As Joci Scott and Noah Sigsworth begin their practice, they act, sing and dance with a large group of students that extend beyond their own school. They repeat routines with theatre enthusiasts from all around Akron. Brushing nerves aside, they perform their well-rehearsed routines for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast with confidence and excitement for the new atmosphere.

Revere High School juniors Scott and Sigsworth have both participated in Revere Players for three years. This year, they auditioned and will perform in the Akron All-City Musical, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. About fifty high school students from various schools in Summit County will assemble this musical theatre production under the direction of Mark Zimmerman, the Firestone High School theater director. Scott discussed her interest in the musical and the benefits of participating in the production.

“I wanted to join the musical simply because I love to perform, and I wanted to make new friends who share the same interests that I have. I believe this experience will help me later in life because it is allowing me to branch out and make more connections in the theatre world. For example, I am very comfortable with [Laurie] Russell since I have been working with her for several years now. I have not been a part of any of [Zimmerman]’s productions yet, and I am interested to see what kind of feedback he will give me and how his opinion will help me improve as a whole. Additionally, when Revere put on Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, I was part of the village and castle ensemble as well. Since it was the first musical I was ever in, it will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am excited to revisit the show and make new friends from other schools,” Scott said.

Sigsworth also mentioned his interest in the show and what he will gain from a new theatre experience.

“My sisters were both in the All-City Musical, Ragtime, a few years ago, and that inspired me. It is great to meet people from other schools because it exposes you to different cultures and personalities. I have always enjoyed performing, and I love working with people as a team,” Sigsworth said.

Scott auditioned for the show at the Civic Theatre. She explained the audition and callback process that she went through to earn a role.

“For the audition, I was asked to prepare about 30 seconds worth of a Broadway song of my choice, acapella, which means no accompaniment. I went up to the three people sitting at the panel, introduced myself, sang my song, then I did a cold read, which means no preparation, of the scene where the Beast lets Belle return to her sick father. Then, a few days later, I received an email letting me know that I was asked to come back to the callbacks. At the callbacks, we were taught about a minute long dance combination from ‘Be Our Guest’,” Scott said.

Scott landed a role as one of the Silly Girls, who swoon over Gaston in the show. Sigsworth will sing as a member of the chorus and wear a costume to portray dancing silverware.

Scott’s mother Dr. Tara Scott encouraged Scott to audition for the show and has supported her throughout her performing career. She explained Scott’s strengths in performing and mentioned her influence on the show.

“[Scott] is a great team player and is able to motivate others. Her love of performing shines through and she provides cohesiveness. Obviously, she gets a chance to show off her pitch and stage presence,” she said.

The show will run on June 17 at 7:30 pm and June 18 at 2:30 pm and 7:30 pm at the Akron Civic Theatre.

As the performers exit the auditorium, they appreciate their opportunity to work with new directors and students. They anticipate an exciting first performance.

UPDATE: Sigsworth recently received a promotion to the role of Lumiere, the humorous candelabra who advises the Beast.