Hunchback of Notre Dame” Three Years in the Making

The production is three years in making, as director Perviz Sawosoriginally auditioned and began rehearsals on the musical at the beginof 2020, before production was forced to be put on hold. Half of the including Booker, is returning afthree years.

was really bummed when we weren’t able to do it,” said Booker, who dedicating his performance to his mother. “It great to be This is my letter to mom.”

The titular hunchback is played by two students, Elliott Moore Brayden Handwerger. Both stuwill alternate playing the role, giveach actor three nights to perform. “It’s certainly different, but I’ve honenjoyed the process,” Handwerger “It’s kind of cool to get to see how another person takes the role on. It’s a nice process.”

The musical tragedy is balanced by diverse performances of its leads. Quasimodo’s high spirit and hunched stature contrasts Frollo’s controlled rigidness and elongated posture. Sindel brings a generous heart guarded by sultry charm to Esmerelda.

“Every character has their own little micro-themes. They leave no stone unturned in that regard,” Handwerger said.

SMC Chamber Choir, directed by Dr. Jeremiah Selvey, stands behind a sheer screen adorned in red cloaks as they sing the chorus throughout the show. Sawoski explained this was the choir’s first time collaborating with the theater department since she has been at SMC and said “it’s a dream.”

“It’s kind of exciting because we all work in our own individual bubbles all the time, and it’s nice to see the work that each other is doing with the students,” Selvey said.

While “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” is filled with flashy dance numbers and an intricate score, it is also embedded with history. The leading lady, Esmeralda, is referred to as a “gypsy” in the show which has now been deemed a slur. The correct term, as explained by

Sawoski, is “Roma.” Sawoski, who was born in India, writes the history of the Roma in her director's note located in the program.

“They are not that much discussed, so it’s important to me that they are acknowledged,” Sawoski said. “I’m not that culture, I just happen to be born in that country, but, you know, I feel sort of connected with that.”

Booker said he is excited to play a complex villain, and feels the tale of Quasimodo and Esmerelda is a story that everyone can relate to. He believes that the musical is a great introduction into the theater world for any newcomer looking to see their first show.

“This is one of the most talented casts I’ve seen for a local production,” Booker said. “I feel like if you’ve never seen a theater production before, this is probably something that would make you fall in love with theater.”

“The Hunchback of Notre Dame” will have its final three performances on Friday, April 7 and April 8 at 7:30 p.m. with a matinee on April 9 at 2 p.m. The production will be in the Theater Arts building on the Main Campus, and tickets can be purchased at www.smc.