Musical Tickets on Sale Now
EMHS’ talented students are busy as they prepare to bring the classic musical, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” to the stage. February 27 and 28 at 7 PM, and March 1 at 3 PM, the production will be a profound exploration of timeless themes such as prejudice, faith, and love, set against the backdrop of 15th-century Paris.
Under the guidance of beloved director Joy Anderson, the students have been working tirelessly to embody the intricate characters and complex emotions that Victor Hugo’s classic tale demands. Follow Quasimodo, played by Lewis Yoder ‘26 and Jackson Comfort ‘26, the isolated bell-ringer of Notre Dame Cathedral, as he navigates life under the watchful eye of Archdeacon Frollo, portrayed by Marshall Nichols ‘26. Witness the intense struggle that ensues when Frollo’s sinister obsession with the enchanting Romani dancer Esmeralda, played by Sienna Kauffman ‘27.
We recently had the chance to interview director, Joy Anderson about the show.
Q: Why did you choose this show?
Anderson: Initially, I had another show in mind, but some of the students encouraged me to consider this one. It’s an important show because it highlights marginalized communities and presents characters as multidimensional—neither entirely good nor evil. Unlike most musicals, it doesn’t wrap up with a happy ending. It captures the complexity of human nature, with both cruelty and kindness coexisting. The songs, especially “Someday,” resonate deeply with these themes.
Q: What year of musicals is this for you? What is surprising you?
Anderson: This marks my 11th musical with EMS. Every year I have a vision for the set, choreography, music, and artwork, lighting, but something magical happens that surprises me, its so much better than what I had envisioned. A creative synergy emerges each time as Malea Gascho and the students craft art pieces, Bin-Shin So choreographs, Daryl Brubaker and Ethan Zook work on the set, Liz Marin and Thad Jackson co-assistant directors and alumni give cues and Mark Gornto perfects lighting as technical director – all these things together – make magic. The production takes on a life of its own, becoming exponentially more powerful than I ever imagined. I shouldn’t be surprised, but I always am.
Q: How does this work change everyone involved?
Anderson: Artistically, collaborating intensively makes us a stronger community. The story challenges us to delve deep and ask tough questions, which is where its true power lies. We portray characters with unsettling complexities, requiring thoughtful conversations with the students as we bring the character to the stage. Playing these nuanced roles demands we explore and embrace these complexities together, enriching both our understanding and our bonds, handling these stories with maturity and care.
This ambitious project has provided students with an opportunity to delve deep into the rich narrative, allowing them to find personal meaning and relevance in the age-old themes. As they navigate the challenges of portraying such complex characters, the students are not only honing their craft but also engaging in meaningful discussions about the broader societal issues reflected in the story.
One actor noted, “This is a really important story to tell, especially right now.”
You don’t want to miss this year’s musical. Tickets for the performances, which will take place in the EMS Auditorium, are available at easternmennonite.org/tickets.
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