Torrington, WY (by Taylor Bartel) February 1st, 2024 — Torrington Middle School (TMS) students are preparing for their big debut this month. 58 students are involved in TMS’ production of Golly Gee Whiz. Performances will take place on February 20th and 22nd at 6:00pm at the Torrington High School (THS) auditorium. There is no admission cost, but a free will donation will be accepted. All donations will benefit students in the TMS Musical Program for future shows.
6th – 8th graders rehearse 5 days a week for an hour. This year, students are responsible for all of the choreography in this very dance-heavy show. Several of the students have put in many hours of work choreographing 1 or more of the show’s 10 songs. They are then responsible for teaching the choreography to the assigned cast members. Students auditioned prior to Christmas break and the cast list was released the last day of the semester. Students were required to speak lines and sing a solo for their audition.
When asked what the musical is about, Lead Director, Katy Fody said, “Golly Gee Whiz is written by Joann Bogart and Eric Rockwell. Golly Gee Whiz is a tribute to Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland films of the 1930’s and 1940’s. Set in the middle of the Great Depression, the residents of Happyville don’t have much to be happy about! That’s when Mickey, Judy and their crew of towns people decide to put on a show to bring back joy to the local residents. With a whole lot of talent and a little bit of “Golly Gee Whiz” ingenuity, the show will be a success!”
Fody, along with Co-Directors Morgan Von Lintel and Gary Glass are responsible for the selection of the show casting, daily rehearsals and assistance with choreography. Von Lintel is in charge of all set design, costuming, publicity, and assists with daily rehearsals. Lighting and Set Director, Gary Glass, is in charge of all microphones and mapping, music and sound effects, as well as setting and designing the lighting.
Mrs. Fody is currently in her 7th year of teaching Music at TMS. When asked what children gain from music and being involved in a musical, Fody said “Music and the arts are one of the greatest ways to unify kids. Kids from all different walks of life and interests find their place in the music room. When kids walk in my room, we have one purpose – and that is creating music together. My goal through music and through the musical is to create a love for the arts, and introduce students to an interest that they can pursue throughout their entire lives – whether it’s music as a profession or acting in their community theater.”
Image Caption Left to Right: Mattea Walker, Seana Li, Lileth Beck, Aubreeana Briggs, Briella Wolfe
