Long Overdue: A Celebration of the Performing Arts
All photos provided by Suneja.
Emma Suneja
The Hamilton Performing Arts have had a difficult year with a lot of turmoil surrounding the upcoming changes, so it is important to celebrate the positives that came out of this year. The Hamilton Performing Arts are very successful in their own respects and have done so much this year to be celebrated for.
Hamilton Drama Society
The Hamilton Drama Society is run by a student board: President, Megan Draheim, Vice President Emma Suneja, Secretary Jenna Korban, and Social Media Director Lauren Steighner. This group puts on 4 productions every year which includes 2 plays, 1 musical, and 1 one act. The one act is a competitive show and the musical is submitted to the Wisconsin Jerry Awards. This program is very successful, consistently winning awards for both competitive productions. Under the direction of Sarah Plamann, this group allows students to be involved in all aspects of theater, not just acting. Anyone is welcome to audition for shows or participate on the crew side and the group always loves to see new members.
The Hamilton Drama Society had six students: Jack Nagai, Tyler Vergin, Emma Suneja, Lauren Steighner, Megan Draheim, and Lilly Peterson, attend the International Thespian Festival, ITF, this past summer. The students competed in the Disney Backstage Challenge which was a new competition where students were able to compete in tasks that happen backstage throughout a performance. The kids walked away with a win in the Prop Shift competition and had so much fun. They also had 2 students, Lilly Peterson and Emma Suneja, win Superior Awards for their solo singing and acting. This upcoming summer the group has combined with Wauwatosa West and East theater programs to perform at ITF. This is an amazing opportunity that is only awarded to a handful of schools across the nation. Congrats to all!
The Hamilton Drama Society has had a fantastic year with so many successful shows. This fall, we saw Little Women in November and our One Act Dreamwalk. The Hamilton One Act was the sixth One Act to make it to State in a row! Three of the actors, Jenna Korban, Lauren Steighner, and Emma Suneja, walked away with Outstanding Actor Awards as well as the whole group obtaining an Outstanding Tech, Outstanding Ensemble, and All-State Award. This is always a tough process, but this group perseveres through the hard times. Portraying characters going through such a heartbreaking experience such as childhood cancer was difficult, but this group worked hard to honor patients and their families. Director Ms. Plamann made sure to emphasize the fact that their goal was to tell a story, not to win awards.
This year, the winter show was Clue! The students brought to life all of the classic Clue characters: Mr. Green, Colonel Mustard, Professor Plum, Mrs. Peacock, Ms. Scarlet, and Mrs. White (Andrew Steele, Josiah Bender, Fajr Said, Sydney Nicholas, Jenna Korban, and Emma Suneja, respectively). This show was very technically heavy, requiring many moving set pieces and props, and an amazing watch. The actors put in so much effort to bring their characters to life and maintain a lot of energy throughout the entire show.
The spring musical is Once Upon A Mattress, a rendition of “The Princess and the Pea.” This is a ridiculous musical that features an evil queen, dauntless prince, and mute king who are wrangling a swamp princess named Fred. The musical is full of whole ensemble dance numbers and impressive vocals that make the performance engaging the entire time. When asked to describe the rehearsal process, Assistant Director Logan Wrobleski said, “I’ve loved getting to craft a comedy with such a naturally funny cast who is always able to adjust and adapt to where we want the comedy to go. I’ve been inspired by the willingness and the fearless nature of our actors and actresses in trying new things and going beyond the page.” This musical is a joy to watch and will leave your face hurting from laughter. When the queen puts this princess to the test, will she be able to prove her royal blood? Even though she comes from the swamps? Come see Once Upon A Mattress the first week of May to find out!
“I love drama because it provides a safe place for all people involved and it allows them to grow a love for acting and engulf themselves in an art form that is often not as appreciated. It also provides a safe place for people to express themselves. This year, the underclassmen have really shown through and made a space for themselves in the community. As a drama member for 3 years, I haven’t seen a year where all of the classes felt so close. There really wasn’t a divide this year. Our One Act was a special one because it dealt with a matter that has touched the lives of everyone we know, however this experience brought the cast together and created a great educational environment and creative outlet. I am so proud of my cast.” Lauren Steighner, junior
“I have been a part of Hamilton Drama since I was a freshman and it's always been one of my favorite places. This year, we have had so many new people join and it's been wonderful to watch people experience theater for the first time. Everyone is so nice and, this year especially, I’ve had some of the most fun. In the past few years we have had multiple people qualify for nationals in Thespys, and this year we have the privilege of performing at the opening ceremony.” Lilly Peterson, senior
“Joining the drama program has been such a rewarding thing for me to make. Being on both cast and crew already, I’ve gotten to meet and become friends with so many people I would’ve never got the chance to know, and become much closer with others I already knew. The environment is just always so overwhelmingly positive, and it's amazing to work with so many kind and talented people.” Tiffani Morris, freshman
“I initially didn’t know if joining the musical would be fun, but after meeting the people I realized we make it a fun experience. They are very welcoming people.” Ezra Mitchell, senior
“Joining my first show through drama has been unforgettable. Everyone has been welcoming and it’s great to meet new people and try something different. I typically involve myself in STEM activities and clubs, so everything here was new to me, but I was surprised with how much fun it is! Everyone is helpful and understanding, making it a great learning environment too. It’s nice to get a feel of another world within the school, and make more connections. I’ve known a handful of people in drama indirectly through my sisters, or having had Ms. Plamann as a teacher through elementary school; It feels good to work with everyone more while in the process of making a great show. I’ve seen struggles when learning vocals and/or choreography, but we always go through the difficult parts to make sure everyone understands how to do it right. I personally have room for improving my dancing in “Shy,” but I believe I can get there. Sometimes I think I should have joined sooner, but I’m excited to finish this show, and have a good time doing so.” Zion Mitchell, senior
The Hamilton Band Program
The Hamilton Band Program consists of the Charger Marching Band, two jazz bands, and two concert bands. These curriculum-based bands are composed of over 90 total participants. Each band has 3 concerts throughout the year, as well as Marching Band performing at multiple competitions and football games.
