The success of South Lakes High School drama department can be summed up in one word: family.
And in this case, it is one big extended family, at that. From the stars of the play to orchestra musicians and from the backstage technicians to the parent boosters, it takes a village the size of Reston to consistently put together quality performances, year in and year out.
"As always, I've got a great bunch of kids," said Maria Harris, the school's drama director. "It's going to be a great show."
The show is one of the classic American musicals, "Singin' in the Rain," and the actors are anxious for opening night. Some more so than others. "I still get nervous, definitely," said Shani McCrea, 16. "I think, you need that nervous energy to get you ready. It's definitely part of the fun."
While some students like McCrea worry about a flubbed line here or a misstep there, others worry that the show won't be ready for "primetime" come opening night next month.
"I am always a nervous wreck leading up to opening night, most of us are. I don't know how we do it," said senior Chloe Badawy, 17, a veteran of the South Lakes drama wars. "But somehow, it always comes together in time, and much of the credit goes to Mrs. Harris."
McCrea agreed. "I always think we aren't going to be ready," the animated junior said. "Don't ask me how we do it."
One of the reasons for the uncertainty and nerves is because of the many different components that go into the making of the play, the actors said, while taking time out from a recent practice. It's more than just the actors on the stage, Girardi said. "It's so much more than what the audience sees, it's the band, it's the orchestra, it's the backstage guys," the 18-year-old senior said. "It's a team and we all really love each other. The show isn't great without all of us working together. That is not easy."
With a musical, like "Singin' in the Rain," the music is obviously integral to the story and the ultimate success of the production, said Girardi, who will be attending Marymount University in the fall. "We are so grateful for the live music," she said. "It would be so different with the music on tape."
THE SUCCESS of the South Lakes drama department is its "family-like" atmosphere, the students agreed. "It starts with Mrs. Harris, she is amazing," Craig Lewis, 17, who is also captain of the dance team, said. "She's an amazing director, but more importantly, she is a great friend to all of us."
McCrea agreed. "She laughs with us. She takes care of us," the junior said. "It's as simple as that."
Part boss, part den mom, part mentor, Harris evokes passionate defense among her students.
A visitor to the South Lakes drama department is likely to find one or two students hanging out on Harris' couch or watching television in her office. "Anytime we can be together, we will be," Girardi said.
With practices and rehearsals stretching as late as 8 p.m., drama students can find themselves held captive in their school's halls for more than 12 hours a day leading up to a show. But the actors in "Singin' in the Rain" wouldn't have it any other way. "We all share a common bond, a common devotion and a shared confidence," said Badawy, a senior. "Unlike at some schools, it's never been about what part you are playing. Never."
THE STUDENT THESPIANS agreed that drama creates an inclusive environment because it doesn't matter how old you are or how much experience you may or may not have. McCrea had the lead role in last year's play when she was only a sophomore. "Drama is one of those rare things that everyone can do, no matter your age or grade," Lewis said. "It's not like basketball or football where you have a freshman and JV team. And that is great."
While the student actors are devoted to their drama department, they are also devoted to their school. "South Lakes gets a bad rap and that's not fair," said senior Dan Collier, 18. "I think that rap makes our whole school closer."
Girardi nodded her head. "We aren't the biggest school, but I would go anywhere. Since we aren't one of those 2,000-person schools, I know everyone in the senior class. I love that," Girardi said. "Other schools have cliques, but South Lakes is so down to earth."
The drama department reflects that inclusive atmosphere, McCrea said. Drama students support the athletic teams; athletes are frequently spotted in the audience of drama's latest production. "I am the biggest basketball fan in this school," said Girardi. "Go Seahawks."