Having fun was at heart of musical

BIRDIE, from Page 28

“The dance numbers were especially hard for me, but in the end, I got the steps and I am super proud of myself for nailing the numbers for my own sake as well as the audience members’ enjoyment and for my fellow castmates,” said Bryce Turner, a senior, who played songwriter Albert Peterson.

He credited the show’s Music Director Nick McWilliams for being supportive when there were questions or rough spots.

“He was right there to tell me that it’ll get better, it will be fine and to shake it off and try again,” Turner said.

Holtzman said she and McWilliams are trying to grow their music and drama programs, so Encore and “Bye Bye Birdie” were a chance for the pair of them to show both new and veteran performers and production team members what they had to offer.

“There were definitely times I pushed them and challenged them, but the students were and are thankful for the push,” Holtzman said. “They realize that is what makes a really successful show.”