By: Annie Daly | Staff Writer
Production for “The SpongeBob Musical” is underway! In less than a month, theatre students will dust off their tap shoes and run to the Casino Theatre to deliver an unforgettable performance. The principal characters, ensemble members, directing staff, and backstage crew have been hard at work on this show since the first week of classes, and are excited to present an onstage adaptation of the lovable cartoon series.
“The SpongeBob Musical,” written by Kyle Jarrow and conceived by Tina Landau, depicts the perpetually positive cartoon character, SpongeBob, as he navigates how to protect Bikini Bottom from a volcano in less than 48 hours. This musical explores themes of friendship, optimism, and community as seen in songs like “Bikini Bottom Day” and “Best Day Ever.”
But the design of Salve Theatre’s “The SpongeBob Musical” is unique to other productions. Director Matt Ban took inspiration from his own children to create a framework for this show. Ban says, “[this idea] was born out of watching my twin 5 year old daughters playing on a playground. It was the week after taking them to see ‘The Lion King’ in Providence. They were acting out the show on these pieces of playground equipment. I just thought, isn’t it funny how you can take a little kid to a playground and they can create this whole world that doesn’t exist. How interesting that would be with a piece of theatre like this.” And indeed the cast has been taking this to heart, bringing their inner child with them onstage.
Molly Poppenga, sophomore, portrays the title role with an infinite amount of youthful energy. She plays SpongeBob as an innocently hopeful sponge with a desire to save this town he loves. But it may come as a shock to the audience that she didn’t initially audition for the role. “I had no idea I would even be in the cards for SpongeBob,” she admitted. “I had to learn the [audition materials] last minute during the call-backs. But now, I’m learning so much about the role and am looking forward to opening night!” SpongeBob’s heartwarming optimism will be appreciated by audiences as the November chill sets in.
While this musical is upbeat, it also mirrors real life social issues, as seen by how the Bikini Bottom residents are quick to choose a “scape-squirrel” in a time of panic. Sandy Cheeks, played by sophomore Bo Jagger, faces discrimination as the townsfish rally against her, calling her an outsider due to being a “land mammal.” But they overlook the fact that her difference is an asset, as she is able to use her knowledge of science to save the day. When asked what they admire most about their character, Bo responded, “she’s hyperfocused on education and specifically science. I can see myself in [her] so much.” Bo skillfully plays their character as realistic: Sandy encourages SpongeBob’s positive attitude, but also understands it will be difficult to convince Bikini Bottom residents to trust her ability in science to save them all.
Both onstage and offstage, students are learning a lot about the process of putting on a show at a professional level through this musical. Senior Abby Harris has been given the role of assistant stage manager in this show, something she didn’t initially anticipate as a psychology major. When asked her favorite aspect of the theatre department, she responded, “I like that there are a lot of opportunities to learn and try new things. Coming here, I was only ever a performer and since [joining Salve’s theatre program] I’ve done props crew, performing, and stage management. I didn’t know much about what a stage manager did before this [production]. [Being a stage manager] involves communicating with the cast and the production team. We’re going to do a lot with tech during the actual productions. It’s been really interesting to learn!”
So why should you see “The SpongeBob Musical?”
“It’s an exciting show! There’s a lot of fun dancing and singing.”- McKenna Brockett, Freshman, Dance Captain
“Although it is a children’s show, it spreads a very heartwarming message! It’s also very inspirational.”- Molly Poppenga
“I think it’s a very unique production of the show with a lot to offer! I don’t think you’re going to see this anywhere else. Every rehearsal where I see the vision unfold, I am sold on it more and more.”- Daniel Currier, Junior, Patrick Starr
“It’s so much fun! I love what we’re doing with it, making it all centered around children’s theatre. It’s not only accessible for children, but also the characters themselves are children. It’s really great to see how the show lends itself to that. Also it’s very creative!”- Abby Harris
“It’s not going to be your typical theatre experience. You’re not just going to come in, sit down, and watch a show. You’re very much part of this experience, which is a lot of fun!”- Matt Ban
Tickets are currently on sale under performances on the Salve Theatre Department website! Support your peers involved in this production and keep a look out for more information about upcoming shows. Remember, you don’t need to minor in theatre to be involved! Please see Dr. Tara Brooke Watkins if you are interested in joining Salve Theatre.
“The SpongeBob Musical” will take place at the Casino Theatre: November 5th & 6th at 7 PM, November 7th at 10 AM and 3 PM, and November 8th at 2 PM. Tickets are FREE with an ID for all Salve students and $20 for staff and faculty. More information can be found at: salve.edu/academics/academic-departments/department-music-theatre-and-dance/performances
Photos provided by salvetheatre on Instagram
