THE ECHO

By Sofie Westdyke // Reporter

In the Avon High School theater office, Doctor Caitlyn Steckbeck takes notice of multiple theater shows, determining which one will be perfect for the Avon theater program to perform.

Every year, Avon High School puts on three to four shows, and with thousands of theatrical shows around the world, the decision can be challenging. Steckbeck, Avon High School’s theater director, is the one person that makes this possible.

“I have to look at the needs of the show and the talent that I have,” Steckbeck said. “So, looking at how many boys versus girls I have or if it’s a show with a massive tap number, probably not going to do that one.”

It is currently Steckbeck’s 11th year at Avon, and every year the decisions are not easy for her. The challenges of availability, expenses, and students are often factors that make or break her final selection.

“Something that is really expensive that people don’t realize is flying people,” said Steckbeck. “None of it is something that I can keep or reuse.”

In the end, Steckbeck has the final say, with some help from collaborators such as Mrs. Gibbons-Hatton. She pays close attention to auditions, listening to see which student will be the next lead in an upcoming show.

Avon’s theater program consists of hundreds of students, and it continues to grow every new school year. Izzy Warrum, a sophomore, has been doing theater since seventh grade and says theater has been a creative outlet for her and many others.

“I think it’s important to have an outlet for creativity because it builds personality and character for yourself,” Warrum said.

Warrum has a passion to do a production of Hadestown, as it is her personal favorite. Theater has allowed her to strive for wanting to work hard to be a leading role and be recognized for performances.

“The way you perform something kind of gives people an idea of what you’re feeling,” Warrum said.

Theater students audition for roles they would love to do. Warrum says that it is a very nerve-wracking experience, but no one talks or snickers, which makes auditioning feel more comfortable for her.

“You stand in a room with multiple people and sing in front of everybody,” said Warrum. “It’s a little disturbing when you know there are upper classmen watching you.”

Adrienne Guggenheim, a sophomore and past lead at Avon Middle School North’s first ever musical, has also done theater since seventh grade. She says theater has helped her become better at acting.

“I feel like, if I wanted to, I could make a career out of this,” Guggenheim said.

Auditions often make her nervous, but having the support of her friends makes her feel good. Guggenheim is open to doing any production. She says she’d be happy with anything.

“If you don’t do well in the audition, there is still a possibility of getting in because theater is a really welcoming place,” Guggenheim said.

Thespians always find ways to promote their shows. The Thespian page is often where shows are announced, as well as the Avon Theater Instagram page. Tickets and information about the show can also be found there, too. Students also go around school and neighborhoods to hand out printed posters.

Steckbeck ensures that each role assigned is right and that they can perform it to the best of their ability. She says that she wants to prevent any theatrical trauma and make theater a place for positive experiences.

As Steckbeck looks at a show’s description and demand, she eventually comes to one final decision that will soon be Avon High School’s next theater production.

“It’s thinking about the overall experience for the kids,” said Steckbeck. “When they’re standing on stage performing, they are able to feel confident in what they are doing and proud of what they have worked on.”