Pam Berrios with sons William Pineda, Senior and Christian Pineda, Junior. Pam Berrios encourages everyone in the community to come out, whether or not one has kids at the school. “It’s important to support not just the school and fundraising help, but it helps the school and the kids” spend their time constructively. Alexandra Tecco
Springfield — Two hundred-twenty people came out to enjoy School of Rock on opening night, Thursday, Nov. 17. The performance marked the first of the Hayfield Dramahawks main stage performances. The high-energy show started with a blast of a fog machine, to create the wispy air reminiscent of rock concerts while the signs framing the stage proclaimed “School of Rock” alight in red letters, shining once the theatre went dark.
During intermission the play and the performances by the Dramahawks in particular was praised by Brian Collison, father of Zack Collison who portrays Billy, the stylist, in the show. “It’s all family oriented, so many families show up… but it’s also something everyone can be a part of,” Brian Collison said. Leah Collison, 7 of Island Creek Elementary, enjoys the show because when her brother, Zack, would rehearse at home “he would dance with (her).” Adam, 11 of Island Creek Elementary, enjoys the show because of the catchy rock and roll music which encourages dancing in general.
After the performance friends and family, many carrying bouquets of flowers, waited for the performers to congratulate them on the first of six shows in the series. Pam Berrios congratulated her sons, Cristian Pineda, a Junior, and William Pineda, a Senior. Both actors were still in their costumes. “It’s fun to express your feelings and have a chance to entertain people,” explained Christian Pineda.
Dramahawks Theatre Director Pat Mitchel hopes that the audience size grows. Not only is it an unusual opportunity to see a currently running Broadway show off Broadway and at a price one can bring the whole family to enjoy, but it is the first school year fundraiser to help the Dramahawks fund their trip to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the honor to attend something the Dramahawks won last year, explains Mitchell.
For the actors, pure glee was seen in the theatre’s lobby. “It was amazing,” explains Trish Hoang, Junior, who plays lead-singer Tamika in the show. “I feel on top of the world, my energy is just at a peak,” says Cara Bradley, Junior , who plays Summer, the band manager.
The remaining shows of School of Rock are playing at Hayfield Secondary School Dec. 1, 2 and 3 at 7 p.m. with a 2 p.m, matinee on Dec. 3. Tickets are $10 at the door.