Things are going to be looking a little different behind the scenes of North High’s theater productions this year. The musical has a new director, which means big changes could be coming to the theater program.
The Junior Players, North High’s theater group, rehearse and perform a full-length musical every year during the fall. This year, the school bids goodbye to former director Christopher Giordano, who oversaw theater productions at North High for the past three years. In his place, Michael Norberto, who is also an english teacher at North Middle, will be the new director for Junior Players productions. This year’s musical, a teen-oriented edition of “Chicago”, will be the first production directed by Norberto. The musical will be performed for audiences at the North High auditorium from Nov. 21-23.
By the end of the 2024-25 school year, after several successful productions such as a rendition of “Beauty and the Beast” and after selecting “Chicago” as the following year’s musical, Giordano stepped down from his position as director. He did so following budget cuts to arts programs and the demotion of the directorial position from a full-time to part-time commitment. With the theater company needing an in-district alternative, they turned to Norberto, who was previously involved in summertime shows at South High and productions at South Middle. His arrival marks a change in the role of theater director at North as it is no longer a full-time position.
What does this change mean for the actors? Well, many of them think that the arrival of a new director will bring changes to the show and the atmosphere of the theater itself.
“It’s been less stressful with Norberto, but there’s a lot more responsibility put on the students in the cast,” junior Lindsay Stoller said. “We also have a choreographer this year, which hasn’t happened before, and it’s made our performances stronger.”
The arrival of a new director will inevitably symbolize change, whether it be positive or negative, but with new developments made, such as organized choreography, the future is looking bright.
“It feels more chill than previous years. Every show needs a little straightening out and I hope our show turns out well because of it,” senior Lana Goldsmith said.
With opening night approaching, despite the pressure, Norberto and his cast are working hard in order to deliver an exciting performance. For the cast, the changing of the guard represents a new era in North theater history.
The change in leadership offers new opportunities for outreach and connection that could greatly benefit both them and the Great Neck community.
“I’m excited to see the musical this year, and I hope even with someone new the actors can continue to shine,” junior Warren Harilal said.
Off the stage, it’s up to Norberto and the program to ensure that the Junior Players advertise and showcase the beauty of the arts to everyone in the community, which, with the momentum of new leadership behind them, pave the way for endless opportunities. Without a doubt, Norberto and the cast and crew of Chicago will continue to thrive.
