The Prom, the musical proves that joy lingers beyond that a dance

For many people, high school is filled with rites of passages. The musical, The Prom, the story of self-centered Broadway stars who hope to improve their image by helping a lesbian take her girlfriend to the school dance does more than just give everyone a piece of a sparkling tiara. While the message is woven into the melody, the sentiment plays on far after the last note is heard.

After a successful Broadway run, The Prom, the musical, has begun a national tour. At its second stop at the Doctor Phillips Center in Orlando, the cast is compromised of both veterans and newbies to the touring life. While the opening night performance engaged the audience, the performers seemed to be even more connected to the Orlando community.

Although Netflix transformed this musical into a movie, the stage version has far more energy and emotion than the screen can show. From the exuberant dance numbers to the quiet moments that give a glimpse of the uncertainty, the emotions ring true.

Without ever really taking a pause, the show takes the audience on moments where they laugh uncontrollably only to turn and pause on the hurt that decisions can make. Even if people are not necessarily singing along, they are tapping their feet, and quite possibly, thinking about how maybe their high school dance experience was a pivotal part of their journey.

Beyond the big dance numbers that fill the stage, musical fans might remember the quiet moments. While many people can relate to the desire to be accepted and loved in “Unruly Heart,” the musical fan relates to the “We Look To You.” The concept of running to the theater and seeking that “answer to a problem” that two acts can provide keeps people in their seats. Even when topics push people to question their own beliefs, it is managed in a way that doesn’t make them turn away. Instead, the message plays on again in the melody in the mind.

While the subject of The Prom never fades from the conversation, the performances from the touring company make the musical. From Courtney Balan’s big belt to Patrick Wetzel’s comedic timing, the audience learns to forget those personal shortcomings and cheer for the goodness in their heart.

Beyond the laughter, the connection between Kaden Kearney (Emma) and Kalyn West (Alyssa) captures those classic teenage moments. The juxtaposition of insecurity yet yearning to be public with their relationship is relatable. Those moments of vulnerability draw the audience in and make them remember their own first love experiences.

After the opening night performance of The Prom at Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando, several members of the cast participated in a “Chat Back.” The short question and answer session showed how personal the musical is to them. Beyond the struggles of returning to the stage during the current climate, the actors seem to appreciate them not only being on stage but also the impact that they are having on the audience.

While much was said about this musical and its impact on social norms, one word was said over and over. For the cast, joy was the sentiment of the night. While people may clap for the high-energy dance numbers or even shed a tear during the more thoughtful songs, the hope is that everyone leaves a performance with a little more joy in their hearts. Even though one night of theater might not solve all the world’s problems, it can add a little more sparkle in a world that is too black and white.

The National Tour of The Prom plays Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando now through December 12. It is one of the first stops on the tour. Additional dates, ticket information and more can be found online.

While The Prom started as two girls who just wanted to dance with each other, the musical might have more people looking to better appreciate how every night can belong to them.