Calista's mother takes the stage!
Vaughanster
Calista Flockhart's mother stars in East Tennessee premiere of
Disney's High School Musical
By: LaSaundra Brown, Reporter
Date created: 7/5/2007 6:37:53 PM
Last updated: 7/5/2007 7:36:30 PM
Putting on their best moves, 50 high school and college students are
thrilled about starring in Disney's High School Musical. It's the
biggest performance in Theatre Guild of Morristown's history.
"It's sort of like the new version of Grease," Director Randy Greene
says. "It's got a lot of Saved by the Bell type characters in it, kids
dealing with everyday problems."
For five hours a day, the students sing, dance, and role play.
Eighteen-year-old Sarah Jefferson plays the role of Gabriella.
"It's my biggest role," she says. "It's the first lead I've ever
gotten."
Greene encouraged Sarah to audition for the starring role. A four year
choir student at Morristown West, he thought she would be good for the
part. But, she's on of many talented students in the bunch. The
musical features students from Middle Tennessee State University, East
Tennessee State University, University of Tennessee, and Walter State.
"They're just so talented," Greene says. "It's amazing to watch them,
they're infectious."
Chris Rhoton, who stars as Ryan, came all the way from MTSU to
audition for the part.
"Ryan is just over the top," Chris says. "He's one of the most fun
characters I've ever played."
In a musical driven by students, it's the character of the caring yet
overbearing drama teacher Mrs. Darbus, who really stands out on stage.
Mrs. Darbus is played by Kay Flockhart, a retired teacher and the
mother of Hollywood actress Calista Flockhart. Kay has been with the
Theatre Guild of Morristown for four years.
"I'm usually in the box office or concessions, but this time I decided
to audition for a play."
While she's on stage, there has been much anticipation that Calista
will be watching from the audience.
"She might come if she gets a chance," Kay says. "She's working in
July though, so we'll have to see."
In the meantime, when the curtain rolls, the students will be singing
and dancing their hearts out.
The show kicks off next Friday, July 13 and continues for two more
weekends through July 29.
For tickets you can call 423-586-9260, or visit the website linked
with this story.