The stage of the “My Favorite Things” swing show was alive with more than just music on March 20; it was a celebration of legacy and new beginnings. Following a March 19 opening night that battled the traditional “first show jitters”, the following performance proved that the Bulldogs found their rhythm, delivering a show that quite literally swung the audience off their feet.
A Swing Show was a massive undertaking, featuring over 30 pieces ranging from full-cast medleys to intimate, emotionally charged solos. While many performers were stepping into the spotlight for the very first time, the polished nature of the show belied their inexperience.
The full cast set the tone immediately with an enthusiastic rendition of “Shut Up and Dance with Me.” Students hit their marks with precision, executed snappy spins, dips, and twirls, and earned a rousing ovation before the first note of the second song even began. Master of Ceremonies Emily James kept the momentum high, punctuating the transitions with witty introductions that kept the crowd engaged between the diverse sets.
Throughout the first half of the show, themes of love and heartbreak were explored with musical numbers leaning into the emotional range of the cast. John David Bublitz delivered a stirring, courageous version of “Hallelujah,” showing off a soulful growl and vocal strength that tugged at the heartstrings. Lily Ewert and Jeffrey Simonson tackled the “awful truths” of young heartbreak, while Kwynn Krause delivered a phenomenal performance on unconditional love, elevated by the haunting addition of a live harmonica.
A Queen medley shifted the energy back into high gear as the senior boys, led by Daulton Bauer, spread an infectious joy around the crowd with enthusiastic performances of “We Will Rock You”, “Another One Bites the Dust” and “We Are the Champions.”. While the group admitted they might not have been the greatest musically, it was clear the Bulldog Boys were having the time of their lives.
In a clever recurring segment titled “Dumb Jokes/Profound Thoughts,” the cast kept the audience laughing with classic puns—ranging from “brie” debris at a cheese factory to why melons get married (“because they can’t elope”).
The sophomore ladies proved to be a vocal force to be reckoned with during “Free Ride,” showcasing exceptional three-part harmony. Later, Ewert returned to the stage as a southern belle in red boots and denim, delivering a confident, wide-ranging performance of “Broken Road.” Exceptional talent continued to shine with Claire Miller, whose show-stopping performance of “Since U Been Gone” was one of the key highlights of the Swing Show. Her ability to nail high notes had the audience in the palm of her hand.
Following a brief intermission, the second half of the show opened with a poignant tribute to the program’s 13 seniors. Against a backdrop of photos documenting their years together, the group reflected on the bonds they’ve formed. Katie Olson and Krause then led the seniors in a tear-filled rendition of “Hallelujah”.
Other highlights included a stunning duet of “Creep” featuring a dynamic blend by Kasuo Waguk and Christian Ramos, Ellie Morsching and Lily Quast relied on an Dixie Chick hit “Goodbye Earl” that starred Rolfson—playing Earl—being dragged off stage by the song’s end, Olson closed the individual performances with a beautiful tribute to her father with “Butterfly.” The show concluded with a self-choreographed “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll” medley, featuring air guitars and enough energy to power the entire school.
Despite the minor scheduling hiccups and practice hurdles mentioned by Director Becky Borneke, the night was a triumph. “Tonight was very redeeming for us and the kids,” Becky said. “I’m super pleased and proud of how these actors came together.”
For many, this show was the final item to check off their high school bucket list. Miller described it as a “phenomenal experience” she wouldn’t trade for the world. Travyn Shoultz, an 11-year theater veteran, noted the “empowering feeling” of having younger students look up to the seniors as leaders. Ewert added that the program helped her break out of her shell: “We’re like one big family, always smiling even through the hard times.”
As the Bulldogs took their final bows, it was clear that while 13 seniors are leaving, the future of the theater department—bolstered by a surge in participation from dedicated and talented young performers—in very capable paws.
