Musical ‘Modern Millie’ brings high-energy dancing, singing
Actors prepared for three months for intense roles
By Katie Hudson, contributing writer
Posted on February 12, 2007

With recent films like “The Producers,” “RENT” and “Chicago,” musicals are back instyle. Now the trend is making its way to JMU’s campus with the latest co-production between the school of theatre and dance and the school of music, “Thoroughly Modern Millie.”

The Broadway play, which won six Tony awards in 2002, portrays a young woman, Millie Dillmount, who pursues her dreams in New York City during the jazz-filled Roaring ‘20s.

Senior Kirstin Riegler plays the lead role of Millie.

“This role is the most challenging thing I have ever done,“ Riegler said. “But I have wanted to play Millie ever since I saw it on Broadway.”

Kate Arecchi, director of the musical who holds a M.F.A. in directing from Penn State, described the production as a musical comedy where themes are couched in high-energy dance numbers, songs and somewhat over-the-top comedy. Arecchi knew the production would be difficult, as the actors would have to perform demanding musical and dance numbers.

For “Thoroughly Modern Millie” to be successful, Arecchi realized experienced and well-trained actors were a must.

The production involves three-and-a-half months of preparing and intense rehearsals following Winter Break.

“My energy has to be 100 percent during the whole show,” Riegler said. “The hardest part is to tap dance and still be able to produce a strong sound.”

Besides the acting and singing portion of the play, theme proved to be another challenging aspect.

Costume, scenic, lighting and sound designers all met to discuss the themes in the musical.

“One of the prevalent themes in ‘Thoroughly Modern Mille’ is transformation, so we wanted to make sure this idea could be found in the costuming,” Arecchi said.

The months of preparation, set design, musical training and choreography was especially rewarding for junior Jake Odmark, who plays Millie’s love interest, Jimmy.

“I absolutely loved working on this show,” Odmark said. “I’m starring next to one of my best friends, as well as tons of other close friends.”

“Thoroughly Modern Millie” will be showing at Latimer-Shaeffer Theatre Feb. 13 to 17 at 8 p.m. There will also be a matinee Sunday, Feb. 18 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $10 general admission and $6 for children under 12, senior citizens, and JAC Card holders.