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BEHIND THE SCENES AT MICHAEL, A MUSICAL
BEHIND THE SCENES AT MICHAEL, A MUSICAL
By Nancy Skochdopole
The answer to this question (and many more) is revealed in "Michael, A Musical", Saint Michael’s 75th Anniversary Celebration on Friday, April 22, 2022 in McFarlin Auditorium on the SMU campus. Guided throughout the show by Saint Michael and his three Archangels, Gabriel, Raphael and Uriel, Michael, A Musical features nine show tunes highlighting our wonderful church’s past, present and future.
Did you know that in the church's early days, a beloved tradition was born called The Saint Michael Musical? The shows were performed at the annual parish meetings in an effort to boost attendance! They were written and performed each year by a group of dedicated parishioners and offered up a healthy dose of fun and parody centered around parish life. It's been over 30 years since the last parish show so we thought what better way to honor our past and celebrate our future than to resurrect the show as part of Saint Michael's 75th Anniversary Celebration!
The concept to celebrate the church’s 75th anniversary in this way began in early 2020. After consulting with parishioner Bill Johnson and others who produced or performed in the original Saint Michael shows, a small group of writers including Lydia Addy, Jeff Rice, Elizabeth Showalter and Jim and Nancy Skochdopole, began developing a script and lyrics in the summer of 2020. By summer of 2021, the show was ready to cast and auditions were held.
Over 30 years later we remain a talented parish of actors, singers, dancers, set and costume designers, lyricists, and more! Michael, A Musical will be performed by a multi-generational cast of over 50 Saint Michael parishioners! Weekly rehearsals began in late September. If you happened to be up at Church on a Sunday afternoon this fall and heard some lively singing and toe tapping emanating from the Parish Hall, then you’ve already gotten a taste of what’s in store for everyone next April!
Our company ensemble is led by a trio of talented professional directors: Saint Michael’s own Ashley Westgate as Musical Director, Jacque Gavin as Director, and Beth Wortley as Choreographer. Longtime parishioner Bill Johnson is our Honorary Producer. Together, this creative team has directed countless plays and musicals throughout Dallas and we are fortunate to have their expertise and enthusiasm on this project. There is no charge and tickets are not required to attend Michael, A Musical! Seating will be on a first-come basis. Following the show, you’ll have the opportunity to gather together to congratulate and celebrate the entire cast at The Michael Cast Party. This party is sponsored by the Women of Saint Michael and will be held at SMU’s Mack Ballroom, a short walk from McFarlin Auditorium. More information on how to reserve your place at the party to follow in February 2022.
