A Conversation with Hunchback's Ann McMann-Kotze

Ann McMann-Kotze is a busy professional who is also Vocal Director for the upcoming production of Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame at Lincoln-way East High School April 27-29 (tickets $10 at lwemusic.org)

This is an intense musical with very difficult vocal arrangements. How are you able to get this level of musicality from high school students?

Well, luckily we have a very talented group of kids at East and, besides that, they are already getting a great music education in the choir department so I had a great foundation already laid for our work. I also did a lot of prep work going into the process so I could identify what would be the hardest sections and how best to approach them and use our rehearsal time very well. I also encourage a lot of outside practice and tried to give them resources to help them to that on their own. Many of the kids take private lessons also so that also adds a great deal!

In addition to being a vocal coach and instructor, you have your own professional background as a performer. Does that make it easier or harder to teach high school students?

I have always felt my performing makes me a better teacher and my teaching makes me a better performer. They go hand in hand for me - always have! I enjoy the different challenges of ever age level that I work with - it keeps me on my toes for sure!

What's your favorite piece in the show and why?

That's a hard one!! I love so many of them! Honestly, I don't think I can choose - there are beautiful, moving solos and smaller group numbers and then these gorgeous, sweeping, huge ensemble numbers. This music pushes all my emotional buttons!!

Anything else you want to tell the audience in advance of this spectacular production?

I have performed in over 30 professional musicals and operas in my career. I have worked as musical director or vocal coach on another 20 or so. I make those statements so that one will know that I speak from great experience when I say that this production of Hunchback is very special. It is an epic musical to be sure and this cast and production team could not be more passionate and committed to this production - I am so proud of the work everyone has done! People should not miss this show!!

Thanks so much Ann! People who do not want to miss this show should head on over to lwemusic.org and choose their tickets, or plan to arrive one hour before showtime to purchase for $10 at the door. Showtimes are April 27 and 28 at 7pm, April 28 at 1pm, and April 29 at 3pm. See you there!