Excitement buzzes through the halls of Independence High School (IHS) as the Theatre Department gears up for their highly anticipated Spring Show, Mamma Mia. However, this year, there's an added element of collaboration that's elevating the experience to new heights. Students from the Career Technical Education Center (CTEC) Video Production Program have joined forces with their theater counterparts to bring the magic of Broadway right into their school.
In a unique partnership, the Theatre Department ventured next door to the CTEC Video Production/Audio Booth Studio to record tracks from Mamma Mia. With the assistance of two talented Video Production students, AJ Romero and Nathan Bischoff, who acted as Audio Engineers, the students embarked on a journey to capture the essence of the iconic musical.
Alison Kolberg, a dedicated educator from the IHS Theatre Department, expressed her gratitude for the collaboration, highlighting its educational value. "I am so grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with CTEC because it gave me the chance, as an educator, to show my students how professionals, how Broadway, prepares for a main stage show," she shared.
For the Theatre students, the experience was nothing short of memorable. Sophomore Alexander McOwen appreciated the state-of-the-art technology and professional environment provided by CTEC. Similarly, junior Noah Burdick, who is also enrolled in the Logistics program at CTEC, felt a sense of pride in showcasing his school to his peers while relishing the opportunity to utilize the audio booth.
The collaborative effort not only enriched the students' understanding of theatrical production but also fostered a sense of empowerment. Kolberg emphasized the transformative impact of the experience, stating, "My students felt empowered by the process and I cannot think of a more deserving group to get to have this experience."
As the curtain prepares to rise on April 11th, 2024, for Mamma Mia, the fusion of talent and expertise between IHS Theatre Department and CTEC Video Production Program promises an unforgettable performance. This harmonious collaboration serves as a testament to the power of teamwork and innovation in the realm of arts education.
