August 3, 2023 • 24 mins
When you think about Beauty and the Beast, it's hard to ignore the impact its musical scores have on the audience. In this week's episode, the Oregon Straw Hat Players give us an inside look at the work and roles involved in their upcoming production of this classic musical. Be our guest!
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
SPEAKER1:
Oregon is known for having amazing musical offerings and has received national
recognition as a Best Community for Music Education for five years (00:00):
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in a row. One component of this is the musical opportunities available in ourcommunity, including the Oregon Straw Hat Players.
Today we're going to learn about their upcoming production of Beauty and theBeast from the director, stage manager, and a cast member who all just happened
(00:29):
to be OSD alumni.
[Beauty and the Beast]
SPEAKER2: Welcome to this episode of Inside the OSD podcast. (00:40):
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SPEAKER3: They talk a lot about it. (00:44):
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They're asking frequently to get outside to see the goats.
SPEAKER1: It's a build it, they will come situation. (00:48):
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SPEAKER2: Where it's all about the kids. (00:51):
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Well, it's always fun to have a little groundhog lay into the forecast.
Here is your host.
Lifelong educator and our superintendent, Dr.
Leslie Bergstrom.
SPEAKER1: Thank you for joining us today. (01:04):
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We know that you've been very busy with rehearsals and preparation for openingnight, which is this Saturday, August 5th, and we're excited to hear about it.
Could you please start by telling us a little bit about yourself and your rolein Straw Hat Players and with this production?
SPEAKER4: Sure. I'm Duane Draper and I'm actually an Oregon High School graduate way back in 1983. (01:21):
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Nice. A long time ago, I went to Oregon schools and I'm a teacher in theBarneveld School District.
I've been there for 35 years.
Oh, I
SPEAKER1: didn't know that. (01:35):
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Wonderful. The best profession ever.
SPEAKER4: Yeah. I'm a high school social studies teacher and a drama director and a forensics coach there. (01:38):
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Wow. But with straw hat, I do lots of different things.
I've been on the board. I've been a director.
I've been a designer.
I've been a music director.
I've been a producer and a piano player.
And that's what I'm doing this summer.
I'm producing and piano playing this summer, so I'm really excited for ourproduction and people are doing a great job and we're really excited about it.
SPEAKER1: So how did you decide to select Beauty and the Beast for this summer's musical? (02:01):
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SPEAKER4: Well, we wanted something that was family friendly and that would encourage lots of people to get involved. (02:05):
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We were thrilled with the audition turnout.
We've never seen so many people.
Really?
SPEAKER1: Oh, that's so exciting. (02:15):
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SPEAKER4: And lots of people from the community, lots of past graduates, lots of students in school now at Oregon, as well as people from around the county. (02:17):
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So we're very excited about it.
We also like the message of the story, which we think is -- it's a storyeverybody knows, but we think we can bring a new light to it.
SPEAKER1: Very familiar. And I'm not at all surprised you had a ton of people. (02:33):
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I mean, don't you think most of us can sing by by memory, at least one song?
SPEAKER4: And and every girl wants to be Belle. (02:42):
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And, you know, and we all know, you know, we love Mrs.
Potts and all those great characters that we've all met with the Disney.
SPEAKER1: version. Absolutely. (02:52):
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Be our guest.
That's my favorite one.
Or maybe the one about Gaston.
I love that one, too.
We have Gaston
SPEAKER4: here and we've got -- Perfect! (03:01):
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-- And we also -- and we love Beauty and The Beast's melody, right?
That we all know. "Tale as Old as Time." And of course, "Be our Guest" is agreat number.
SPEAKER1: Yeah, I can't wait for that one. (03:12):
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So we know that producing a musical is an incredible undertaking.
What is involved in putting on a production like this?
SPEAKER4: Well, we started planning for our production way back in September. (03:21):
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That's when we selected it and we started putting our staff together.
We've got a staff probably of about 25 people.
SPEAKER1: All volunteers. (03:32):
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SPEAKER4: All (03:33):
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SPEAKER1: volunteers. Amazing. (03:33):
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SPEAKER4: And mostly from the Oregon area, although we also get people from surrounding communities who like to come to Oregon in the summer or had some connection (03:34):
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here, maybe in the past.
And so we worked with them and then we started our audition process in lateMay.
And by that point we had the show relatively sort of designed and concept, andthen we've been working really hard since then with rehearsals and putting the
(03:58):
sets together and getting the lights done and the props and the costumes.
And we've got people working right now
SPEAKER1: finishing up last minute things. (04:03):
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Yep. Oh, that's terrific.
I see that many of them involved in the production, including you are an OSDalumni.
What is special about that for this and for all the other musicals too?
SPEAKER4: Well, historically, this group was connected with the school district from its very founding. (04:17):
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It was one of the founding members of the group was the choir director atOregon High School, Kay Shaw, who was my choir teacher.
Oh, I didn't know that!
SPEAKER1: Yes. (04:31):
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SPEAKER4: And and so we've always had a great relationship with the school district. (04:32):
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Many different people who have either worked here or we've had connections withpeople through the district office.
as we do now. We've got one of our orchestra players in the pit and and we'rereally excited with, like, finding ways to connect with the community.
We feel like we're a lifelong learning opportunity and also something, youknow, putting a musical together is a big undertaking.
SPEAKER1: It takes a lot of people. (04:59):
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SPEAKER4: It takes a lot of people a lot of money and a lot of time. (05:00):
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And so we can offer students and past graduates opportunities to continue doingit where otherwise the opportunities for that are hard because it takes so many
people.
SPEAKER1: You're right. When you are a musical person, but you aren't necessarily going to make your day to day living off of it, but you don't want to give it up either. (05:12):
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SPEAKER4: It's everybody's heart and soul. (05:21):
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Yeah. Whatever part they do, right?
