Fox Chapel Area set to stream 'Songs for a New World,' vignettes about overcoming adversity

In what seems a fitting theme for a pandemic year, a cabaret filled with vignettes about survival will replace the traditional spring musical at Fox Chapel Area High School.

Students will stream “Songs for a New World,” comprising pre-recorded short pieces about struggles and success, during four shows April 15-18. Presentations are 7 p.m. April 15-17 and 2 p.m. April 18 and can be viewed on any device.

Tickets cost $15 per person or $25 per family and can be purchased at showtix4u.com/events/fcahsmusical.

Musical Producer Ben Murray said the show is about new beginnings, overcoming adversity and the recognition that despite challenges, “our lives are more fulfilled when we are together.”

Composed by musical theater lyricist Jason Robert Brown, “Songs for a New World” is a collection of songs that takes the audience on a journey through individual stories.

With no overarching plot and no main character, each song tells the story of coping with the moments in life that seem perfect and then in a flash can change completely.

Murray said at the core of each story is the theme of survival, even when it feels like all odds are stacked against you.

“’Songs for a New World’ has been such a bright light during these abnormal times,” junior stage manager Anna Szymanski said.

“Seeing how far the cast, crew and pit have come despite having so many new obstacles thrown at them this year has been so inspiring and incredible.”

Structured as a cabaret, the set never changes and the orchestra performs on stage behind the singers, making the show feel intimate and personal, Murray said.

“Everyone can connect with at least one character in the show, as they sing of these life-defining moments,” he said.

More than 50 high schoolers are participating in this year’s musical, either on stage or behind the scenes through painting, lighting, sound, costuming, ticket and ad sales, designing the program and advertising.

The cast and pit orchestra began rehearsing in mid-January and finished recording in late-March.

Planning a virtual show during the pandemic was not without obstacles.

Rehearsals were limited and students wore masks at all times. But Murray said he is proud of the students’ creativity and flexibility, and that the challenges brought about some unique opportunities.

“We collaborated with the high school video productions class who recorded the entire production,” he said.

Szymanski admitted the production is “definitely different” than previous years.

“But it is no less amazing,” she said. “I can’t wait for everyone to see this fantastic show.”