With patriotic flair, Dominican’s Drama Club members entered the dining hall center stage in November, donned in patriotic colors, to perform its annual Instant Theatre review. Hundreds of fans were in attendance for the annual event that showcased singing, dancing and acting. The annual showcase left the crowd saluting the students in this year’s theme, “Instant Theatre Wants You!”
The much-anticipated Instant Theatre also premiered the announcement of the 2020 Spring Musical, Newsies, which will debut in April.
For twenty-one years, Mrs. Rosalie Abadie, Drama Club moderator, has staged Instant Theatre. Mrs. Abadie sees this ensemble performance as an all-inclusive show that exposes drama members to the stage. “Instant Theatre gives students the opportunity to perform and choose the type of act which best shows off their particular talent,” said Mrs. Abadie.
This year’s Instant Theatre boasted a range of acts, from a scene from the movie Mean Girls presented by junior Olivia Olson to a song from the Broadway musical Waitress performed by junior Camille Vincent. The show also presented original pieces such as a contemporary dance by junior Emily Dominique and senior Kennedi Melancon, as well as skits written and performed by Drama Club members.
“We have an amazing community of talented girls who can put on a great show,” said senior Olivia Boudreaux, who participated in multiple acts, including a cover of Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind.”
“And the best part about Instant Theatre is the love and support each performer gets,” added Boudreaux.
In 1998, Instant Theatre started as a one-night performance in the Dramatics Assembly room (familiarly known as the D.A.) in St. Mary’s Hall. Instant Theatre grew to be such a hit that it had to become a two-night showcase and was moved into the Dining Hall.
Special Projects Director Mrs. Jessica Sita Couch (’05) participated in some of the first productions of Instant Theatre. Ms. Couch and her friends became known for doing “coffee talks” inspired by Saturday Night Live. “I’m so glad that Instant Theatre has gone so far since then,” said Mrs. Couch, “and that I have gotten to see the growth of the event and of the Drama Club.”
Instant Theatre’s popularity is evident. The seats were filled for both nights, with a total , attendance of about 350 people.
Some Drama Club members had to adjust to performing for such a sizable audience. “Stepping on stage and seeing the great crowd we brought in was overwhelming at first glance,” said sophomore Maddie Ascani, who sang “Keepin’ Out of Mischief Now” from the Broadway musical Ain’t Misbehavin’. “But as soon as I started to sing, I was confident in myself.”
Senior Iyian Paige, Drama Club president, holds Instant Theatre very close to her heart. “Instant Theatre can show you who you really are. I’ve heard club members say that they surprised themselves when they walk off stage after their first or final performance,” said Paige. “When you take the stage, it’s truly yours. Everyone is looking up at you and they’re full of nothing but support for you.”
Although Instant Theatre is not Broadway, it creates a connection between the students on stage and the great supporters of the Dominican community.
“Instant Theatre is not just a talent show,” said Paige. “It is a special showcase made by Dominican, for Dominican.”
- Lindsey Foles
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