Whether it's putting together the program, which some people love to do in theback or being our lead actor on stage.
SPEAKER1: I'm guessing that many of our listeners are familiar with the story of Beauty and the Beast. (05:32):
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I know I am, like I said, one of my favorites.
And I also know that there is a variation in each production.
Without giving anything away, what is special or unique about this show?
SPEAKER4: Well, I think for me, one of the things that's special or unique, especially for our listeners in the podcast, is it's people you know who are in the production, (05:49):
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right? You can recognize people, whether they're people.
Maybe you've been to Straw Hat Productions before and you've seen these peopleor there's people you know in the community.
So I think that's for Oregon people, one of the things that makes it reallyspecial, yeah, the show itself, I think some of the neat things we're doing,
(06:10):
we're doing some really interesting lighting things with shadowing.
And so you'll see some really interesting ways to tell the story.
SPEAKER1: The Beast and the Castle. (06:16):
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SPEAKER4: Yeah, yeah. To do that. (06:17):
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And also, I think we have some really interesting connections with the story.
We're talking about home a lot in our theme and how everybody tries to findtheir home.
And obviously there's a lot of characters in this musical who do that, and wewant to make everybody feel a part of Straw Hat.
And so we're really looking forward to people coming to see us.
SPEAKER1: How can people learn more about Straw Hat Players and what type of opportunities are there for their students, for the students, alumni and community members if (06:37):
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they want to be a part of future productions?
SPEAKER4: One of the best ways to learn more about us is to check out our website www .OSHPOnline.org and you can find out (06:48):
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a wealth of things about our group.
And on that website you can then find specific contacts, so if you want to beinvolved in a production, you can email that person or you can call our phone
number and we'll connect you with a person to do that.
(07:11):
We also have open auditions for every show and we post those on the website,the local news organizations on our Facebook page.
You can find us lots of different places.
So we take crew calls at the same place.
You can just stop on by and sign up and we can also connect you at the showitself.
So if you want to get involved, talk to one of our house people and they'll beable to help you out and get you contacted with us and we'll get you on our
(07:37):
mailing list.
SPEAKER1: Oh, that's really cool. (07:38):
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Finally, can you share the details of the performances and how people can gettickets?
SPEAKER4: Sure. So we have six performances of the show. (07:43):
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Our opening night is on Saturday night and we perform at 7:30 at the OregonHigh School Performing Arts Center.
Of course, we're thrilled that the school district works with us to let us usethat beautiful facility.
And then we have additional shows on Saturday night -- I'm sorry, Sunday on the6th, and that show is at 2:00.
(08:07):
And then we continue on Thursday the 10th and Friday the 11th and Saturday the12th, all at 7:30, and also an additional show on Saturday at 2:00.
Again, you can find all that on our website or the PAC website for the schooldistrict where you can get some tickets.
We have a really great relationship with Mr.
Mendl at the PAC and he works with us.
(08:28):
He's actually helping us out with the sound as well for this.
He's a great guy. And so any of those ways and you can get your tickets onlineor if you prefer, you can just come to the door and we'll be glad to sell you a
ticket there.
SPEAKER1: Now, I'm hoping you don't end up -- well. (08:40):
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maybe it'd be lucky for you if you ended up sold out every single performance.
But so people maybe could go and chances are they could get a ticket.
SPEAKER4: Because we have six performances, it's usually likely that you can get a ticket at the door. (08:49):
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Obviously, if you buy ahead, you probably get a little better seat.
But we're glad to help you at the door and we'd love to encourage you to comewhen it works for you.
SPEAKER1: Thank you. So now I'd like to spend a little time talking with some of the OSD alumni, other alumni who are involved in the production. (09:01):
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Okay. So thank you to the two of you for joining us today, and congratulationson being a part of the production.
In addition to being connected to the show, you are all OSD alumni.
(09:22):
So let's start by giving you a chance to introduce yourself, when you graduated,and what you've been doing since graduation.
SPEAKER5: I guess I'll start. So I'm Kyle Kapusta. (09:30):
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I graduated in the year of 2020, and since then I've been going to MillikinUniversity to get my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theater.
So I've really -- I was the one that got bitten with the bug.
SPEAKER1: You sure -- You sure have been bitten. (09:43):
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And we are lucky you've been bitten.
Because I remember watching you on the stage when you were in high school.
And now that's your major in college, and you're coming back to do it here?
Yeah. That's awesome.
SPEAKER5: Goes full circle. (09:56):
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SPEAKER1: It sure does. And how about you? (09:57):
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My name is Jordan Hake.
I was an OSD grad of 2019.
SPEAKER6: My college journey has been a little bit bumpier, but I have finally found my place. (10:03):
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I'm currently at Madison College working on -- Oh, I just signed up for it.
I don't remember what it's called anymore, but it's in the realm of videographyand.
SPEAKER1: Oh yes, because you work for OCA Media. (10:19):
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Yes, I do. We see you working for them all the time.
SPEAKER6: I'm around the town. (10:23):
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SPEAKER1: That's terrific. (10:24):
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So now on to the musical.
What's your role in the musical, each of you, and how is rehearsal been going?
SPEAKER5: So I'm playing the part of Gaston, the -- the villain of the story. (10:31):
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It's -- it's been such a fun time.
It's a role that I never would have expected to get, but I've had a blast withit.
I know being -- like specifically the numbers that he is in, it's just such afun time because you're around, you're around so many people and it's it's it's
(10:52):
all people that I've grown up with that I've been familiar with.
And funny enough, this is the first time ever that I've gotten to share thestage with my mother.
SPEAKER1: Really? Oh, that's great. (11:01):
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SPEAKER5: And it's been such a fun time. (11:02):
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Just having a blast with everyone on there, especially with numbers like Gastonand the Mob song towards the end.
