Western’s stage production on tour, radio and Web
by Brian Cohen
In show business, you have to show that you have a show, so the audience will show.
Got that?
Western Albemarle High School (WAHS) drama students are not only rehearsing for their March 24-26 run of “Grease,” but also promoting their production at other venues and in media. Due to mainly to the higher-than-average fees for show rights, the school’s drama department has acknowledged that publicity will play a vital role in filling the seats.
To help create public awareness, castmembers are managing obligations of intensive choreography, vocals and scripts, along with mini-shows at The Lodge at Old Trail (March 2) and Henley Middle School (March 16), as well as live interviews on WINA Radio’s The Schilling Show (March 15). At press time, the cast is hosting a fundraising cabaret, “Broadway In Crozet,” performing numbers from stage and film musicals.
“We are really looking forward to WAHS being here [at The Lodge] next Wednesday afternoon to perform for our residents,” said Piedmont/Seasons Life Enrichment Manager Pamela Jesse. “We’re actually having a ‘50s Day’ to celebrate! Our staff will dress up to get in the spirit! And I’ll be bringing some residents to the Friday night show on the 25th.”
WINA Radio Personality Rob Schilling, who offered to host some of the cast and who has previously hosted on-air interviews with WAHS students, said, “I love having these kids on the show. They work really hard, and I want to support them in any way I can.”
The production is also using new media via its official Facebook fan page (WAHS Drama Presents “Grease”) to publicize their events. Visitors will find post behind-the-scenes video and photos, along with a schedule of events and ticket-ordering link.
The publicity campaign has gathered steam, prompting local personalities and officials to appear in an upcoming video for the Facebook page in the next two weeks. Among them are Channel 19’s Chief Meteorologist Travis Koshko, Rob Schilling and Channel 29’ Anchors Matt Talhelm and Kasey Hott “auditioning” for roles.
For more information about events and tickets, visit the production’s official Facebook page at WAHS Drama Presents “Grease.” Otherwise, tickets can be purchase online at ticketriver.com.
