Samantha Hirschman | Assistant News Co-Editor

The end of the year always seems to be busy. Between final class projects, presentations, and tests, it’s hard to find time for the other activities, like club events. One of those big end-of-the-year events is the spring musical, Into the Woods.

Many of those involved with the show, including myself, have found that they have to give and take. No matter what we have to give up to be part of it, though, it doesn’t matter, it’s all worth it.

Some students give up sleep in exchange for rehearsal time.

“I stay up until 2:00 to do my homework because that’s the only time I have,” says freshman Katie Baldwin.

Sophomore Katie Phillips doesn’t get her normal amount of sleep.

“I’m constantly thinking about what I need to do. It’s a lot of little things. I don’t sleep very often now,” says Phillips.

While some students give up sleep, others give up time studying. When asked how he balances his time between the show and school, Matt Schulz answered: “Easy answer: don’t do homework.” Schulz, cast member and student costume designer, explains that “life is way too short. Do what makes you happy.”

“It’s really hard to find time to do homework. If I got asked to do it again, I would still say yes,” says sophomore Jessica Leeper, who was cast last minute into the show due to another cast member becoming ill.

Sophomore Makenzie Mauntler has a similar feeling. “It’s definitely hard, but it’s worth it,” says Mauntler.

Each cast member has an important role in the show, no matter how big or small. The time and effort that has been put into the show is lengthy, however, we all share the passion and love behind what we are doing.

“Theatre allows you to think and articulate more deeply about whatever subject matter or life experience you may encounter.” As a theatre major with a minor in digital media, many concepts overlap. Digital media is all about storytelling, and that’s exactly what theatre is,” says sophomore Claire Boston.

As the Company Manager of the show, I know myself the reality of giving up one thing for another. In the end, that is what we, as students, are all here for. However, after hearing how much the cast and crew enjoy and love what they are doing with the show, it makes it all worth it.

Photos by Krystal Schulte