And it's just one of those parts that I personally -- it's one of those thingswhere you as an actor, you always have to try and find a connection to the
character. He's an interesting one to do it with, but it's one of those thingswhere once you find it, you just get to lose yourself in it and have such a fun
(11:27):
time.
SPEAKER1: Well, his songs are so fun. (11:28):
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They're so fun. So I can see that.
How about you, Jordan?
SPEAKER6: Well, I'm the stage manager, so my role is a little bit different in this production. (11:33):
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I balance the what's happening on stage with the what's happening backstage andmaking sure communication flows all the way through.
I think this rehearsal process has been not when I initially expected, but it'sbeen a fun process.
And getting to know all 59 of our cast members has been an exciting adventure.
(11:56):
And when I learned three weeks in, I already knew everybody's names.
I was so proud of myself.
Knowing everybody and just getting to know them.
And we have so many different fun personalities on stage.
And all of them, all 59 of them have a unique skill set and fun facts aboutthemselves they share.
And it's just it's an awesome experience.
SPEAKER1: Well, that's what's going to make the production great, right? (12:17):
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All of these different people coming together for something.
SPEAKER6: So many. So (12:22):
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SPEAKER1: fun. Did you do stage management when you were in high school? (12:23):
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SPEAKER6: I did not do stage management. (12:26):
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My -- I started in the pit.
Then I went on stage and then I did some backstage.
And so you did theater.
SPEAKER1: You just didn't do that portion of it? (12:37):
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Yes. Okay. I gotcha.
So summers can be busy and committing to a show like this takes a lot of time.
Why was it important to you to be a part of this?
SPEAKER5: So for me, it was it was kind of a few reasons. (12:47):
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Straw Hat's been in my blood for a long time.
SPEAKER1: What's the first show (12:52):
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SPEAKER5: you ever did? First show I did with Straw Hat specifically was Music Man back in 2010, I think. (12:52):
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SPEAKER1: Oh, so you must have played the role of the little boy? (12:58):
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SPEAKER5: Oh, no. I was just one of the little, like, little marching band kids. (13:00):
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SPEAKER1: Oh, gotcha. (13:03):
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SPEAKER5: But that's where it's sort of this story for me has come full circle because a long time ago, when I was at the ripe young age of four, my first show was (13:04):
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Beauty and the Beast, where I played a little dancing napkin.
And and my dad was Lumiere.
And funny enough, Eric.
Funny enough, Eric Shirpe, who is our current Cogsworth in this production, wasalso Cogsworth in that same production 18 years ago.
(13:27):
So it feels like a really big full circle moment for me.
And it's it's something that I as soon as Straw Hat announced they were doingit, I was like, I must I -- it's like I've got to I've got to make it full
circle. And it's been one of those things where Straw Hat has been in my blood.
My, my, my mom has done it for a long time.
(13:48):
My dad was there pretty much since the beginning.
Both of my brothers have been a part of it.
My sister in law is the current president of the board.
Oh, wow. And so it's just it's a long running thing with our family.
And we love the Oregon community so much that we are always looking for ways tobring entertainment to sort of to go.
SPEAKER1: From the dancing napkin to Gaston. (14:07):
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That's a big leap in 18 years.
SPEAKER5: Consider it a glow up. (14:11):
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SPEAKER1: I think. Yeah, I think that's pretty cool. (14:12):
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How about you, Jordan?
SPEAKER6: Well, I mean, speaking of fun facts about our cast members, I learned another one there. (14:15):
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There you go. I, I think -- it's just been it's just been an insane experience.
SPEAKER1: You can spend your time a lot of ways, right? (14:29):
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SPEAKER6: My my time is spent a lot of different directions. (14:31):
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But I think the reason why I come back here is also long time connections.
Back at the very beginning of Straw Hat, my mom was a part of the very firstproduction, so -- Oh, I didn't know
SPEAKER1: that about your mom and I know your mom from working in the school district. (14:46):
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SPEAKER6: So long time coming. (14:49):
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And when I found theater in high school, um, a part of me was like, "Oh, I'mgetting to spend a lot of time with people." And I was really, really
shy in school. And so I was like, I can show a little part of me and I don'thave to be me because I can be this character and that's not me.
Right? Oh, wow. And so I learned that aspect of being able to have a characterwhich has helped me through life and difficult situations
(15:16):
and this doing these in the summer is it's just a fun time.
Like it's part of fun.
So we're work in the summer's a little bit slower, so I have some free time todo my fun things.
So I do my fun things, which is productions like Beauty and the Beast.
SPEAKER1: That's so insightful though, that you knew at that point in your development that being involved with theater was going to help you. (15:34):
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SPEAKER6: Yeah. (15:40):
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SPEAKER1: So what's special part about this production or your part? (15:41):
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SPEAKER5: Either one? I'm thinking of the production specifically. (15:45):
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I think it's we take that classic phrase, a tale as old as time and likereally, really like to adapt it.
Very early on, our dramaturg uh -- not Duane Draper.
My bad. I get both your names mixed up a lot of times.
We've been
SPEAKER4: around together a long time. (16:04):
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SPEAKER5: Exactly. Our dramaturg David Lauver has really stressed to us in the very early rehearsals the literary history that has come with Beauty and the Beast, how (16:05):
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it's a long running story that has been told long before the Disney version.
And it's something that we've we really want to appreciate that those roots andthe long oral and written tradition that has come with the story of Beauty and
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the Beast. With Gaston, it's been very interesting because he was invented byDisney as sort of the main foil to their idea.
And I think his his role in the entire thing, other than being the very funcomedic relief, the guy that has the very fun songs.
It's very interesting because with Belle and The Beast, you see a lot of likebeauty is found within.
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That's a big, big notion in the story is that while the beast out -- hisoutward appearance may be something horrifying and scary, inside, he's a really,
like, nice and gentle person.
