photo by Jack Armstrong ’15

By Ashley Nnabue ‘16

Rock ‘n’ Roll is the annual musical production at Sherwood that is met with anticipation each year. However, some of the behind-the-scenes choices remain a mystery to the audience, especially the process for selecting songs.

Annually, there is an overall theme that embodies the nature of the songs performed. This year’s theme is “Dancing in the Street,” which a student participating in the show suggested.

Deciding on the theme each year is not a simple task. With the wide array of options within the music world, there are endless suggestions to consider. Choosing a theme boils down to factors of the show such as the set, dancers and singers.

“It’s a collaboration between the musical directors and the artistic directors, but we try to relate the art direction in terms of the stage, the stage painting and construction. We try to link that to the song choices as well,” said Rock ‘n’ Roll director Mike Maddox.

The theme is typically decided after picking soloists, although that is not always the case. The judges take their soloists’ diversity of voices into consideration when choosing a theme for the year. Soloists are selected after adding up six judges’ audition scores based on vocal performance, movement, stage presence and overall preparedness. Then, songs are carefully picked to fit each unique voice and style. Rock ‘n’ Roll director Bill Evans has a particular vision for each year’s show, which includes the song selection, the order of songs, staging, dancing and everything in between.

Contrary to popular belief, the placement of background singers is not random, but instead strategically organized. Many hours are spent coordinating the changing time performers have between their songs, the contribution of their voice to the overall sound and more. To maintain balance, experienced singers such as soloists and/or members of Chamber singers are always among the background singers. “There is a lot to think about and we have a massive Excel file we use to try to plan all of that,” Maddox said. The planning usually takes long hours over winter break to create the ideal performance before rehearsals officially begin.

Although there has not been a conscious decision to move away from the staple Rock ‘n’ Roll sound, there has been an increase in diversity of the music chosen. The show now incorporates both modern and classic songs. All song decisions are made final by Evans.

The Rock ‘n’ Roll audience consists of a wide range of people, differing in age, gender, ethnicity and school affiliation. The performance is done in such a way that will attract a larger audience in every year. The objective is to put together a show for the crowd to enjoy, and to connect people with timeless music. A lot of hard work, time and dedication is put in to compel the audience to return each year and enjoy another round of beautifully interpreted songs.

“I love working on the production. I think this year will be another fantastic one, and I hope people come out and see it,” said Maddox.