The Music Man
Hillbarn Theatre & Conservatory, June 2025
Director: Marlo Jae Lewis
Choreography: Mary Kalita
Costume designer: Nicolette Aarans
Lighting Designer: Anton Popowitz
The summer before my senior year, I volunteered at a children's theater summer camp, doing the lighting design and programming for their production of The Music Man Jr.
Working With Kids
This show had two separate casts: a K thru 2nd grade and a 3rd thru 5th grade. Because the kids had different capabilities, the groups had different blocking and choreography, and the younger kids had some sections of the show cut out. For example, because of liability, the younger kids were not allowed to go on the second story of the set. Additionally, the kids were inconsistent with their blocking. I used large washes to make sure I lit the performers, no matter where they were standing. For solos, I used pools of downlight to guide the children to their spot.
Opening look for the show. I shone lights through the scenery to create texture on the stage.
Ya Got Trouble (Younger Cast). Harold Hill is in a spotlight as the townspeople behind him are lit by sidelight.
Goodnight My Someone (Older Cast). Marian is isolated from the world around her.
Wells Fargo Wagon (Older Cast). The stage is lit with an even wash from multiple angles
Wells Fargo Wagon (Older Cast). Winthrop is highlighted center stage as the townspeople (lit by side light) look on.