While Gaston has that big that big like loud and like very much the idol of thetown kind of energy.
But deep down there's something sinister lurking within him.
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And I think that's something that, you know, we never really think about in ourday to day lives is that people put on these outward appearances, but you never
really know what's going on inside.
SPEAKER1: That connects a little bit with what Jordan said about being able to play a character, right? (17:20):
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Because you didn't want to necessarily let everybody see what's down deepinside.
Yeah, it's just a lot of deep thinking around these stories.
So what's next for your post production and post summer?
What's next for you guys?
SPEAKER5: Well, I'm going to be heading back to to Millikin to finish up my senior year of college. (17:41):
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Scary. But after that, then I got to start finding out where I'm going to beheading in terms of like acting career, in terms of musicals.
My plan right now is possibly heading down to the coast, like sort of theFlorida coast to start working on cruise ships.
Oh, fun. So because I've been on it once, I was like, "Wow, that seemsincredibly fun to do," so that's that's my current post-graduation plans.
SPEAKER1: Well, that's great. (18:08):
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SPEAKER6: My post summer plans include a college, so I'm going for an associate's -- will be starting an associate's. (18:10):
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And by the time I complete my associate's, I will have an associate and threecertificates.
And I hope to use those to capture the moments in the community and momentslike Beauty and the Beast and all the other special little
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moments that happen that not always get noticed just within a within a smallcommunity like this and be able to spread the word and capture those.
SPEAKER1: That's beautiful. (18:41):
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So finally, whenever we have the opportunity to speak to alumni, I like to askthis question "What did you think was the most valuable thing you learned in the
OSD that helped you prepare for the path you've taken?" And do you have anyadvice for current students?
Oh, that can be --
SPEAKER4: Can I speak at this one? (19:00):
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Because mine goes way, way back, doesn't it?
Um, there were some really terrific educators in the Oregon School District.
There always have been.
And I never thought I would be a teacher.
Although if you know my family's background, it might not surprise you so much.
But they were really centered on developing every kid in whatever they weregood at and letting them find their pathway.
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And I would speak to finding yourself and really being true to who you are.
And and you might not know right away.
For me, it took a couple of years to figure it out.
But when I look back after the time and talked about some of these people thatI worked with, I'm very grateful for their work.
And I could list a dozen of them easily who really connected.
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So I think we have such great teachers.
I'm sure we still do here in the Oregon School District that they really careabout students and and letting everyone find success no matter what that might
be.
SPEAKER1: Thank you. (19:59):
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SPEAKER5: Very much. Going along with what Dwayne just brilliantly said. (20:02):
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Trust your educators.
They they know what's up.
Specifically for me, there was a long time music music teacher back in mymiddle school days, Miss Patricia Hetland, who long time
family friend of ours and a long time Straw Hatters, wonderful person.
She really encouraged me to keep going along the path of that I've takencurrently.
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I specifically remember getting ready for an audition for I believe it wasAlice in Wonderland Junior with Straw Hat, where she helped me out because we're
a long time family friends.
And she goes, "Kyle, why are you not in choir?" And so really they they knowlike how best to help you along with what you're trying to go for.
And honestly, the biggest piece of advice, just be willing to try everything.
(20:50):
Like in no matter what your passion is, whether like in theater, because peoplethink like for theater very specifically, it's on stage, like that's what you're
doing. But there's so many other aspects as we can see that that that Jordan --like Jordan keeps us together pretty much.
Like we would be lost without Jordan.
We'd be lost without Dwayne.
Like, really think about, like, there's so many things even within your ownpassions that you can look into.
(21:12):
Like even for sports, like, say you've been playing one position or just onesport your entire time.
Feel free to, like, try something new and you'll never know what you're whatyou're going to find like really interesting and something that excites you and
just be willing to to give it a shot.
Don't -- It's weird saying like, "don't stay within your own shell," but likereally just be be willing to to reach out and people will help you along the
(21:35):
way.
SPEAKER6: Take that step. (21:35):
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Yeah, absolutely.
Like and I don't know that I could add any more to what's already been said,but no matter how shy or outspoken
you are or feel you have to be, be willing to either turn that off some days orheck,
(21:58):
if you're -- if you're in any of the musics and you're like, "Hey, I want totry," find out all the other options, because even within the high school
theater productions, you don't have to be on stage.
Absolutely not. You can be in the pit, you can help with sound, you can helpwith lights.
You could be the person who's running around doing the props.
There's so many roles within theater and within the rest of the school, there'sthere's so many other programs like the the FFA program they have here, all the
(22:27):
different shop classes.
It's just being willing to take take that study hall that you may want to signup for and say, "Oh, that class looks interesting." Try taking that class
because who know you may, you may, you may make a new friend, you may find anew passion.
Who knows? You won't know until you've taken a step out of your comfort zoneand tried.
(22:50):
And it sounds scary.
And as a shy kid in high school, trust me, I get it.
But it will benefit you in the long run.
And it's it's okay to take that step and be totally, completely shaking in thatvery first meeting or that very first class.
It's okay. And you will make it through.
SPEAKER1: Thank you so much for speaking with us today. (23:06):
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We can't wait to see this performance.
Thanks to our listeners for tuning in this week.
Beauty and the Beast performances are August 5th, 6yh, 10th, 11th and 12th atthe Oregon High School Performing Arts Center.
You can get your tickets online at OregonPerformingArtsCenter.com.
(23:30):
Remember that you can find links to all episodes of Inside the OSD and submittopic ideas on our website at OregonSD
.org/podcast. You can find this podcast anywhere you can find podcasts.
Make sure to subscribe if you're listening on one of these apps to getnotifications on the most recent episodes.
(23:51):
We'll see you next time on Inside the OSD, where it's all about the kids.
[Be Our Guest]
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in a row. One component of this is the musical opportunities available in ourcommunity, including the Oregon Straw Hat Players.
