The cast of “The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever” sits atop the stage in the newly renovated Richard J. Bailey theater with scripts in hands and all eyes on one of the musical’s creators, Betina Hersey. On this special day, the young performers learned about the creative process of writing a musical, the ideas behind the story, and how the musical’s characters were developed.
“The idea came from a thought. What would happen if all the adults mysteriously vanished in the middle of a birthday party, and the kids had to create a new society? Ms. Hersey told the students. “How do you make the personality of a character? Are they based on real people or just made up?” asked one of the cast members. “Some of the characters are imagined, and sometimes inspired by real people,” answered Ms. Hershey.
Students were interested to learn about how Ms. Hershey became a professional actor, musician, and writer. She told the students that it started at a very young age. “I wrote my first song at the age of 5 with my mom,” she said. “I think all of us have things that excite us. Keep searching for the things you are interested and passionate about. That will lead you on the journey to where you want to be.”
After the Q&A session, students proudly performed several scenes from the musical for its author. Ms. Hersey would give them feedback at the end of the musical numbers. “I am impressed with your focus and intention in the scene, and how you know all your blocking,” she said. “I’ve seen this performed many times by students. It’s always such a treat to see how it’s done at other schools.”
The RJB Drama Club production of “The Most Epic Birthday Party” will take place on May 21st at 6:30pm.