Hi-Liners Musical Theatre (HMT) will be streaming its latest online production of ‘Emma: A Pop Musical’ in exchange for donations from Feb. 12–15, 2021.
Viewers can donate any amount they wish to watch the show that weekend. Every dollar received will be used to help keep the 55-year old nonprofit organization from closing its stage doors for good until it’s safe to gather in person again.
2020 brought many hurdles as live performances and in-person gatherings are the backbone to the theatre’s success, but HMT pivoted and provided online classes and virtual plays so students could still have access to performing arts. But operating 10 percent of its usual revenue is something HMT can’t sustain for the rest of the year. To help keep their doors open until it’s safe to gather in person, HMT will be providing a series of fundraising events this year, starting with the streaming of the high school romantic comedy, Emma: A Pop Musical.
Emma is an online show like no other. Unlike most online shows where musical numbers kept performers in a Zoom-like box, the characters in Emma are seen interacting as if they were filmed in the same room, thanks to the magic of green screen.
“It’s a hybrid between film, music video and live theater,” explains Edwards, who had to get permission from Broadway Licensing to depart from the script’s original format. For example, in the HMT version, the play is told using a scrapbook where the storylines are played out in photos the character Emma collects during her senior year in high school.
“These kids have certainly been challenged. We would rehearse live via Zoom, but they would film on their own in front of their homemade green screens with lights borrowed from all over the house,” adds Edwards.
The show is comprised of a 14-member cast ages 12-16 from Seattle, Burien, Normandy Park, Auburn, Des Moines and SeaTac. The students who participated have certainly been challenged during filming.
How to watch
Go to www.hi-liners.org to request a “ticket” link which will be emailed to you prior to the performance dates. Donations of any amount are accepted. The stream will be available for unlimited viewing starting Friday, Feb. 12 at 12:01 a.m. through Monday, Feb. 15 until midnight.
About Emma: A Pop Musical
High school senior Emma is determined to find the perfect boyfriend for her shy sophomore friend Harriet by the end of the school year. Based on Jane Austen’s classic novel, this new musical features the hit songs of legendary and iconic singers like The Supremes, Sara Bareilles, Natasha Bedingfield, Katy Perry and more. This is the perfect fun show to ring in Valentine’s Day weekend!
About Hi-Liners Musical Theatre
Hi-Liners Musical Theatre (HMT) is a nonprofit organization established in 1966 that provides musical theatre productions and performing arts classes, workshops and camps for kids ages 3 and up in south King County communities.
More info at http://www.hi-liners.org.
