From March 27 to March 29, the Briar Woods Theatre Department is showcasing “Hello, Dolly,” a musical sharing the story of a widowed matchmaker on the search for love. Although the musical runs for three days, months of student and staff effort take place behind the scenes to create the final product.

Official production for the musical began  in early January as auditions were organized, the cast was selected, and the tech crew and pit orchestra were put to work. 

Sofya Ignatova, a Briar Woods sophomore playing Rudolph in the musical’s ensemble, gave an insight at her experience, saying “Working on the musical has been challenging, but it’s a fun experience. It’s super exciting working with so many people on this show.”

Responsible for bringing the show to life, the tech crew works diligently, whether it be through props or the lighting cast onto the stage. Bugg Sutherland, a sophomore and member of the tech crew, expressed its importance, saying “I think the stage can really make a show special, and kind of help connect together the show.”

Paired with the cast and tech crew, the pit orchestra adds another layer of depth to the ambiance of the musical. Amaya Cabiness, a sophomore working behind the scenes in the pit orchestra, described her experience working towards the upcoming performance as “A lot, but honestly I enjoy it,” “The live music definitely adds to what makes the musical so great.”

With opening night drawing in closer, Briar Woods’ spring musical “Hello Dolly,” guarantees to be a show worth seeing, with months of work put in by students. To purchase tickets, go on the Briar Woods Theatre Instagram page or in person the night of, and enjoy the show!