San Marin’s musical theater program is preparing to premiere the musical “She
Loves Me” on Oct. 24, 2024.
“She Loves Me” was originally a book written in 1963 by American playwright, Joe Masteroff.
“‘She Loves Me’ is a classic tale of enemies to lovers. George and Amalia are two parfumerie shop workers who don’t get along,” director Jesse Northen said. “They are constantly at odds, but what they don’t know is that they have been writing anonymous love letters to each other. A great group of other shop workers and characters support them in their journey to discovering who they are to each other.”
Northen illustrates how much he encourages all of his cast to be themselves and to be comfortable while being uncomfortable.
“I try to encourage everyone to think critically and creatively about their roles, and if possible, to step outside of their comfort zones,” Northen said.
Junior Annabelle Brownfield is performing as a supporting character and expresses how she was able to merge her love for singing and dancing in theater.
“I loved the idea of combining singing and dancing into one thing,” Brownfield said. “I started out as a dancer and slowly fell in love with singing throughout the years, and now I get to do both things in theater.”
Many are looking forward to the musical, but the work that goes into making the musical can be intense. Sophomore Jade Stanton expresses the difficulties of acting.
“Weekday rehearsals go until [9 p.m.], so when I get home I have to practice getting the harmonies in the songs right, as well as practicing my lines,” Stanton said.
Director Northen elaborates on what he requires from each one of his students.
“When we go over a scene, the next time we go over it at a future rehearsal, the movement and lines all must be memorized,” Northern said.
Sophomore Cami Cabrera is one of two total female roles in the play, acting as Ilona Ritter, a store clerk. Cabrera enjoys theater and is thankful for how it has helped her as an individual.
“I joined theater as a form of self-expression,” Cabrera said. “Theater has improved me as an individual because it has enabled me to make new connections with others and has improved my public speaking.” In anticipation of opening night, Northen is ready to showcase the musical and have his cast fully prepared.