Today we're going to learn about their upcoming production of Beauty and theBeast from the director, stage manager, and a cast member who all just happened
(00:29):
to be OSD alumni.
[Beauty and the Beast]
SPEAKER2: Welcome to this episode of Inside the OSD podcast. (00:40):
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SPEAKER3: They talk a lot about it. (00:44):
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They're asking frequently to get outside to see the goats.
SPEAKER1: It's a build it, they will come situation. (00:48):
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SPEAKER2: Where it's all about the kids. (00:51):
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Well, it's always fun to have a little groundhog lay into the forecast.
Here is your host.
Lifelong educator and our superintendent, Dr.
Leslie Bergstrom.
SPEAKER1: Thank you for joining us today. (01:04):
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We know that you've been very busy with rehearsals and preparation for openingnight, which is this Saturday, August 5th, and we're excited to hear about it.
Could you please start by telling us a little bit about yourself and your rolein Straw Hat Players and with this production?
SPEAKER4: Sure. I'm Duane Draper and I'm actually an Oregon High School graduate way back in 1983. (01:21):
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Nice. A long time ago, I went to Oregon schools and I'm a teacher in theBarneveld School District.
I've been there for 35 years.
Oh, I
SPEAKER1: didn't know that. (01:35):
undefined
Wonderful. The best profession ever.
SPEAKER4: Yeah. I'm a high school social studies teacher and a drama director and a forensics coach there. (01:38):
undefined
Wow. But with straw hat, I do lots of different things.
I've been on the board. I've been a director.
I've been a designer.
I've been a music director.
I've been a producer and a piano player.
And that's what I'm doing this summer.
I'm producing and piano playing this summer, so I'm really excited for ourproduction and people are doing a great job and we're really excited about it.
SPEAKER1: So how did you decide to select Beauty and the Beast for this summer's musical? (02:01):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Well, we wanted something that was family friendly and that would encourage lots of people to get involved. (02:05):
undefined
We were thrilled with the audition turnout.
We've never seen so many people.
Really?
SPEAKER1: Oh, that's so exciting. (02:15):
undefined
SPEAKER4: And lots of people from the community, lots of past graduates, lots of students in school now at Oregon, as well as people from around the county. (02:17):
undefined
So we're very excited about it.
We also like the message of the story, which we think is -- it's a storyeverybody knows, but we think we can bring a new light to it.
SPEAKER1: Very familiar. And I'm not at all surprised you had a ton of people. (02:33):
undefined
I mean, don't you think most of us can sing by by memory, at least one song?
SPEAKER4: And and every girl wants to be Belle. (02:42):
undefined
And, you know, and we all know, you know, we love Mrs.
Potts and all those great characters that we've all met with the Disney.
SPEAKER1: version. Absolutely. (02:52):
undefined
Be our guest.
That's my favorite one.
Or maybe the one about Gaston.
I love that one, too.
We have Gaston
SPEAKER4: here and we've got -- Perfect! (03:01):
undefined
-- And we also -- and we love Beauty and The Beast's melody, right?
That we all know. "Tale as Old as Time." And of course, "Be our Guest" is agreat number.
SPEAKER1: Yeah, I can't wait for that one. (03:12):
undefined
So we know that producing a musical is an incredible undertaking.
What is involved in putting on a production like this?
SPEAKER4: Well, we started planning for our production way back in September. (03:21):
undefined
That's when we selected it and we started putting our staff together.
We've got a staff probably of about 25 people.
SPEAKER1: All volunteers. (03:32):
undefined
SPEAKER4: All (03:33):
undefined
SPEAKER1: volunteers. Amazing. (03:33):
undefined
SPEAKER4: And mostly from the Oregon area, although we also get people from surrounding communities who like to come to Oregon in the summer or had some connection (03:34):
undefined
here, maybe in the past.
And so we worked with them and then we started our audition process in lateMay.
And by that point we had the show relatively sort of designed and concept, andthen we've been working really hard since then with rehearsals and putting the
(03:58):
sets together and getting the lights done and the props and the costumes.
And we've got people working right now
SPEAKER1: finishing up last minute things. (04:03):
undefined
Yep. Oh, that's terrific.
I see that many of them involved in the production, including you are an OSDalumni.
What is special about that for this and for all the other musicals too?
SPEAKER4: Well, historically, this group was connected with the school district from its very founding. (04:17):
undefined
It was one of the founding members of the group was the choir director atOregon High School, Kay Shaw, who was my choir teacher.
Oh, I didn't know that!
SPEAKER1: Yes. (04:31):
undefined
SPEAKER4: And and so we've always had a great relationship with the school district. (04:32):
undefined
Many different people who have either worked here or we've had connections withpeople through the district office.
as we do now. We've got one of our orchestra players in the pit and and we'rereally excited with, like, finding ways to connect with the community.
We feel like we're a lifelong learning opportunity and also something, youknow, putting a musical together is a big undertaking.
SPEAKER1: It takes a lot of people. (04:59):
undefined
SPEAKER4: It takes a lot of people a lot of money and a lot of time. (05:00):
undefined
And so we can offer students and past graduates opportunities to continue doingit where otherwise the opportunities for that are hard because it takes so many
people.
SPEAKER1: You're right. When you are a musical person, but you aren't necessarily going to make your day to day living off of it, but you don't want to give it up either. (05:12):
undefined
SPEAKER4: It's everybody's heart and soul. (05:21):
undefined
Yeah. Whatever part they do, right?
Whether it's putting together the program, which some people love to do in theback or being our lead actor on stage.
SPEAKER1: I'm guessing that many of our listeners are familiar with the story of Beauty and the Beast. (05:32):
undefined
I know I am, like I said, one of my favorites.
And I also know that there is a variation in each production.
Without giving anything away, what is special or unique about this show?
