Preview: Avonworth High School rehearses 'Phantom of the Opera'

PITTSBURGH — Avonworth High School is performing “Phantom of the Opera” this year.

Senior Emma Baker, who is Christine Daaé, is happy with the musical choice.

“I am incredibly happy because this is my dream role and I can still hardly believe I get the chance to do this in my senior year,” said Baker.

Senior Nathan Pool is playing The Phantom and said the role is quite challenging.

“The Phantom is such a complex character. I think it will be hard to combine creepiness with the more humane aspects of the character. It will also be difficult to conserve my voice to sing all of the notes effectively night after night,” said Pool.

Pool and Baker said their peers have challenging roles, too, and have been working hard.

“Everyone is so close to each other and very friendly. I couldn’t ask to work with a more supportive cast,” said Pool.

“We all share a similar sense of crazy humor and everyone is so supportive and wonderful,” said Baker.

Director Deborah Frauenhollz has been directing at Avonworth for more than 15 years and said this year’s cast works well together.

“They love working together and have an overwhelmingly positive spirit. Each time they are together, they just effervesce,” said Frauenhollz.

Baker said she started doing performing arts activities in 7^th grade and has loved the experience.

“They are the most fulfilling and rewarding experience any high school student could ask for,” said Baker.

Avonworth’s production of “Phantom of the Opera” runs April 12, 13, 19 and 20.

WPXI