Theatre offerings continue this fall at New World School of the Arts with Adam Gwon’s musical Ordinary Days, presented by the college students as a studio production. Directed by faculty member Matthew Buffalo, the musical is refreshingly humorous and inspiring. Written by one of musical theater’s most exciting new composers, Ordinary Days tells the story of four young New Yorkers whose lives intersect in unexpected ways as they search for success, love, happiness, and taxis.
“Even in a crowded, fast-paced world, our lives are deeply interconnected,” highlights Buffalo. “I hope that people can see themselves in these characters and that they realize how we do things day in and day out and we feel like it’s insignificant and that nothing goes on, but those moments sometimes lead to something great.”
In conversation with some of the cast members, during rehearsal for this double-cast production, Enoc Curbelo – an NWSA acting college senior playing Jason, reflects on the dual nature of rehearsal spaces as both a place for practice and learning, highlighting the importance of embracing mistakes, as fear can hinder growth and improvement. For him, finding moments of stillness amidst his energetic nature is crucial, and he finds that each opportunity to perform deepens his love for the craft.
In the role of Claire, musical theatre college sophomore Siena Mir notes the practical application of her vocal training and stamina in this project, which has pushed her to explore new skills. “This project has caused me to stretch and work on aspects of my craft that I have never explored before. It has also been an honor to be able to do this show alongside upperclassmen.”
Joshua Ogline, musical theatre college sophomore playing Warren, shares that the training at New World School of the Arts is deeply connected to the process, allowing acting and musical theatre students to apply what they’ve learned to different songs in the show. “By understanding my character, I’m able to work with it and then flesh it out and enhance it with my own creativity.”
Likewise, Daniella Diaz, musical theatre college senior also playing Claire, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a professional attitude in both rehearsal spaces and classrooms, as distractions can easily arise in either setting. As she approaches the end of her time at school, Daniella finds it exciting to apply all the skills and knowledge she’s gained to her final show.
Content Advisory: This production contains theatrical haze, flashing lights, and mature themes and adult language. Parental discretion is advised. Ages 12 and up.
Acting and musical theatre students at NWSA hone their craft through acting technique, movement, and speech classes, focusing on fundamentals of physical and emotional preparation. With performance at its core, training is based on the classical texts and the principles of drama as well as practical incursions into the contemporary and experimental edges of theatre. Consequently, alumni are found performing onstage nationally and internationally and their talent and vision are recognized and highly regarded in the industry. For information about the theatre program at New World School of the Arts please call 305-237-3541.
A Florida center of excellence in the visual and performing arts, New World School of the Arts is an educational partnership of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Miami Dade College, and University of Florida. NWSA provides a comprehensive program of artistic, creative, and academic development through a curriculum that reflects our community and the rich multicultural state of Florida. Through our partners NWSA confers the high school diploma, Associate of Arts degree, and Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Music college degrees in programs accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance, Music, Theatre and Art & Design. NWSA’s rigorous eight-year curriculum and conservatory-style teaching has empowered students in our community and our nation to become leaders in the arts for more than four decades.
Information about New World School of the Arts at 305-237-3135 or nwsa.mdc.edu.
ORDINARY DAYS
October 22, 23; 7:30 PM
October 24; 2 PM and 7:30 PM
New World School of the Arts
9th floor, Studio 5902, Miami
General admission $5. Limited seating