Few experiences are as magical as the theater. Through the efforts of countless people, something indescribable comes to life. It’s what keeps people going back to see show after show — the stories are different, but the emotions, spectacles, and amazement are the same. West Ottawa’s theater department has a legacy of dedication and excellence, consistently demonstrated with every musical and play.

   While West Ottawa students and their families have come to anticipate WO’s fall musical, things are a little different this year. Instead of a November musical, there will be a “Broadway Mixtape”, a theater revue that showcases some of Broadway’s most iconic musical numbers. WO Theater Director Joe Huber describes it as “an evening of song and dance and acting, but there’s not really a storyline. That’s the biggest difference between a musical and a revue.” Although the show is mostly comprised of song and music, it’s not a concert; students will be creating the full theater experience, not just standing in place and singing. All the lights, costumes, and dancing that audiences love will still be there.

   Unlike standard musicals and plays, the Mixtape was designed completely by West Ottawa Theater; there were no plans or script to follow. “It made me very nervous at first because it was such an unknown quantity,” Huber explained, “this is something we created on our own.” The students were given a large amount of autonomy when creating the show. They chose what musical numbers would be performed, as long as the selection was achievable and appropriate. Once Huber had finalized which numbers would be staged, students signed up for the various songs they wanted to be a part of.  Some songs are to be performed by all of the students, while others are solos, duets, or small groups. The Mixtape will be showing at WO’s PAC on Friday, November 14, at 3:30 PM, and Saturday, November 15, at 7:30 PM. Tickets will be sold for $5 each.

   Fortunately, the Broadway Mixtape is not replacing the musical — Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, a musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, will still be performed this February. It’s a modern retelling of the famous Biblical story, from when Joseph receives a coat from his father to when his whole family is reunited in Egypt. Full of humor, melody, and charm, Joseph is a massive undertaking for WO Theater that will leave audiences astounded. Performances will take place on February 12, 13, 14, and 15 this winter.

   Although the show schedule is unusual this year, WO Theater’s high level of precision and artistry is sure to be consistent as always. From the innovative Broadway Mixtape to the colorful storytelling of Joseph, now is the time to experience the phenomenon of live theater. Don’t miss this opportunity to see what the community and creativity of West Ottawa have the power to create!