“Bring It On: The Musical”: Ida Baker High School Drama to put on musical
Drama students at one high school are ready to “bring it” next week with a new musical.
Ida S. Baker High School will present “Bring It On: The Musical” on Thursday and Friday at 7 p.m., followed by performances at 2 and 7 p.m. on April 30 at the school. The public is invited to attend.
Tickets cost $7 for adults and $5 for students; they can be purchased day of at the door.
Laura Licata, the drama director, explained that this is the first time a Lee County school has done “Bring It On: The Musical.” Debuted on Broadway in 2012, the production earned Tony nominations. Originally rated PG-13, the school received permission to rewrite the show to make it a PG rating.
“So everyone can come out and bring their kids and not be shocked,” she said.
“Bring It On: The Musical” is a story about Campbell, a high school senior who is finally named captain of the cheerleading squad. However, another student manipulates the system to get Campbell transferred to an inner city school. The school does not have a squad, so she joins the dance crew.
“And they make up their own cheer squad,” Licata said.
During the story, Campbell learns memories and experiences are more valuable than winning.
“It’s about the journey, it’s about who you are on the journey and the decisions you make,” she said.
“It’s about self-realization and relationships, and it’s about forgiveness,” Licata added.
She called the program intensive because it entails the cheer element, with acting and singing.
“When I pick a musical, I have to pick one that the kids can bite into,” Licata said.
She noted that the school’s drama program is very student driven.
“The students are involved in the planning, the production. This year, they were involved in the choreography,” Licata said. “They did the set building and publicity design. The pit is student-run.”
There are approximately 36 students involved in the show.
The lead roles are being play by Samantha Licata as Campbell and Ekko Corland as Danielle.
“We have, I think, five seniors in the play, four or five juniors and some sophomores,” she said, adding that there are also a handful of freshmen involved, which is unusual for a high school production.
The music production is being handled by Lauramae Ball.
“I think this is one of the best musicals we’ve put on,” Licata said. “We’ve stepped up our game.”
The proceeds from the production go back into the school’s drama program.
“They’re really excited about it,” she said.
The public is encouraged to grab a ticket for the show.
“It’s really cool for the community to come out and see a show put on by the kids,” Licata said.
For more information on “Bring It On: The Musical,” email lauraal@leeschools.net.
Ida S. Baker High School is at 3500 Agualinda Blvd.