Martinsville Bulletin, Inc.
P. O. Box 3711
204 Broad Street
Martinsville, Virginia 24115
276-638-8801
Toll Free: 800-234-6575
Letter: Cynthia Jeffress
Praise for MVHS musical
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
“Phantom of the Opera,” “The Lion King,” “Mama Mia” and “The Color Purple” are all popular Broadway stage plays. In 2007, I had the opportunity to attend “The Color Purple” Broadway stage play in New York City which featured Fantasia and Chaz Shepherd. Being in such a large venue and having a close up experience with such talent was breathtaking for me and an experience that was added to my favorite all time experiences. On March 27, I had a local experience that also was breathtaking and has been added to my all time favorite experiences. I had the honor of attending the opening night performance of “Once Upon a Mattress,” a play presented by the Magna Vista High School Drama Department.
As I entered the Magna Vista High School auditorium I was greeted with a program by the most professional and hospitable high school hostesses. Once I reached my seat I began to read my program to realize the cast included students from grades 9th-12th. However, from the first curtain opening until the last curtain closing the superb performances from the cast members, crew members, and orchestra members caused me to have a Broadway flashback. I had to realize I wasn't in New York City but I was in Ridgeway witnessing the most talented, dedicated, courageous, and disciplined young people I have ever seen.
As I watched these high school students I saw some energetic, intelligent individuals who had great speaking voices, melodious singing voices, and lots of personal charm. At the end of this fantastic performance I left speechless and breathless because I was able to be a part of such a production. I personally would like to thank the Magna Vista High School drama teacher Bryan Dunn and the entire drama department for a job well done. It definitely makes me proud to have such talent in my community. I applaud the students, their parents, and all the faculty and staff at Magna Vista High School for all of your hard work. I’m looking forward to the next performance and I encourage our community especially the Warrior community to support our very own talent.
Look out New York City; Ridgeway has some Broadway talent, too.
Cynthia Jeffress
Martinsville
.jpg "104")
