Florida State University recently showcased the second annual “Preview @ FSU” series, a unique collaboration between the College of Music and the School of Theatre through the Music Theatre Program.
This year’s performance, “Amelia and Me,” written by Stacey Luftig and Phillip Palmer, tells the story of pioneering pilot Amelia Earhart and her friendship with fellow aviator Jackie Cochran. Set in 1935, the musical explores the events leading up to Amelia’s final flight and highlights the bond between these two remarkable women.
The series is a new works initiative that provides a platform for students to work closely with professional writers and composers, offering the students hands-on experience in the early stages of musical development.
“Through this series, we aim to provide our students with the opportunity to be part of a new musical in its early stages,” said Alisa Hauser, assistant professor of music theatre and program director. “This experience is crucial for their professional preparation, as it mirrors the work they will do in the industry after graduation. The series not only benefits the students but also provides invaluable support to the writers and composers.”
Developing a new musical theatre production takes a lot of resources. This program gives students the chance to build their skills by participating from start to finish in the process.
“With this opportunity to come here, we provide rehearsal space, accompanists, student stage managers and assistants,” Hauser said. “It’s invaluable for the writers, and it is something that writers are hungry for.”
The performance was held at the Augusta Conradi Studio Theatre, providing an intimate setting for this powerful story.
“One of the most heartwarming moments during the performance of ‘Amelia and Me’ was when, on two separate evenings, we unexpectedly discovered that members of Amelia Earhart and Jackie Cochran’s distant family were in the audience,” said Chari Arespacochaga, associate professor at the School of Theatre and director of the MFA Directing program. “It was such a surprise and added a special connection to our performance, knowing that we were sharing this story with people who have a personal link to Amelia’s legacy.”
Arespacochaga said students contribute significantly to the developing production, highlighting strengths of the interpretive vision and helping identify areas for potential improvement.
“The experience gained through the ‘Preview @ FSU’ series is invaluable for our students. It prepares them to face real-world challenges in music theatre, showcasing their talents and dedication. They leave the program not only with a deep understanding of their craft but also with the confidence to navigate the complexities of the professional world.”
— Chari Arespacochaga, director of the MFA Directing program
“The experience gained through the ‘Preview @ FSU’ series is invaluable for our students,” she said. “It prepares them to face real-world challenges in music theatre, showcasing their talents and dedication. They leave the program not only with a deep understanding of their craft but also with the confidence to navigate the complexities of the professional world.”
BFA Music Theatre senior students Teegan SinClair, who portrayed Jackie Cochran, and Charlotte Ennen, who played the role of Amelia Earhart, learned to pivot and trust the creative process.
“It’s a special process because things change and pivot as we go, and we get to know the people who have created the piece,” Ennen said. “This is the perfect opportunity to do it first at school, where it’s okay to make mistakes, and I have my trusted teachers by my side to help me through it.”
The students’ unique opportunity to perform “Amelia and Me” and their dedication have showcased the benefits of having hands-on experience in musical theater.
“Being part of ‘Amelia and Me’ has been transformative for me as a performer,” SinClair said. “The process of taking notes and adjusting our performances to better align with the vision of the writers has taught me so much about adaptability and collaboration. I’ve learned to trust my instincts while also being open to feedback and changes. This hands-on experience has truly broadened my understanding of the complexities involved in bringing a new musical to life.”
For more information, visit music.fsu.edu.