STORY AND PHOTO BY JONATHAN SINTORA, STAFF WRITER
For several months, Cypress College Theater Department students have been working nonstop to prepare for their upcoming performance of “The Prom.”
This Friday kicked off the first weekend of performances with shows on March 8, 9, and 10.
Carla Ongpauco met with the Cypress Chronicle to share how she prepares for her role as “Shelby.” With over 100 hours of rehearsal leading up to the musical, Ongpauco’s day is meticulously planned with attention to detail.
From the time she wakes up, Ongpauco pays close attention to her morning routine. Ongpauco shared “…I’m wearing costumes and getting my hair done by other people, so I wanna make sure I’m clean and be respectful… especially since everyone is sharing a dressing room.”
As the day continues, she emphasizes the importance of a balanced meal and staying hydrated. Both of which are important for keeping smooth vocals.
Around three hours before showtime, Ongoauco arrives on campus to begin her hair and makeup routine for the show. The first 30 minutes are dedicated solely to makeup and hair.
Once both are complete, Ongpauco starts preparing her costumes for her quick changes backstage. Along with costumes, she must sort through props to ensure her quick changes are performed smoothly. Soon after, she practices the delivery of her lines and rehearses the choreography.
She is ready to go once the curtains are drawn and the lights shine through.
Ongpauco’s character provided an interesting challenge, as she stepped into a character who is known as homophobic. Onpauco said, “…Yeah, this is who I am. It’s a little challenging. It has to come across as if I am homophobic.”
For Ongpauco, the authenticity of her performance is important in the development of her character Shelby. Ongpauco said, “I don’t try to make it as a joke… or else it wouldn’t have the character arc that [Shelby] needs for the rest of the show.”
After a weekend of performances, Onpauco expressed the feeling of relief after seeing hours of work come to fruition. Ongpauco said, “It feels relieving. It’s like a bittersweet feeling.” She continued, “The process, the long hours, it’s like letting go of something that was a part of you for so many hours… It feels really good.”
Ongpauco’s three performances last weekend wrapped up the first round of shows. The final three shows take place this weekend on March 16, 17, and 18 at the Cypress College Theater.