SPEAKER4: Well, I think for me, one of the things that's special or unique, especially for our listeners in the podcast, is it's people you know who are in the production, (05:49):
undefined
right? You can recognize people, whether they're people.
Maybe you've been to Straw Hat Productions before and you've seen these peopleor there's people you know in the community.
So I think that's for Oregon people, one of the things that makes it reallyspecial, yeah, the show itself, I think some of the neat things we're doing,
(06:10):
we're doing some really interesting lighting things with shadowing.
And so you'll see some really interesting ways to tell the story.
SPEAKER1: The Beast and the Castle. (06:16):
undefined
SPEAKER4: Yeah, yeah. To do that. (06:17):
undefined
And also, I think we have some really interesting connections with the story.
We're talking about home a lot in our theme and how everybody tries to findtheir home.
And obviously there's a lot of characters in this musical who do that, and wewant to make everybody feel a part of Straw Hat.
And so we're really looking forward to people coming to see us.
SPEAKER1: How can people learn more about Straw Hat Players and what type of opportunities are there for their students, for the students, alumni and community members if (06:37):
undefined
they want to be a part of future productions?
SPEAKER4: One of the best ways to learn more about us is to check out our website www .OSHPOnline.org and you can find out (06:48):
undefined
a wealth of things about our group.
And on that website you can then find specific contacts, so if you want to beinvolved in a production, you can email that person or you can call our phone
number and we'll connect you with a person to do that.
(07:11):
We also have open auditions for every show and we post those on the website,the local news organizations on our Facebook page.
You can find us lots of different places.
So we take crew calls at the same place.
You can just stop on by and sign up and we can also connect you at the showitself.
So if you want to get involved, talk to one of our house people and they'll beable to help you out and get you contacted with us and we'll get you on our
(07:37):
mailing list.
SPEAKER1: Oh, that's really cool. (07:38):
undefined
Finally, can you share the details of the performances and how people can gettickets?
SPEAKER4: Sure. So we have six performances of the show. (07:43):
undefined
Our opening night is on Saturday night and we perform at 7:30 at the OregonHigh School Performing Arts Center.
Of course, we're thrilled that the school district works with us to let us usethat beautiful facility.
And then we have additional shows on Saturday night -- I'm sorry, Sunday on the6th, and that show is at 2:00.
(08:07):
And then we continue on Thursday the 10th and Friday the 11th and Saturday the12th, all at 7:30, and also an additional show on Saturday at 2:00.
Again, you can find all that on our website or the PAC website for the schooldistrict where you can get some tickets.
We have a really great relationship with Mr.
Mendl at the PAC and he works with us.
(08:28):
He's actually helping us out with the sound as well for this.
He's a great guy. And so any of those ways and you can get your tickets onlineor if you prefer, you can just come to the door and we'll be glad to sell you a
ticket there.
SPEAKER1: Now, I'm hoping you don't end up -- well. (08:40):
undefined
maybe it'd be lucky for you if you ended up sold out every single performance.
But so people maybe could go and chances are they could get a ticket.
SPEAKER4: Because we have six performances, it's usually likely that you can get a ticket at the door. (08:49):
undefined
Obviously, if you buy ahead, you probably get a little better seat.
But we're glad to help you at the door and we'd love to encourage you to comewhen it works for you.
SPEAKER1: Thank you. So now I'd like to spend a little time talking with some of the OSD alumni, other alumni who are involved in the production. (09:01):
undefined
Okay. So thank you to the two of you for joining us today, and congratulationson being a part of the production.
In addition to being connected to the show, you are all OSD alumni.
(09:22):
So let's start by giving you a chance to introduce yourself, when you graduated,and what you've been doing since graduation.
SPEAKER5: I guess I'll start. So I'm Kyle Kapusta. (09:30):
undefined
I graduated in the year of 2020, and since then I've been going to MillikinUniversity to get my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in musical theater.
So I've really -- I was the one that got bitten with the bug.
SPEAKER1: You sure -- You sure have been bitten. (09:43):
undefined
And we are lucky you've been bitten.
Because I remember watching you on the stage when you were in high school.
And now that's your major in college, and you're coming back to do it here?
Yeah. That's awesome.
SPEAKER5: Goes full circle. (09:56):
undefined
SPEAKER1: It sure does. And how about you? (09:57):
undefined
My name is Jordan Hake.
I was an OSD grad of 2019.
SPEAKER6: My college journey has been a little bit bumpier, but I have finally found my place. (10:03):
undefined
I'm currently at Madison College working on -- Oh, I just signed up for it.
I don't remember what it's called anymore, but it's in the realm of videographyand.
SPEAKER1: Oh yes, because you work for OCA Media. (10:19):
undefined
Yes, I do. We see you working for them all the time.
SPEAKER6: I'm around the town. (10:23):
undefined
SPEAKER1: That's terrific. (10:24):
undefined
So now on to the musical.
What's your role in the musical, each of you, and how is rehearsal been going?
SPEAKER5: So I'm playing the part of Gaston, the -- the villain of the story. (10:31):
undefined
It's -- it's been such a fun time.
It's a role that I never would have expected to get, but I've had a blast withit.
I know being -- like specifically the numbers that he is in, it's just such afun time because you're around, you're around so many people and it's it's it's
(10:52):
all people that I've grown up with that I've been familiar with.
And funny enough, this is the first time ever that I've gotten to share thestage with my mother.
SPEAKER1: Really? Oh, that's great. (11:01):
undefined
SPEAKER5: And it's been such a fun time. (11:02):
undefined
Just having a blast with everyone on there, especially with numbers like Gastonand the Mob song towards the end.
And it's just one of those parts that I personally -- it's one of those thingswhere you as an actor, you always have to try and find a connection to the
character. He's an interesting one to do it with, but it's one of those thingswhere once you find it, you just get to lose yourself in it and have such a fun
(11:27):
time.
