Early in the school year, both fall play and musical were without a director and without a direction.
But the addition of one new director and the return of one old one mean that both fall play and musical can continue engaging the students.
Debate coach and former fall play director Peter Shaheen took on the role of play director, while theatre veteran Tiffany Victoria Sims was tapped to be this year’s musical director.
“We do as of now have a director,” said senior Kelsey Jackson, one of the driving forces behind musical.
Jackson’s mother, Tobi Jackson, is head of the musical boosters, and played a part in bringing the new director to Seaholm’s musical.
That director is Tiffany Victoria Sims, who is a first-timer when it comes to Seaholm’s musical, but has a wealth of directorial and theatre experience.
In 2002, Sims founded a program called Project DayDream. Project DayDream is a performing arts company that uses the arts to nurture creativity and a love of theatre in Detroit area youth.
In the past, Sims has directed several musicals through her Dream Players Productions program. Her company produces camps and seminars throughout the year that are designed to bring the arts into the classroom, as well as oversees several children’s choirs.
“I’m one of those theatre babies,” Sims said.
Knowing that Seaholm’s musical plays a big part in the community, Sims said that it was “humbling” to be chosen to direct.
“I’m more than excited,” said Sims. “I’m honored.”
Fall play director Peter Shaheen is less of a newcomer to the Seaholm community, but is equally excited about this year’s play.
Shaheen, a debate coach and Flex teacher, has directed six fall plays in the past. His plays are truly a family affair, utilizing the talents of his wife and daughter in each production.
“Barbara [his wife] does the staging and producing. Natalie [his daughter] focuses on the acting, and I am responsible for the stupid jokes,” said Shaheen.
Throughout September, it appeared unlikely that either that either the musical or the fall play would take place, due to both a lack of interest and lack of a director.
Debi Green, who directed fall play last year, said that, though she loved being involved in Seaholm theatre, she felt that now was the time to step down.
“Sometimes the landscape of your life just changes,” said Greene.
“It wasn’t a decision that I came to easily or lightly, but it was the right thing to do.”
Jenn Palmer, who directed last year’s production of Footloose, cited similar reasons for lessening her involvement in musical.
“I’m certain I can’t tear myself away completely,” said Palmer, noting that directing is simply a huge time commitment.
Still, she says, “[directing] was the coolest experience.”
A perceived lack of interest may also be an issue for Seaholm’s two productions, but veterans are confident that students will step up to participate.
“We lost a lot of seniors, but I’m sure people will come out of the woodwork soon—guys especially,” said Jackson regarding musical.
“Yeah, [the play] can be a commitment,” said Wolfe.
“But it’s definitely worth it.”
