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 Scottie Bell who portrays Eulalie Mackecknie Shinn, the snooty wife of River City’s mayor who knows everyone in town and struts about like a peacock.
“Find out who you are and do it on purpose.”
These are the words spoken by Dolly Parton by which Hartland High School junior Scottie Bell lives her life. One of the places she’s found out who she is has been on the Hartland High School stage — including this spring as Eulalie Mackecknie Shinn in the Drama Club’s production of “The Music Man.”
“I have always loved Dolly and how she is unapologetically herself,” said Bell, “and this reminds me to always be true to who I am.”
For Bell, the daughter of Mary Jo and Randy Bell and sibling to sister Stephani, being true to herself means pursuing her passion for musical theater. Her years of involvement with Drama Club, choir and community theater have helped prepare her to portray the serial gossiper and snob Eulalie — an audience favorite.
“I’m used to being called a diva, so Eulalie is no exception,” Bell said jokingly. “I’d like to think I can sing better than her, but she definitely dresses much better than I do.”
Bell said her participation in Drama Club has enriched her high school years. “I have a place where I can go and do what I’m passionate about, and that has been so beneficial to my high school experience,” she said. “I’m very lucky to have such a strong club behind me.”
According to Bell, Hartland’s production of Drama Club will deliver to audiences “the classic Broadway experience they’re looking for.”
“I hope it can bring back some fond memories!” 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.
Photo by Shi Lessner Photography
