AIDA is our high school musical that took place over four nights, from the 23rd-26th of January, 2019.

But to me, it was something much more magical that was built up from those four nights. It was 7 months of staying afterschool till five-thirty, six-thirty, and then eventually nine-thirty. It was learning songs that you’d never heard of, and attempting choreography that seemed absurd at first glance. AIDA was a beautiful place to try new things and not feel judged, because everyone around you was doing the same. Never had I been surrounded with so many people who were equally passionate about music and drama, and being able to share this experience with them was amazing. I still remember the first time I walked into the AIDA rehearsal. The jumble of nerves and excitement that was bundled in my stomach wasn’t unlike the feeling I had before performing nights.

One of the most beautiful moments for me in this entire musical, was when we first rehearsed with the band. The hairs stood up on my arms when we sang our first song all the way through till the last song. The chorus of beautiful harmonies interlocking with the tremendous band left me smiling like a dork for two and a half hours straight. It made me realize my love for music, and the joy I get with being around people who are the same.

Another thing I will take away from this experience will be the incredible community that forms backstage and between the cast. I was part of the handmaidens ensemble. We were 12 girls, and I was the only grade nine amongst us. It was a majority of grade 11’s and 12’s, and was slightly daunting as everyone were great singers. However, as the weeks went by, I grew more and more familiar with the people around me, bonding over the dance break for strongest suit which seemed ridiculously hard at the time. It ended with me asking them to do my makeup, and dancing silently backstage with them. I learned to take risks with people, to start conversations with people who you normally wouldn’t with. In addition, the connection with the whole cast as well was great. I remember there were these three grade 10’s hugging backstage, and they caught my eye on the third night of performance. The girl just extended her arm, inviting me to join, and it was in that moment where I truly understood that we truly were one big family.

Although AIDA was multiple hours of singing, hardwork, stress, and not eating (at times), I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. I cannot thank Ms.Bye and Ms.Stirrat enough for what they have given me, and I can’t wait for the next musical!