A Monte Vista High School Production: Mean Girls

By Dylan Reyes, Sophomore at Monte Vista High School

Girls is an iconic movie and a hallmark film of the 2000s. This year, the Monte Vista High School (MVHS) Drama Program tackled the daunting challenge of recreating this well-known satire. The Drama program, which encompasses both on stage performers and behind the scenes contributors, devoted hours of tireless work to hone in on the subtle details that make Mean Girls so enjoyable to watch. The musical was also greatly elevated by the variety of musical pieces played by the MVHS orchestra and band. Mason Gemmer, a current Sophomore and top-notch trumpet player at Monte Vista, described in detail the level of commitment and dedication that went into mastering his pieces. Reflecting upon the preparation that went into the play, he made sure to highlight that it was “a really fun experience preparing for [the play] with the band” (Gemmer). This opportunity gave him a chance to further strengthen existing friendships, while fostering a greater sense of connection among him and his fellow bandmates. The play also allowed for Mason’s individual growth as a musician, as the complex songs that he played helped him refine his craft. Gemmer also acknowledged that the band’s involvement in the play called for a significant time commitment. Leading up to the play, he and his fellow bandmates “would spend hours at home and hours at [Monte Vista],” frequently rehearsing “on Saturdays, Sundays, [and] weekdays,” (Gemmer) to ensure that they perfected the subtle intricacies of each and

Mean

every song. Alex Yang, a current Senior and tenured orchestra member at Monte Vista, shared similar sentiments, mentioning that rehearsals were hosted “multiple times a week” after returning from winter break. However, the orchestra’s commitments also extended beyond school, as they were expected to rehearse outside of school in order to memorize the lengthy “two hour long show, during which [they] played for the vast majority” (Yang). Thanks to the efforts of the MVHS Band and Orchestra, the audience’s experience was greatly enhanced, as their lively tunes added a much needed dimension of vibrance to the production. Among the other essential contributions towards the production were those of the behind the scenes stage crews. While the on stage performers certainly excelled in their respective roles and deserve plenty of recognition, it is also imperative to spotlight the behind the scenes contributors who played an instrumental role throughout the entire process. Erin Yang, a Sophomore and proud member of the Tech crew for the Drama Class, addressed the fact that different crews are responsible for different tasks including properly angling stage lights, diligently curating costumes, and ensuring that transitions are seamless (Yang). Without the efforts of these meaningful off stage contributors, orchestrating the production would have been nearly impossible. And, of course, what is a production without the performers? Michael Cahn, a current Junior and talented Drama Student at Monte Vista played the role of Damian Hubbard, who quickly befriends the main character, Cady Heron, upon her arrival at her new school. Michael did a flawless job capturing the fun and boisterous personality of Damian, learning to “embrace the role,” while having the “most fun that [he] has ever had on stage” (Cahn). He also appreciated how his starring in the role of Damian enabled him to “explore a different side of [himself]--one that is more loose and relaxed” (Cahn). Michael also made it a point to recognize all of the hard work that went into the production before discussing what makes the Monte Vista Drama culture so special. Cahn proceeded to describe the supportive and uplifting community which motivates Drama students to “put their best foot forward,” while striving for excellence. More than anything, Michael admires how the Drama Program is “one of the groups on campus that is inseparable and that has so much fun together...A family” (Cahn). As the old saying goes, “a team is greater than the sum of its parts.” The drama productions at Monte Vista certainly embody this mantra, engaging a variety of groups on campus, while fostering a greater sense of community.

Dylan Reyes is a current Sophomore at Monte Vista High School. He is a first time author for the publication who loves creative writing. At Monte Vista, Dylan is an active member within his school community serving as a Sophomore officer in the Leadership class. Furthermore, Dylan is a proud Filipino American who sought to enrich the student body when he founded the first Filipino American Student Union at his school. Dylan’s role in the Danville Youth Council also allows him to stay updated about the latest news within our town. In his free time, Dylan enjoys talking about and playing basketball with his friends, playing fantasy football, and podcasting, a more recent hobby of his. Dylan is excited to pursue this writing opportunity and looks forward to highlighting all of the positive developments at Monte Vista High School and the Blackhawk Community at large.