We’ve made it through the first month of the new school year, and while quadratic equations and research papers might be fun for some, we’re ready to talk real fun. Like the “This is what I’m doing Friday night” kind of fun. When the homework is finished and the errands are done, in Waconia, there’s always an extensive rotating list full of gametime excitement, action-packed tournaments, and talented ensembles lighting up the stage. Here are just a couple — and there’s plenty more where that came from.
Waconia Theatre Department
This month, the Waconia High School Theatre Program lights up the stage with Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Bailey Willhite, Theatre Director, and Melissa Ricard, Assistant Theatre Director at Waconia High School, are eager to share this beloved production and the cast of students with the community. “I’m most excited to put on a show with no lines. I think the audience will be surprised by how much they enjoy it,” Melissa shares. Bailey emphasizes that this timeless story gives the students a chance to sing, dance, and perform in so many different styles. “It’s a true showcase of their talent and hard work.” And the energy the musical styles — from country western to Elvis-inspired rock ‘n’ roll bring? Let’s just say it paints a technicolor story all its own. “Each scene feels like a new surprise, and it keeps the energy high from start to finish,” Bailey adds.
Along with all the vibrant colors on stage and the charm of the children’s chorus (made up of 10-12 elementary and middle school students), Melissa predicts that the audience will be delighted. “I think anyone skeptical about public high school tackling a religious musical will walk away impressed and understand why this show is so immensely popular across generations.” After the final bow, this creative pair hopes the audience leaves having had fun, impressed by the students’ talent and maybe even attempting to recite the colors from the song “Joseph’s Coat” (good luck with that!). “Most of all, we hope they leave feeling the joy, humor, and heart that make Joseph such a special show.”
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat will be performed at the Waconia High School Performing Arts Center from October 9th to 12th. Tickets are available at CUR8.com — just search for “Waconia.”
Boys Varsity Soccer
The boys' soccer season is in full swing, and according to Ty Seim, Waconia boys varsity coach, the team is ready to light up the field. “We have a large group of players that started in Waconia when they were seven and eight years old. Considering most varsity coaches don’t meet their players until they get to high school, it’s been pretty awesome to be alongside them as they’ve grown.”
Ty shares that even though they’re in the toughest section in the state, with five of the nine biggest schools – Minnetonka, Prior Lake, Edina, Eden Prairie, and Shakopee – he feels they have a great chance to contend for a conference title. “We have a whole cast of characters that can play multiple positions; they learn really fast, and work hard all year.” He goes on to say how great it is to see the players support each other and the genuine excitement that echoes throughout the team. “In my 21 years of coaching soccer, I’ve learned that in Waconia, people really show up for their teams.” He hopes that as the fans pack up and head home after an action-packed game, they remember the excitement and passion these kids have for the game of soccer.
We have a whole cast of characters that can play multiple positions; they learn really fast, and work hard all year.