SPEAKER1: Well, his songs are so fun. (11:28):
undefined
They're so fun. So I can see that.
How about you, Jordan?
SPEAKER6: Well, I'm the stage manager, so my role is a little bit different in this production. (11:33):
undefined
I balance the what's happening on stage with the what's happening backstage andmaking sure communication flows all the way through.
I think this rehearsal process has been not when I initially expected, but it'sbeen a fun process.
And getting to know all 59 of our cast members has been an exciting adventure.
(11:56):
And when I learned three weeks in, I already knew everybody's names.
I was so proud of myself.
Knowing everybody and just getting to know them.
And we have so many different fun personalities on stage.
And all of them, all 59 of them have a unique skill set and fun facts aboutthemselves they share.
And it's just it's an awesome experience.
SPEAKER1: Well, that's what's going to make the production great, right? (12:17):
undefined
All of these different people coming together for something.
SPEAKER6: So many. So (12:22):
undefined
SPEAKER1: fun. Did you do stage management when you were in high school? (12:23):
undefined
SPEAKER6: I did not do stage management. (12:26):
undefined
My -- I started in the pit.
Then I went on stage and then I did some backstage.
And so you did theater.
SPEAKER1: You just didn't do that portion of it? (12:37):
undefined
Yes. Okay. I gotcha.
So summers can be busy and committing to a show like this takes a lot of time.
Why was it important to you to be a part of this?
SPEAKER5: So for me, it was it was kind of a few reasons. (12:47):
undefined
Straw Hat's been in my blood for a long time.
SPEAKER1: What's the first show (12:52):
undefined
SPEAKER5: you ever did? First show I did with Straw Hat specifically was Music Man back in 2010, I think. (12:52):
undefined
SPEAKER1: Oh, so you must have played the role of the little boy? (12:58):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Oh, no. I was just one of the little, like, little marching band kids. (13:00):
undefined
SPEAKER1: Oh, gotcha. (13:03):
undefined
SPEAKER5: But that's where it's sort of this story for me has come full circle because a long time ago, when I was at the ripe young age of four, my first show was (13:04):
undefined
Beauty and the Beast, where I played a little dancing napkin.
And and my dad was Lumiere.
And funny enough, Eric.
Funny enough, Eric Shirpe, who is our current Cogsworth in this production, wasalso Cogsworth in that same production 18 years ago.
(13:27):
So it feels like a really big full circle moment for me.
And it's it's something that I as soon as Straw Hat announced they were doingit, I was like, I must I -- it's like I've got to I've got to make it full
circle. And it's been one of those things where Straw Hat has been in my blood.
My, my, my mom has done it for a long time.
(13:48):
My dad was there pretty much since the beginning.
Both of my brothers have been a part of it.
My sister in law is the current president of the board.
Oh, wow. And so it's just it's a long running thing with our family.
And we love the Oregon community so much that we are always looking for ways tobring entertainment to sort of to go.
SPEAKER1: From the dancing napkin to Gaston. (14:07):
undefined
That's a big leap in 18 years.
SPEAKER5: Consider it a glow up. (14:11):
undefined
SPEAKER1: I think. Yeah, I think that's pretty cool. (14:12):
undefined
How about you, Jordan?
SPEAKER6: Well, I mean, speaking of fun facts about our cast members, I learned another one there. (14:15):
undefined
There you go. I, I think -- it's just been it's just been an insane experience.
SPEAKER1: You can spend your time a lot of ways, right? (14:29):
undefined
SPEAKER6: My my time is spent a lot of different directions. (14:31):
undefined
But I think the reason why I come back here is also long time connections.
Back at the very beginning of Straw Hat, my mom was a part of the very firstproduction, so -- Oh, I didn't know
SPEAKER1: that about your mom and I know your mom from working in the school district. (14:46):
undefined
SPEAKER6: So long time coming. (14:49):
undefined
And when I found theater in high school, um, a part of me was like, "Oh, I'mgetting to spend a lot of time with people." And I was really, really
shy in school. And so I was like, I can show a little part of me and I don'thave to be me because I can be this character and that's not me.
Right? Oh, wow. And so I learned that aspect of being able to have a characterwhich has helped me through life and difficult situations
(15:16):
and this doing these in the summer is it's just a fun time.
Like it's part of fun.
So we're work in the summer's a little bit slower, so I have some free time todo my fun things.
So I do my fun things, which is productions like Beauty and the Beast.
SPEAKER1: That's so insightful though, that you knew at that point in your development that being involved with theater was going to help you. (15:34):
undefined
SPEAKER6: Yeah. (15:40):
undefined
SPEAKER1: So what's special part about this production or your part? (15:41):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Either one? I'm thinking of the production specifically. (15:45):
undefined
I think it's we take that classic phrase, a tale as old as time and likereally, really like to adapt it.
Very early on, our dramaturg uh -- not Duane Draper.
My bad. I get both your names mixed up a lot of times.
We've been
SPEAKER4: around together a long time. (16:04):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Exactly. Our dramaturg David Lauver has really stressed to us in the very early rehearsals the literary history that has come with Beauty and the Beast, how (16:05):
undefined
it's a long running story that has been told long before the Disney version.
And it's something that we've we really want to appreciate that those roots andthe long oral and written tradition that has come with the story of Beauty and
(16:27):
the Beast. With Gaston, it's been very interesting because he was invented byDisney as sort of the main foil to their idea.
And I think his his role in the entire thing, other than being the very funcomedic relief, the guy that has the very fun songs.
It's very interesting because with Belle and The Beast, you see a lot of likebeauty is found within.
(16:49):
That's a big, big notion in the story is that while the beast out -- hisoutward appearance may be something horrifying and scary, inside, he's a really,
like, nice and gentle person.
While Gaston has that big that big like loud and like very much the idol of thetown kind of energy.
