By: Bella Aldridge
As Redwood showcases the annual Spring Musical, this year’s being ‘Bye Bye Birdie’, Raul Arrendondo ’23 acquires lead role as Conrad Birdie.
Photo courtesy of Gigantea
When first seeing himself casted as the lead role of Conrad Birdie, Arrendondo says it was “emotional”, as “it was amazing knowing that [he] got the role”. After recognizing his role in the musical, Arrendondo says that he, “would have to work harder.”
A spot in the musical comes along with a series of integral rehearsals.
These extensive yet fundamental rehearsals are “key to [him]” as he says there is, “no different experiences if you are ensemble or a lead.” Arrendondo says in correspondence that the, “[cast] all have the goal to make the best show [they] can.”
In efforts to prepare both physically and mentally to portray the role of Conrad Birdie, Arrendondo spent numerous hours studying film about Elvis Pressley, as Conrad Birdie is drawn from inspiration of Pressley.
Photo courtesy of Gigantea
Arrendondo says that while he, “wants to create the same feeling a person felt in the fifties when they say Elvis,” as he mirrors the “Elvis flare”, Arrendondo will maintain his own personality. Arrendondo says he is going to, “be [himself]. That’s what [he is] so happy about is being [himself].”
When looking to the musical premiere, Arrendondo looks to receive sincerity from those in the audience. “When the audience sees it, they will love it. That is all that is needed,” says Arrendondo.
I love the cast of Bye Bye Birdie. They are my family. And I’m thankful for them. Let’s kill it opening night.
Raul Arrendondo ’23
To purchase tickets for Bye Bye Birdie, click here for online sales. The LJ Williams theater will also be selling tickets in person on February 2nd, 3rd and 4th. The musical showings will be held on February 2nd and 3rd at 7:00pm, while February 4th will have showtimes at 2:00pm and 7:00pm.
Tags: arts and entertainment, Bye Bye Birdie, redwood gigantea, redwood high school, redwood journalism, RHS Musical