Emma Kidwell, daughter of Steven and Rachel Kidwell., will perform the role of Martha Watson in the NCHS Musical production of White Christmas on December 16-19th
What musicals have you been in at NCHS and what characters/roles did you play?
I have been involved in Cinderella, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor DreamCoat (Sophomore and Junior year), and this year’s production of White Christmas. In Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor DreamCoat, I played Potiphar’s wife and I’m currently playing the role of Martha Watson in this year’s White Christmas.
What was your favorite musical and why?
My favorite musical that I have been involved in so far has been Cinderella. I believe it has been my favorite musical because it was my first time being a part of the NCHS musical theater program. I got to see the effort that went into each and every show and I was part of a super supportive and loving family. Cinderella was also a super exciting show, and who doesn’t love a good Disney classic?
What scene in White Christmas is your favorite and why? (This does not have to be a scene you are in)
My favorite scene in White Christmas is the Falling Out of Love Scene. In the scene you get to watch my character, Martha Watson, teach Betty and Judy that you don’t need a man to be happy in life. It’s a scene about moving on in life and doing what is best for you. The three women come together and make a pact about how falling out of love can most definitely be fun! Plus the dance number is super upbeat and the perfect amount of dramatic.
What are three things being in the musical have taught you? and how have you learned these?
Throughout my musical career, I have learned to always be prepared, how to belt at the top of my lungs, and that our musical family is the best. During musical, you always have to be prepared to lend someone a hand, or to fix a line on the fly. I learned how to belt when Mr. Finley and I discovered my super odd vocal range and that I could only sing high when I gave it my all. Lastly, I learned that all the directors, cast, and helpers are one big family. We laugh lots, sometimes cry, and I spend almost as much time with them as I do with my actual family during the week!
What are two pieces of advice you would give young people who want to start performing in musicals at NCHS?
My two main pieces of advice would have to be: “Don’t be afraid to go for the part you want!” and “No part is a small part in musicals here at NCHS!” I would tell them these two things because it is important for you to shoot for the stars, regardless of the part you want. I also want to let them know that even if you don’t get the part you wanted, no part is too small. It takes a village to have a successful musical. That includes ensemble, leads, set construction, costumers, and more!
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?
Some of the qualities that I see in the adults that help put on the shows are passion, determination, dedication, and lots of creativity. These are things that we see in the set designs and costumes, as well as the way we block our shows. The directors have a passion for each and every musical they put on and they are dedicated to the program and the students in it. I think I can use all of these qualities throughout my life and they are important for making connections.
What will you miss the most once the final curtain closes on your NCHS musical career?
The thing I will miss most once the final curtain closes on my NCHS musical career will definitely be the moments behind stage with the cast. We would goof around and make jokes with one another. Lots of inside jokes were made and many laughs were shared. I think that the memories made backstage, even if we were supposed to be quiet, are the ones I will remember forever and miss the most.
Tickets for the NCHS Production of White Christmas are on sale with cast members and in the NCHS office (618-783-2303). Shows are December 16-18th at 7pm and December 19th at 2 pm.
