What's The Next High School Musical Classic? — Page 2

Although not a Broadway hit, I think Seussical may become a classic on the Highschool and Community theatre stage.

Into the woods has had big success in my area. Beauty and the Beast is big now in community theatre. I think Spelling Bee will be the next big thing. Also shows that do not require big leads, with all memebers rather equal, ie: Spelling Bee, You're a Good Man Charlie Brown, Urinetown, etc.

I know a lot of people have mentioned "Hairspray," but I'm putting my vote in for "Beauty and the Beast." My high school just did a production of it and I know several other high schools around the area have done it as well. It's got catchy songs, a family friendly plot, and, most importantly, it's Disney!

My school does a musical revue every spring where the kids (and even teachers) can pick songs of their choosing to perform. Two of our strongest female singers have already announced they want to do "Defying Gravity" or "For Good." I'm already a little scared.

Spelling Bee will be HUGE with highschools.

The point of this thread should be no what shows will be done, but will be done well.

High schools and Aida? Hmmm..gawd no. Wicked?..shudder to think. At least Les Miz had the good sense to change keys.

Millie will be a high school fav, but over all a boring show. Same for Sussical..a show in search of one plot. But the shows are so unoffensive, they'll fly.

DG - the rights to AIDA are out.



I think it really depends on the talent at the school.

Millie
Mamma Mia
fiddler

...probably all could be done.

Which high school boy is going to play Edna Turnblad?

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Also, in regards to Aida, there's going to be an Aida: School Edition. A couple of people on these boards are going to be in the world premier.

What about Oklahoma?

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Hell, I would be Edna! It's a fun part!
BUT Nobody has mentioned "All Shook Up."
That would be a PERFECT show for high school!
any thoughts?

As a long-time high school director, I would have to say Millie and B&B are the only shows that have been discussed here that will turn into big h.s. choices.

I think Hairspray and Producers, and especially Rent, would not be good. Maybe if some school had liberal-thinking parents and administration, but that is usually not the case.

As for spelling bee, I don't see that as a big choice either because the cast is too small. HS productions have to accommodate large groups. Shows with bigger ensembles usually are chosen.

Unfortunately though, I do think schools will try Wicked because of its popularity with the younger generation. I don't think it will be done well in too many places though!

I see Millie working the best.

Hairspray,

I have this theory about certain shows like Joseph, Footloose, Grease, that the highschool productions of these particular shows are actually more enjoyable than any professional productions. These are what I call "Pizzaz" Shows, where the high level of energy and raw talent that a high schooler can bring is more important than the technical skil that adults cast in the roles will bring. I think Hairspray fits the mold perfectly. I think this show has so much energy and heart that the material will soar when given to high schoolers. My only doubt is the racial diversity of most schools.

Other ones I think will become staples of high schools:
Aida
Beauty and the Beast
Thoroughly Modern Millie
Little Women
MAYBE Spelling Bee (for those high schools that do Fame without cutting "Can't Keep It Down")

Akiva