
A Nostalgic Celebration: The Nostalgia Cabaret
The Wichita State Musical Theatre Company (WSMTC) recently hosted a heartwarming event dubbed the Nostalgia Cabaret, inviting both members and the wider community to indulge in beloved tunes from Broadway and popular childhood TV shows. The cabaret not only enabled attendees to share cherished musical moments but also functioned as a fundraiser for WSMTC's upcoming production of The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals, scheduled for performance from April 10 to 12.
A Platform for Aspiring Performers
This gathering was more than just a musical showcase; it was a testament to the vision of WSMTC, a student-led organization founded to create space for aspiring performers, regardless of their academic background. Zoe Phillips, the company's president and a senior in musical theatre, expressed the group's commitment to enhancing opportunities for students. She noted, “We wanted there to be more opportunities for students who majored in musical theater and even students who didn’t.” With performances from varied repertoire—from songs like It’s Over Isn’t it from Steven Universe to classics like Grow for Me from Little Shop of Horrors—the cabaret echoed the diverse interests and backgrounds of the participants.
Embracing Inclusivity and Creativity
One of the highlights of the cabaret was the performance by Gracie Solas, the company's vice president, who captivated the audience with her rendition of Riptide by Vance Joy, alongside her duet with treasurer Alyssa Watson for Can’t Stop Singing from Teen Beach Movie. Their enthusiasm showcased the collaborative spirit of the organization, aiming to encourage involvement from all students, regardless of whether they are theatre majors. “Even in the musical right now, we have people who aren’t arts majors at all,” Phillips emphasized, highlighting the inclusive nature of the organization.
The Importance of Community in the Arts
The Nostalgia Cabaret not only served as a platform for showcasing talent but also reinforced community bonds among participants, encouraging students like Nicholas Dreier, a theatre freshman, to pursue their passion for performance. He shared, “In the near future, I hope to perform in some summer shows, and in the far future, I just hope one day I can get paid doing this.” This sense of ambition reflects the nurturing environment fostered by WSMTC in empowering students.
Joining the Musical Community
For those interested in pursuing opportunities in musical theatre, Zoe Phillips encourages prospective members to stay connected with WSMTC via their Instagram account @ws.mtc. The cabaret showcased the organization's mission: to ensure anyone willing to participate can find a place within its community. “They just need to contact the organization, and we will make sure they get connected with us,” she assured.
This vibrant, inclusive atmosphere not only promotes creativity but also nurtures the dreams of future performers in a safe and supportive environment.
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