With the tumult of politics and recent events in the news and social media, communities have become full of negativity. As people become overwhelmed, they tend to forget about the things that make them happy. Community gatherings are a great way for the people to come together in these dark moments. The upcoming musical, “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” originating from the 1850’s movie set in Oregon, is a high-spirited musical, featuring fast-paced dance numbers and light-hearted music.
“We wanted to do a show that was happy, that was upbeat; where people could bring their whole family,” said choir and theater director Cate Caffarella.
This musical is a reminder that when aggression and frustration builds up, it is important to step back and take a break; it’s nice to have a moment to enjoy a time when things were simpler.
“Especially in the political climate we are in right now, just having a very happy, joyous experience is really important,” Caffarella said.
The musical also touches on several social issues in the 1850s, such as sexism, which is counteracted by the power of the lead female, Milly.
“Milly is a very strong-headed, independent woman who doesn’t like being bossed around by everyone else,” said senior Makenzie Duda, who has taken on the role of Milly.” It’s cool to see a character like Milly, who’s a woman, have so much control over these seven other men.”
More than ever, it is important that, when in moments of resentment, people stop and turn to each other for support. Similarly, “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” illustrates the outcome of a solved conflict, when the characters realize their mistakes and forgive one another.
“I hope that the audience comes away with a sense of community,” Caffarella said. “It’s about the people in the town starting off very separated and coming together in the end.”
“Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” is a show anyone can enjoy with family, friends, and fellow neighbors for a light-hearted experience.

‘Seven Brides for Seven Brothers’

Book by Lawrence Kasha and David Landay
Lyrics by Johnny Mercer
Music by Gene de Paul
New songs by Al Kasha and Joel Hirschhorn

“Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” is a 1954 MGM musical based on a short story by Stephen Vincent Benet called “The Sobbin’ Women.” The story takes place in 19th Century Oregon , where a backwoodsman named Adam Pontipee decides that he needs a wife. He goes into town and quickly falls in love with a waitress named Milly. Though baffled, she agrees to his hasty marriage proposal. Though, when Milly moves in with Adam, she is unsuspectingly greeted by Adam’s six brothers. She quickly recognizes that all six brothers are ill-mannered, and proposes to help them find wives of their own by “Goin’ Courtin’.” Instead, however, Adam convinces his brothers to acquire their women in a more old-fashioned way — kidnapping them just like the Romans did with the “Sobbin’ Women”. . .

MARCH 9, 10, 16, and 17 at 7 p.m.
MARCH 8 for students, staff at 7 p.m.
MARCH 10 matinee at 1 p.m.

TICKETS $10-15
WAHS main office or online at
https://eventswest.ludus.com/