For the past few months, Spring Grove students, across multiple schools, have been rehearsing for the 2025 spring musical, Meredith Wilson’s The Music Man. The musical takes place in 19th century Iowa, specifically in the fictional small town of River City. Con-man Harold Hill rolls into town, looking to earn a few bucks selling non-existent band instruments to townspeople, telling families that if their children join the marching band he’s “making”, they’ll stay out of trouble after school. The only one who doesn’t believe this ruse is town-librarian, Marian Paroo. Throughout the show, Harold attempts to convince her that he’s telling the truth by romancing her. Very slowly, Marian begins to fall in love with him, and he with her. What happens when the townspeople find out he’s been lying about everything? What happens when Marian finds out? Come see the show Feb. 28, March 1, or March 2 to find out!
When interviewed, cast members were asked one of the following questions: What has been your favorite part of the rehearsal period so far? Why should people come see this show? What is your favorite song/musical number from the show? What do you hope audience members take away from the show?
Senior, Lucas Buhrman (Harold Hill) answered question 3 and said, “I’ve really just loved learning all of the motions and stuff for 76 Trombones. I mean it’s just so fun marching around the stage and mimicking band instruments.”
Junior, Addison Buffalow (Marian Paroo) answered question 3 and said, “My favorite musical number of the show is Shipoopi. I love all of the dancing and excitement.”
Senior, Maia Dayett (Mrs. Paroo) answered question 1 and said, “My favorite part of rehearsal has been learning the dance for Shipoopi. Everyone has been so energetic and it’s always fun and productive.”
Sophomore, Bryan Myers (Olin Britt) answered question 4 and said, “The story shows a town coming together, and I think it’s such a great thing to see people coming together like that and being unified. I think we can take a lot from that.“
Senior, Sky Beck (Eulalie Mackecknie Shinn) answered question 3 and said, “In terms of song, it’s Lida Rose. It’s just so pretty. The harmonies are crisp and they would be incredibly fun to perform. In terms of musical numbers that I DO perform, I love Pick-A-Little, Talk-A-Little. Although it’s very physically demanding, it’s so much fun to bounce around the stage and sing like I’m gossiping.”
Chloe Braden (Vocal Director of the musical) answered question 3 and said, “My favorite number in the show is Shipoopi! It’s a fun, high-energy number with lots of dancing! It showcases our entire 75 person cast in an amazing way.”
Sophomore, Reese Shamer (Maud Dunlop) answered question 3 and said, “My favorite song/musical number has to be Pick a Little Talk a Little! Although it’s extremely fast-paced and physically demanding, I think it’s a fun and engaging dance I love getting to be apart of.“
Junior, Raegan Shrader (Pick-A-Little-Lady) answered question 3 and said, “I like Shipoopi! I like the dance because there’s a lot of energy.”
Sophomore, Amelia Messinger (Pick-A-Little-Lady) answered question 1 said, “My favorite part of rehearsal has been staging It’s You as a pick a little lady! It’s very fun and it’s random and silly.”
As you can see, the cast has been working incredibly hard (and having a lot of fun!) working on this show! Be sure to come out Feb. 28, March 1, or March 2 to see all of their hard work! Tickets are on sale now online and in the front office, and are available for purchase at the door upon arrival.
