Collage

During Elon’s parents weekend, I had the opportunity to perform and attend each of the four “Collage” performances, an annual event for Elon University’s Music Theatre Department.  A sort of revue performance, the show consists of a diverse spectacle of numbers directed, choreographed, and even arranged by Elon students. 

From opening to closing, the show ranged from high energy dance numbers to more serious, meaningful ballads.  Because of the venue, Yeager Recital Hall, the show had an intimate feel due to the resonance of the hall and the interspersed performers within the audience.  Each class of Music Theatre majors had a piece of their own, which showcased the growth of the performers throughout their four years at Elon.  Although all class numbers were well done and impressive, the maturity of the latter years was apparent throughout the complexity and depth of the numbers. 

My only complaint would be the overwhelming nature of the “inside jokes” within numbers.  With the department of performers sitting in direct sight of the audience, distractions were presented when students in the audience would laugh or applaud at times that were perplexing for those who had not seen the show before.  As a performer, when fellow classmates improved or changed something from show to show, or when friends did exceptionally well, it was tempting to express my entertainment.  Seeing and speaking to audience members, I realized that this is distracting and pulls their attention from the show.  It is important to allow audiences to see a show for what it is, without help or distraction from other performers.  

As mentioned before, the range of numbers was diverse.  From character acting in “Take Back Your Mink”, to scatting in “Brotherhood of Man”, and to the relaxed Judy Garland/Barbra Streisand standard “Get Happy/Happy Days”, each number in collage showcased its performers in what seemed to be their most comfortable style.  Aside from the men’s number, which seemed slightly under-prepared comparitively, all pieces were strong in delivery and left audiences laughing, applauding, and even crying. 

It was apparent through the numbers, the senior speeches, and the finale, that there is a familial sense throughout the department.  The show radiated support and understanding throughout the classes from performer to performer.  It was an inspiring sight to see and refreshing to pick up on the deeper values that the show made apparent: love, support, and unity.  These are values that are more or less, few and far between in our daily lives.  It was an excellent reminder of how peers should treat peers, and how influential a supportive environment can be for a high-level of growth and development.