Shadowbox Students Participate In Boot Camp For METRO ROCKS THE BOX 5/3

With just one week until their combined event, Shadowbox and Metro Early College High School are in the thick of rehearsals for Metro Rocks the Box, a one-night-only sketch comedy and rock ‘n' roll show that features the students performing alongside Shadowbox professionals on the Shadowbox stage at the Easton Town Center.

Shadowbox directors took a more "boot camp" approach to this year's event, building on the success of their 2009 inaugural show. After an initiAl Blocking rehearsal with the student cast, specific expectations were given for each individual along with the challenges of memorizing scripts, songs, and dances in preparation for the May 3rd show.

While the majority of rehearsals are taking place at Metro, the musicians and technical rehearsals are happening at Shadowbox. Guitar, flute, and keyboard players are working with BillWho? band leaders Matthew and Jennifer Hahn, and this year's backstage and technical crews are working with Shadowbox Technical Director Brian Rau and Production Manager Tom Cardinal. "The only way to rehearse the students in these areas is to get their hands on the equipment," explained Rau.

To that end, a small group of students attended Shadowbox's afternoon show, the Lunchbox, Friday, April 23rd to gain practical experience moving set pieces and running lights and sound.

"So far the ‘boot camp' approach is really paying off," commented Stacie Boord, Shadowbox's Community Relations Director. "Having clear expectations and using homework as an element to their preparation has resulted in more intensive and efficient rehearsals. I've also kept the parents informed every step of the way so we're steering the students through the process as a united front."

The dedication of the Metro students and Shadowbox directors will culminate into a one-of-a-kind show on Monday, May 3rd. Showtime is 7:00 PM (doors open at 5:45). VIP tables for 8 are $500 / 4 for $250 and general admission tickets are $25. Ten percent of the ticket sales benefit Metro Early College High School. For more information contact the Shadowbox box office at 614-416-7625 or go online to www.shadowboxcabaret.com.