The Masco Theater Company proudly attended the preliminary round of the Massachusetts Educational Theater Guild (METG) and left feeling victorious. They were one of four schools that advanced out of eight at their site at Saint John’s Prep.
This is the third year the theater company competed at the METG festival. However, junior assistant stage manager and treasurer Delaney Ogden said that this year was a little different.
“The energy this year is so much higher, and there is so much more unity than in the past. I feel like everyone is giving their all and is excited for every single run,” said Ogden. “In previous years, we’ve done incredibly heavy shows, and yes, this show is heavy, but it also allows us to celebrate theatre and early performances while remembering such a tragic event.”
Director and Choreographer Brian Pereira agreed with Ogden that while the setting is the same, the community and emotions differ greatly.
“This year’s festival feels much smoother and less stressful, as we’re now familiar with the process and how everything works,” said Pereira.
The stakes are high to make it to the final round, however, the company is enjoying the time they have together and is not wasting a minute. The officers planned a McDonald’s run after rehearsal to bond even more.
“Our big company bonding event is always our McDonald’s trip. It’s such a fun opportunity to connect and laugh outside of the rehearsal space,” said Ogden.
After long rehearsals and emotions running high, it is nice to debrief and hang out as a company without the added stress.
For junior Sarah Pellizzaro, who is part of the dance ensemble and serves as a movement captain, her first festival experience was truly memorable.
“My favorite part was bonding with my cast and crew throughout the whole process. It was so much fun to work on stage with the actors and my fellow castmates, but it was also so much fun to work with the tech people who are behind the scenes to create the best possible show,” said Pellizzaro.
Being able to perform for the first time in front of a festival audience is special. The crowd is so welcoming and always goes along with the show; whether they are laughing or crying, being in that room gives you a glimpse of how theater should be interpreted.
“The most surprising part of the whole process was how much support we got from the other schools during prelims and how nice people were. Everyone supported each other and wanted to make new friends,” said Pellizzaro.
Before the semi-final round of competition, Pereira is prepared to make some changes to the show to make it as clear and concise as possible.
“To prepare for the semi-final round of competition, we are refining and adding to the show to make the story more concise while also giving the audience a deeper connection with the characters,” said Pereira.
In previous years, the home show has been after the semi-final round, however, the new earlier date is helpful to workshop new aspects of the show before the next competition.
“ Having the home show before the semi-final round allows the company to implement these changes in front of a live audience. It gives us the opportunity to hear their reactions and gather valuable feedback before the competition,” said Pereira.
Circus Fire’s home show is at the Masconomet Auditorium tonight, March 7, at 7 pm. Tickets are $10 and available at the door.