Just before the curtains descended and the spotlight dimmed, NASH seniors took their final bow on the stage they have cherished since middle school. This past weekend, the spring musical The Children of Eden marked the last performance for cast members of the Class of 2025.
This year’s production holds special significance for seniors who have devoted years to the theater program. For many, it represented a culmination of challenging rehearsals, years spent honing their skills, and countless friendships they have formed.
“I will miss the people,” stated senior Emily Quinlin, who played Snake. “The NA musical brings people together, and the entire cast has truly become a real family. I have made so many friendships that I know I will never forget.”
Many of these seniors have had a passion for theater long before entering high school. Ensemble member Norah Kennedy shared how the transition from then to now has been rewarding.
“My first musical, I was 12, and now I am 18, so I would say I have gained confidence,” Kennedy said. “The level of fear I had going on stage back then, compared to now, was much more intense.”
Kennedy noted that the friendships forged during her years with the musical have significantly shaped her high school experience.
“I met one of my best friends through the musicals,” stated Kennedy. “The relationships that have formed from being with these people every day for two months is my favorite aspect.”
As the final show concluded on Sunday, seniors looked back on the time they had spent and the progress they had made.
Charlie Palmer, a senior who has participated in 15 NA productions, including student directing and stage crew, reflected on his time with the theater community.
“This was fun while it lasted,” stated Palmer. “I firmly believe that things only have meaning because they are temporary. While I am devastated that it is over, I’m certain I will only look back fondly on these memories.”
Aside from the memorable performances, the NA musical cast is filled with traditions that seniors will forever adore. One long-lasting tradition, passed down for years, occurs after the final performance. The entire cast sits in a big circle, and the seniors give speeches, offer advice, and say goodbyes to the cast.
“I will never forget the impact this made on me during my freshman year,” said Quinlin. “Those seniors seriously inspired me, and I am so grateful that I will hopefully be able to do the same this year.”
For many of these seniors, their favorite memories revolve around the laughter shared with their castmates, the relationships formed, and the rush of adrenaline felt on opening night. From inside jokes to standing ovations from the crowd, seniors will always remember the impact North Allegheny musicals have had on their lives.
“Since I’ve been in every possible NA musical production, ending my final show was bittersweet. I’ve met so many people, and they’ve all changed my life,” expressed Anna Fiffik, a soloist and member of the musical program for six consecutive years. “I’d do it all again.”
