Jason Thinger loves production
Senior Jason Thinger is currently working at Montclair High School in the high school’s theater department, also known as SVPA. Thinger, who has been involved in SVPA as a stage manager since freshman year, is directing his own production of the Broadway hit Hair. The proceeds of the musical will benefit SVPA by going towards the Pat Woodward Scholarship Fund and future SVPA productions.
“I was already involved in SVPA, so I just asked my advisor if it would be possible to continue my involvement by working on another show as my senior option,” explained Thinger.
Directing a musical is quite a lot of work, and a lot of Jason Thinger’s time is spent working on the show. “I’m at rehearsal three hours a day for five days a week,” said Thinger. “However, I think I probably do spend an extra three hours a day preparing for rehearsal and getting the rest of the show organized.”
“Everyday we have rehearsal from three to six,” continued Thinger. “During rehearsal, we start with learning music to each of the songs. Once the cast has learned the vocals to each song, we move onto staging and choreographing it. However, during rehearsal, I also work on building the set, getting costumes together or working with the light crew. When I’m not at rehearsal, I’m making sure every other part of the production is taken care of. I’ve been designing the set and the lights and making sure we have everything and anything we need to put on the best show possible.”
It’s quite a lot of work, but Jason Thinger is no stranger to such. Thinger is an extremely dedicated member of SVPA, recently winning the Pat Woodward Scholarship and being one of the seniors awarded the prestigious MHS Owl Pin for his service and dedication to the program.
Jason Thinger truly enjoys what he’s doing. “It’s given me a chance to see what it’s like to be a director,” Thinger said. “Of course it does have its highs and its low, but overall it has just been an enjoyable experience. I’ve learned so much. I’ve gotten to do things, like lights and set design, that I never really had much experience in before.”
Jason Thinger believes that all the hard work and dedication a production requires is well worth the end result. “It’s worth it because in the end it’s just so rewarding to see everyone come together and make a really great production,” Thinger explained.
This senior option was great for Jason Thinger considering it’s not only his passion, but he’s planning on pursuing a career in theater production. He’s going to New York University next year to study Theater Design and Production at the Tisch School.
Jason Thinger and SVPA’s handwork can be seen Friday, June 14, at the Little Theater in the MHS freshman annex at 141 Park Street. Tickets are $10 for students and $15 for adults. They can be ordered online or bought at the box office one hour before the performance.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login