‘10 Years Later’
Gila Ridge drama commemorates decade of shows
The students of Gila Ridge High will dance their way through a decade of musical theatre material Jan. 11 to celebrate the school’s first 10 years of existence.
The 40-member cast will perform 20 student-choreographed musical numbers in the show, which is titled “10 Years Later.” The musical numbers will feature groups both large and small, and will pull from popular favorites previously produced at Gila Ridge, including “Grease,” “Hairspray,” “Little Shop of Horrors,” and “Legally Blonde.”
The show starts at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 11, and tickets are $5 pre-sale or at the door.
The cast is made of up freshman-seniors, and this will be their fifth show of the year, following offerings in the melodramatic, improv, and comedic traditions. Not only is the performance and choreography student-driven, but the tech crew is also all students.
Theater teacher Keith Lockhart is in his second year leading the program, and hopes area residents and visitors will take advantage of this entertaining opportunity.
“This show really offers something for everyone: high-energy dance numbers, sweet ballads, and toe-tapping songs. The students always surprise me with their humor and energy, and we’d love to share it with theater lovers across Yuma,” said Lockhart.
A drama club, which meets Thursday, complements the class, and gives students opportunities for leadership and performance development. Senior and Drama Club copresident Desiree Quiroz says this show is really stretching the cast.
“It’s fun to watch people work outside of their comfort zone. I can tell we’re getting better as a team. This should be a really fun show.”
Quiroz shares the presidency of the Gila Ridge Drama Club with three other students: Sylvette Perez, McKay Lockhart and Mitzi Hernandez.
Future shows for the group, with title yet to be announced, are scheduled for March 1, April 19 and May 11. Stay in touch with the group on Facebook and Twitter, under GRHS-Drama Club.