Packed House at Oak Forest High School's Annual Madrigal Feast

The Oak Forest High School Music Department held its 14th Annual Madrigal Feast last weekend. The Madrigal King, played by Senior Tessa Damien, and the Madrigal Queen, played by Senior Amelia Sorenson, presided over the event. The school cafeteria was converted into a castle hall where students sang, acted in dramatic skits, and also played in the band.

The Madrigal is one of the most enduring musical forms in all history. The Madrigal found favor with the Italian noble class in the 16th century. Eventually, the Madrigal found its way to England, where the English put their touch on the art form, which is why the OFHS Madrigal singers and actors wear Renaissance costumes. All members of the English nobility were required to have musical training and often performed Madrigal songs at court.

The OFHS Madrigal Feast was directed by Choral Director Victor Pazik. Band Director Nick Rojek directed the brass ensemble, Teacher Cheryl Harris-Sumida wrote and directed the Madrigal drama portion of the evening and D228 teacher Edgar Gonzalez-Baeza directed the technical portion of the evening. The Madrigal singers were: Amelia Sorenson, Ema Kesler, Jianna Parel, Kinsey Carrera, Cassandra Greenhill, Shaina Spinks, Sarah Boblink, Emily Hendzel, Millie McMahon, Sherelyn Saceda, Tessa Damien, Jackie Griffin, Griffin Boger, Anthwan Rice, Daniel Deane, Nathan McGovern, and Jeremiah Pondexter. The Ladies-in-Waiting Choir was Alyssa Ryan, Annais Gangolf, Alyssa Pacella, Emma Davidson, Shealynn Scott, Alexis Taylor, Madyson Brown, Olivia Lugo, and Kylie Soderlund. The Madrigal Actors were: Tessa Damien- King, Amelia Sorenson - Queen, Ronan Morrissey - Court Jester, Dawn Lubaton - Wench, Jamie Paclar - George, and Maddie McErlean - Jane. The Madrigal Brass Ensemble included: Caleb Armstrong, Audrey Cooper, Connor Mensing, Ivan Czajkowski, Wirado Kornkrasunk, Caroline Lilly, John Nieszel, Daniel Ryan, Jeremy Breese, Katherine Shalloo, Jeremy Pinkowski, Stewart Lilly, Jessica Velazquez, and Noah Walko.

Attendees look forward to this event every year and provide a packed house at each performance. Congratulations to the OFHS Madrigals!