The Hartland Drama Club Troupe #4213 presents Meredith Willson’s “The Music Man” April 26-28 and May 2, 4 and 5. From now until opening night, we will be introducing you to members of the production. Today, we meet Jaclyn Ellis, who plays Mrs. Paroo, a sweet, cheerful homemaker who wants the best for everyone.
Hartland High School student Jaclyn Ellis may not have thought her junior year would involve acquiring an Irish accent and learning how to crochet — but she has accomplished both for her role as Mrs. Paroo in the Drama Club’s production of “The Music Man.”
Ellis, the daughter of Karen and John Ellis and sibling to brother Rhys, says she finds similarities between herself and her character. “Mrs. Paroo is a very caring woman,” she said. “She always wants what’s best for her two children and her community. I don’t find myself all that different from her.”
Also a member of HHS’s Con Espiritu and Chamber Choirs, Ellis says Drama Club has introduced her to some of her best friends, who have provided love and support during her high school years. In challenging times, she recalls a quote from “Les Misérables,” which says, “Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise.”
Ellis says she tackles any stage fright that may occur through careful preparation. “The best way I handle nerves is by making sure I know all my scenes 100 percent, so I have nothing to worry about,” she said.
An enthusiastic fan of the contemporary musical “Next to Normal,” Ellis also appreciates musicals from the Golden Age of Broadway — including “The Music Man” — and hopes audiences of Hartland’s production will, too.
“I hope audiences leave this show with a greater appreciation of musical theater and Golden Age musicals,” she said.
The Hartland Drama Club Troupe #4213 is presenting Meredith Willson’s “The Music Man” at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 26 and 27; at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, April 28; 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 2, and Saturday, May 4; and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, May 5. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $13 for seniors and students, and available for purchase at www.hartlanddramaclub.weebly.com. For every ticket sold for the Thursday, May 2, performance, $1 will be donated to the Humane Society of Livingston County. All performances will be held at Hartland High School, 10635 Dunham Road, Hartland.
