out on Sept. 13. The Sophomore class began rehearsals on Tuesday, Sept. 16, with performances being held in the Greathouse Theatre Jan. 14 through 17. “Since opening night is January 14th, we’re faced with the unique challenge of a month-long break right before we perform. The leadership team had several conversations about how to best combat this, and I’m confident in them to keep the show going!”
Showalter has encouraged all members of the Sophomore class to get involved with this project, stating, “There is something for everyone!”
“During auditions, we had students who have never been in theater before and students who have done theater their whole life. There’s also a backstage crew, set design crew and much more. If there’s something a student is passionate about, we can find a way to incorporate it. Plus, this is the perfect opportunity to meet new friends in the class and grow closer to them.”
Rehearsals are now underway, and with performances scheduled for Jan. 14 through 17 in the Greathouse Theatre, the Sophomore Musical promises to be a highlight of the year for the Renewed Class.
Continue reading to see what members of the Renewed class will be featured in this year’s SoMu!
Mitchie Torres — Reagan Labutis
Shane Gray — Caleb Arnold
Nate Gray — Austin Mays
Jason Gray — Isaac Shumaker
Caitlyn Geller — Carlinn Best
Tess Tyler — Laura Graham
Ella Pador — Julia Cox
Margaret “Peggy” Dupree — Bekah Jenkins
Rosie Day — Aliyah Rattray
Barron (Erin) James — Campbell Gorbett
Sander (Sandra) Lola — Ella Edmondson
Andy Hosten — Karis Esley
Brown Cesario — Saylor Sizemore
Dana Turner — Gabrielle Stockton
Luke Williams — William Hansen
Axel Turner — Kai Popp
Georgina Farlow — Anna Anderson
Star Camper 1 — Audrey King
Star Camper 2 — Kaelyn Tappe
Camp Rocker 1 & 4 — Lydia Grace Reagan
Camp Rocker 2 & 5 — Kenzie Young
Camp Rocker 3 & 9 — Suzanne Becksfort
Photo courtesy of Sophomore Class Cabinet.
