NCHS Senior Garridan Goss, son of Larry and Jamie Goss, will take the stage in the musical performance of “Newsies” as “Davey” on April 10 through the 13th, with show times of 7 pm for Thursday through Saturday and 2 pm on Sunday. Tickets will be available from cast members beginning February 17 and now in the offices of the local schools.
What musicals have you been in at NCHS and what characters/roles did you play?
I have been in musicals since 5th grade and have participated in Cinderella (Ensemble), Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat ( Gad/Ensemble), White Christmas (Mike/Train Conductor), Beauty and the Beast (Lefou), Mamma Mia (Pepper), and Oklahoma (Curly).
What was your favorite musical and why?
My favorite musical is Oklahoma because it was my first main role, and it was an enjoyable musical to be in, from the dancing to even the lines.
What scene in Newsies is your favorite and why? (This does not have to be a scene you are in)
My favorite scene is the song and dance number, “King of New York” because the tap is complicated yet fun and it’s a good song to sing.
What are three things being in the musical have taught you? and how have you learned these?
Musical has taught me how to be more responsible with time management and focus, the importance of having a family outside of my own to turn to through cast conversations and the bonding that happened, and the ways to be less nervous in front of big crowds and people I know.
What are two pieces of advice you would give young people who want to start performing in musicals at NCHS?
My advice would be to do it before it’s too late and to be confident in your ability to perform and audition for the role you want, whether it be a lead or ensemble.
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?
All of the adults who participate in the costumes, sets, and the directing of the productions showed me how to be resilient and brave enough to speak up when needed. They show these qualities through the hard work and dedication they have put towards the musicals, no matter what goes wrong or how the cast acts.
What about Newsies is different from other musicals you have been in?
The dancing in Newsies is more sophisticated and “professional” than past musicals using real dancing techniques and more difficult moves than we have before.
What will you miss the most once the final curtain closes on your NCHS musical career?
I will miss the closeness I have gained with people in the cast, the time spent having something to look forward to, and keeping my mind busy with the lines and songs I have to learn.