Schools
Summer Theater Workshop Leaves Lasting Memories
37th theater workshop concludes with a showcase what the young thespians learned this summer
Students flaunted their hard work and talent this weekend after five weeks of dedication and practice. The 37th summer theater workshop concluded this summer's program with three performances that involved both singing and dancing.
Inside Matawan Regional High School’s Anne Hannah Auditorium the two act play combined several different methods and included various musical numbers such as “RENT,” “Disney on Stage” and The Beatles.
The workshop, “Memorable Moments,” taught about 150 students dance routines, vocals and stage directions. Some worked behind the scenes as part of the crew, both constructing the stage and working the booth and spotlights.
Find out what's happening in Matawan-Aberdeenfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The summer workshop runs once a year and usually starts the week after school ends. The workshop has children ages 10 to 16, with some of the children from surrounding towns.
“This workshop helps our music program because it keeps them going during the summer months,” said Gerard Wells, one of the directors and band director at the middle school. “Since the kids aren’t in school they put down their instruments down. This keeps them musically active for at least another five weeks. It’s a very positive activity because it builds our theater department as well.”
Find out what's happening in Matawan-Aberdeenfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
“The workshop is to foster our musical theater program here at Matawan,” said Wells.
The show was presented three times throughout the weekend. Turnouth and response has been excellent according to Wells with all three shows selling well.
“I want the kids to have a rewarding experience in theater, music and dance,” said Wells.
One of the best moments for Wells is when the students are on stage, particularly the younger ones, since they are able to perform for the first time in front of a live audience.
“Being a product of this music program as a student myself many years ago, I’m very proud to continue to be a part of it,” said Wells. “Just to be able to pass on my love of music with the students is the entire world to me.”