But deep down there's something sinister lurking within him.
(17:10):
And I think that's something that, you know, we never really think about in ourday to day lives is that people put on these outward appearances, but you never
really know what's going on inside.
SPEAKER1: That connects a little bit with what Jordan said about being able to play a character, right? (17:20):
undefined
Because you didn't want to necessarily let everybody see what's down deepinside.
Yeah, it's just a lot of deep thinking around these stories.
So what's next for your post production and post summer?
What's next for you guys?
SPEAKER5: Well, I'm going to be heading back to to Millikin to finish up my senior year of college. (17:41):
undefined
Scary. But after that, then I got to start finding out where I'm going to beheading in terms of like acting career, in terms of musicals.
My plan right now is possibly heading down to the coast, like sort of theFlorida coast to start working on cruise ships.
Oh, fun. So because I've been on it once, I was like, "Wow, that seemsincredibly fun to do," so that's that's my current post-graduation plans.
SPEAKER1: Well, that's great. (18:08):
undefined
SPEAKER6: My post summer plans include a college, so I'm going for an associate's -- will be starting an associate's. (18:10):
undefined
And by the time I complete my associate's, I will have an associate and threecertificates.
And I hope to use those to capture the moments in the community and momentslike Beauty and the Beast and all the other special little
(18:33):
moments that happen that not always get noticed just within a within a smallcommunity like this and be able to spread the word and capture those.
SPEAKER1: That's beautiful. (18:41):
undefined
So finally, whenever we have the opportunity to speak to alumni, I like to askthis question "What did you think was the most valuable thing you learned in the
OSD that helped you prepare for the path you've taken?" And do you have anyadvice for current students?
Oh, that can be --
SPEAKER4: Can I speak at this one? (19:00):
undefined
Because mine goes way, way back, doesn't it?
Um, there were some really terrific educators in the Oregon School District.
There always have been.
And I never thought I would be a teacher.
Although if you know my family's background, it might not surprise you so much.
But they were really centered on developing every kid in whatever they weregood at and letting them find their pathway.
(19:26):
And I would speak to finding yourself and really being true to who you are.
And and you might not know right away.
For me, it took a couple of years to figure it out.
But when I look back after the time and talked about some of these people thatI worked with, I'm very grateful for their work.
And I could list a dozen of them easily who really connected.
(19:48):
So I think we have such great teachers.
I'm sure we still do here in the Oregon School District that they really careabout students and and letting everyone find success no matter what that might
be.
SPEAKER1: Thank you. (19:59):
undefined
SPEAKER5: Very much. Going along with what Dwayne just brilliantly said. (20:02):
undefined
Trust your educators.
They they know what's up.
Specifically for me, there was a long time music music teacher back in mymiddle school days, Miss Patricia Hetland, who long time
family friend of ours and a long time Straw Hatters, wonderful person.
She really encouraged me to keep going along the path of that I've takencurrently.
(20:28):
I specifically remember getting ready for an audition for I believe it wasAlice in Wonderland Junior with Straw Hat, where she helped me out because we're
a long time family friends.
And she goes, "Kyle, why are you not in choir?" And so really they they knowlike how best to help you along with what you're trying to go for.
And honestly, the biggest piece of advice, just be willing to try everything.
(20:50):
Like in no matter what your passion is, whether like in theater, because peoplethink like for theater very specifically, it's on stage, like that's what you're
doing. But there's so many other aspects as we can see that that that Jordan --like Jordan keeps us together pretty much.
Like we would be lost without Jordan.
We'd be lost without Dwayne.
Like, really think about, like, there's so many things even within your ownpassions that you can look into.
(21:12):
Like even for sports, like, say you've been playing one position or just onesport your entire time.
Feel free to, like, try something new and you'll never know what you're whatyou're going to find like really interesting and something that excites you and
just be willing to to give it a shot.
Don't -- It's weird saying like, "don't stay within your own shell," but likereally just be be willing to to reach out and people will help you along the
(21:35):
way.
SPEAKER6: Take that step. (21:35):
undefined
Yeah, absolutely.
Like and I don't know that I could add any more to what's already been said,but no matter how shy or outspoken
you are or feel you have to be, be willing to either turn that off some days orheck,
(21:58):
if you're -- if you're in any of the musics and you're like, "Hey, I want totry," find out all the other options, because even within the high school
theater productions, you don't have to be on stage.
Absolutely not. You can be in the pit, you can help with sound, you can helpwith lights.
You could be the person who's running around doing the props.
There's so many roles within theater and within the rest of the school, there'sthere's so many other programs like the the FFA program they have here, all the
(22:27):
different shop classes.
It's just being willing to take take that study hall that you may want to signup for and say, "Oh, that class looks interesting." Try taking that class
because who know you may, you may, you may make a new friend, you may find anew passion.
Who knows? You won't know until you've taken a step out of your comfort zoneand tried.
(22:50):
And it sounds scary.
And as a shy kid in high school, trust me, I get it.
But it will benefit you in the long run.
And it's it's okay to take that step and be totally, completely shaking in thatvery first meeting or that very first class.
It's okay. And you will make it through.
SPEAKER1: Thank you so much for speaking with us today. (23:06):
undefined
We can't wait to see this performance.
Thanks to our listeners for tuning in this week.
Beauty and the Beast performances are August 5th, 6yh, 10th, 11th and 12th atthe Oregon High School Performing Arts Center.
You can get your tickets online at OregonPerformingArtsCenter.com.
(23:30):
Remember that you can find links to all episodes of Inside the OSD and submittopic ideas on our website at OregonSD
.org/podcast. You can find this podcast anywhere you can find podcasts.
Make sure to subscribe if you're listening on one of these apps to getnotifications on the most recent episodes.
(23:51):
We'll see you next time on Inside the OSD, where it's all about the kids.
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