Baldwin High School’s performing arts program recently delivered one of the most highly praised musical performances in the school’s history with its production of “Footloose.”
Adapted from the 1984 film, the stage version featured dance, emotion and a distinct ’80s style. “This year’s production perfectly exemplified how our music and theater programs serve as educational tools for students,” the high school’s fine and performing arts director, André H. Poprilo, said in a release from the district. “As an education administrator, witnessing students excel within the framework provided by our talented teachers brings immense joy.”
Two members of the cast, junior Aaron Martin III, who played Willard Hewitt, and senior Mia Smith, who played Vi Moore, have been nominated for the highly prestigious Roger Rees Awards, for their outstanding performance in this production.
Baldwin High School Orchestra director Stephanie Muir conducted the pit orchestra, which comprised student musicians and community professionals. The student-run stage crew, directed by senior, Caitlyn Dennis, managed sets, lighting and costumes.
Stage Director Tricia Wilder, a Kindergarten teacher at Plaza Elementary School reflected on the students’ camaraderie and her delight in directing them. “The highlight of my day was walking into the high school and spending time with this cast,” she said in the release. They are not only incredibly talented actors, singers, and dancers, but they are remarkable human beings. I may get to sprinkle a little fairy dust as the director, but they are the true heart and soul of this production. Watching them lift one another up, support each other, and celebrate each other’s successes is what makes this ‘Footloose’ cast so special. I am incredibly lucky to work with such amazing kids.”
The students’ musical talent and dedication impressed Christine Benedetti, who served as vocal director for a high school musical for the first time. She praised the district’s expanding theater community. “It’s rare to find young performers who not only bring such passion to their craft, but also have the skills and discipline to bring their creative visions to life,” she said. “Paired with a directing team that works tirelessly and leads with genuine care — always putting students as people first — we have something incredibly special here in Baldwin.”
The musical collaboration extended to the high school’s Stage Crafts & Entertainment Technology class, which designed the set under the guidance of teacher Vinny Leis. “The students constructed two 12-step staircases and three two-story wagons,” Leis explained in the release sent to the Herald, “gaining essential production skills.”
The 2025 fall musical will go down in Baldwin history as one of the more memorable performances to be staged at Baldwin High School.
