“I just want to thank and congratulate the cast and crew for putting on a wonderful show,” said Hoban Theatre President Abigail Chirdon, reflecting on her recent performance as Sarabi in The Lion King Jr. at Archbishop Hoban High School.
As an audience member, I can confirm Chirdon’s statement that the production was truly wonderful. Watching my peers perform on Sunday, Nov. 3, following two Saturday shows, was an absolute joy.
The fall musical had been months in the making. “The cast started prepping for the fall musical the second week of school in August,” Chirdon said. Every member was deeply involved in the production’s many intricate details. From extravagant costumes to the impressive contraption that served as Pride Rock, props and even stilts were used in various creative ways throughout the show.
Chirdon shared how her role as president offered a unique perspective, seeing her cast and crew through a lens of leadership. “Everyone comes to you when they have questions, or something goes wrong,” she said. The bond among the cast members was evident, bringing energy and life to the stage and enhancing the audience’s experience.
This year’s production welcomed fresh talent as numerous freshmen joined the Hoban Theatre family. Freshman Taryn Dotson, an ensemble member, shared her initial nerves and eventual excitement. “It was overwhelming at first, but everyone was so welcoming, and I never left practice feeling like I hadn’t improved in some way that day,” Dotson said.
Dotson praised the positive and supportive environment fostered by Hoban Theatre and looks forward to continuing her journey with the program. Both she and Chirdon are eagerly anticipating the upcoming spring musical, High School Musical, and are excited to step back into the spotlight.
If you missed the fall musical Knights, “get your head in the game” and catch the spring show!
