Each Monday between now and the opening of Sister Act! we will highlight one of the seniors who will be taking the stage on March 26th through the 29th (7pm, 7pm, 7pm, and 2pm). This week we will be highlighting Lucy Bierman, the daughter of Ben and Jill Bierman who will be portraying Deloris Van Cartier.
Which musicals have you been in at NCHS, and which characters/roles did you play?
Throughout my middle and high school years, I have been actively involved in school theatre, growing as a performer with each production. In sixth and seventh grade, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I was a member of the children’s choir in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. The following year, as an eighth grader, I continued my involvement in musical theatre as part of the children’s choir in Beauty and the Beast. As I began my high school career, I took on a leadership role as dance captain in Mamma Mia. During my sophomore year, I earned my first lead role, portraying Aunt Eller in Oklahoma!. In my junior year, I performed in the fall production of SIX as Catherine of Aragon and later appeared in the spring production of Newsies, where I played the roles of Buttons and Hannah. Now, as a senior, I am honored to have been cast in the lead role of Deloris Van Cartier in Sister Act.
What was your favorite musical and why?
My favorite musical experience was Oklahoma!. This production introduced me to the opportunity of stepping into a lead role and performing alongside many close friends while portraying an older character who frequently provided comedic relief. Taking on this role helped me discover my love for performing and pushed me to step outside of my comfort zone on stage, ultimately shaping my confidence as a performer.
What scene in Sister Act is your favorite and why? (This does not have to be a scene you are in)
My favorite scene is Scene 8, where Deloris realizes the meaningful family she has found at the Queen of Angels Church. In this moment, her kind and grateful nature truly emerges, expressed through a powerful and heartfelt song that highlights her personal growth and deep sense of belonging.
What are three things being in the musical has taught you, and how have you learned these?
Musicals have taught me many lifelong lessons, but the three most important are to be yourself, take pride in what you do, and live in the moment. During the audition process and while earning a role on stage, some people look for any possible way to secure their place. But being truly yourself is what earns you a place not only on the stage, but in the world.
Being involved in musicals isn’t always the most popular activity at Newton Community High School, but one thing theater has taught me is that taking pride in what you love can show others that going against the status quo isn’t such a bad thing. I take pride in every musical I am part of, and nothing could ever change that.
After eight musicals, I’ve learned just how quickly a season comes and goes. You spend three months working tirelessly to bring a production to life, and then once you finally perform it, it’s over in what feels like an instant. There were many times I complained about the long rehearsals and stress, but the moment I step onto the stage during show week, I take it all back. Now, as a senior, I realize I will never again perform on this stage with these people or learn from these directors in the same way. That’s why choosing to live in the moment has been the most meaningful decision I’ve made this musical season, as I close this chapter of my life.
What are two pieces of advice you would give young people who want to start performing in musicals at NCHS?
Shoot high. As a freshman, I auditioned for a lead role. Did I get it? No. But taking that risk pushed me out of my comfort zone and gave me the confidence and experience that eventually led to the lead roles I earned in the years that followed. Sometimes the biggest growth comes from the moments that don’t go our way. Shooting high also means going above and beyond in whatever role you’re given. Every part matters. A musical is a huge commitment, and you truly get out of it what you put into it. When you give your best effort, support your cast, and fully commit, you not only grow as a performer but you also grow as a person.
What qualities do you see exemplified in the adults who help put on this show that you will take with you as you leave NCHS, and how do they demonstrate these qualities?
Determination. The process of creating everything that goes into a musical performance is truly incredible. The costumes, sets, lighting, and countless moving pieces all require an enormous amount of time, effort, and dedication. The people working behind the scenes bring these productions to life with such commitment that they make something so complex look effortless. Watching their hard work and determination has left a lasting impact on me. Their example inspires me to give my best in everything I do and to approach challenges with the same level of passion, perseverance, and pride.
What about Sister Act is different from other musicals you have been in?
Sister Act is a musical full of joy and laughter, with just the right amount of spice. It has pushed so many new actors out of their comfort zones, and its fun, hilarious plot makes it especially entertaining to be part of. I can’t wait for the city of Newton to experience this lively, funny show and enjoy it as much as I do.
What will you miss the most once the final curtain closes on your NCHS musical career?
Musical theater has been a huge part of my life ever since I watched my first show as a young child. Stepping onto the stage for the first time in sixth grade opened my eyes to just how much work and dedication go into every production. Now, as I finish my final season, I’m beginning to realize how many memories I will carry with me—and how much I’ll miss them. But more than anything, I’ll miss the close-knit relationships that always form through musical. It creates a small family, especially my senior family, that I will cherish forever.