Last year, the ability to host a school musical was very difficult with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, the Masque program still persisted and was able to deliver a stunning performance this fall.

On November 13,  the Central Catholic and Oakland Catholic Masque program performed “Bringing Back Broadway.” The show was meant to celebrate musical theater, an art form that has suffered greatly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Performer Xavier Ramirez 23’ notes that “A larger crowd really changes the feeling that Masque brings; when that audience is there, you can feel the energy of the show, the excitement is really there.” 

Students in the Masque program worked diligently to perfect the show, spending hours practicing their choreography and singing. The performers displayed their talent with strong singing, intricate dancing, and dramatic shows of emotion. 

The show consisted of a multitude of songs from famous Broadway musicals, like “Oklahoma,” “Ragtime,” and “Kinky Boots.” Students performed the songs either as a solo, duet or by a group of performers.

The performance featured a live pit orchestra, directed by Dr. Mackey, professional lighting, and live sound organized by Mr. Wilson.

After the show, the performers were ecstatic. The relief of finishing the show and running through it perfectly was a great accomplishment for the cast.

Ramirez described how “After the curtain closed for the final time, the release of tension in the whole cast was a physical explosion of happiness. That’s why we do Masque, for that communal sense of merry dedication throughout the show, and the jubilation at the closing curtain.”

Currently, the Masque program is looking forward to the spring musical, where they will be performing “Me and My Girl.”