The Charger Marching Band was led in their 2024 season by Drum Majors Evan Rosenau and Aaralyn Rowe, Guard Captain Disha Deepak, Caption Heads Davi Fachini, Elijah Karnthaler, and Josiah Bender, and Section Leaders Allie Kabara, Grace Xue, Charlie Anderson, Zoe Boschek, Ian Bieri, Scotty Wenzel, Elena Wright, Owen Walker, Megan Draheim, Divya Senthil, Quinn Fritz, Aanya Ranasaria, Nika Stacey, and Cole Braman. The Drum Majors are responsible for generally leading the group as well as conducting the band throughout their performance. Guard Captain is responsible for representing the band along with the Drum Majors at competitions, as well as serving as both the guard section leader and caption head. Caption Heads generally help new students with proper marching formation, and help the section leaders. Section leaders are specific to their instrument section, composed of students playing the same or similar instruments. They organize practices, help new band members, and have a good understanding of the music in order to help the other band members in their section.
This group had an amazing season with their show, The Enemy Within. This show consisted of three songs: “Enemy” by Imagine Dragons, “Lose you to Love me” by Selena Gomez, and “This is Me” from the hit musical The Greatest Showman. As Drum Major Evan Rosenau puts it, “Our Show…was focused on bringing light to a process I believe we all go through: the process of overcoming our inner demons. At the beginning of the show, before the music starts, whispers can be heard, saying, ‘you’re ugly’ and other deprecating things. However, by the end of the show, we end with a triumphant, strong, and full sound, illustrating the confidence that we all gain as we overcome our fear and doubt. We hope this show inspired some of our audience and made them feel even more seen.” This is an amazing message conveyed by an even better performance.
This band had an amazing marching season, winning multiple awards at various competitions including a First Division award at State, a First Place award in the AAAA division at Milton High School’s Red Hawk Invitational, a Best Overall Visual Performance award, and a Best Overall Color Guard award, also at Milton. On top of all of these amazing awards, the group was invited to Rome over winter break to perform in the Rome New Year’s Day Parade, an honor for the program. As senior and Section Leader Megan Draheim says, “performing in Rome was surreal. To have such an engaged and supportive group for bands across the world really hit home how important music is through different cultures and how it connects us all.”
These incredible students can also be seen all around the community bringing joy to us through music. For example, their Brass Quintet played at the Sussex Tree Lighting Ceremony and HEF Gala this year. The students put in a lot of work at pep rallies, football games, leading students headed off to state during the March of Champions several times a year, and numerous events in the community.
Many students also represent Hamilton in bands elsewhere. Some perform with the University of Milwaukee’s Youth Wind Ensemble & Percussion Program, UWAY. This group has four concerts throughout the year and meets weekly. Here, students can work with professionals to grow their skills. Along with UWAY, there is also UJAY, an acronym for the UWM Youth Jazz Ensemble. Many students at Hamilton participate in these other bands to take their performance to the next level and show off the amazing work our band program does. A testament to this work, the Hamilton Band also sends many students to the WSMA State Honors Band, our state’s most prestigious high school level band.
Many students also made amazing individual achievements and qualified for State Solo and Ensemble! Congrats to Scotty Wenzel, Allie Kabara, Chinmayi Swaminathan, Elena Wright, Lucy Daniel, Mollie Westfahl, Logan Savataski, Chuck Morris, Grace Xue, Aaralyn Rowe, Jack McCord, Sania Desai, Evan Rosenau, and James Konkol.
“Marching band has made my time at Hamilton High School. Our band works hard every year to always put on a great show!” Elijah Karnthaler, junior
“I love how this team has given me the chance to learn and grow as a drummer, and I’m ecstatic to have the opportunity to perform at State Solo Ensemble in April.” Josiah Bender, junior
“I love how marching band gives students the opportunity to pursue their passion for music in a lot of ways. Students get a chance to learn and grow in a new type of performance, and it’s a super welcoming environment for every student.” Disha Deepak, junior
“Band is such a wonderful and inspirational part of my life!!” Jack McCord, sophomore
“Band has always been a great program. It gives a way to escape from classes and involve yourself in something that you enjoy. It is cool to see how much you and others around you can improve throughout the school year. The music is interesting and engaging and overall an amazing class experience.” Robert Cesario, sophomore
The Hamilton Choir Program
The Hamilton Choir Program is composed of four choirs: Hamiltones A Capella, Synergy Show Choir, Chamber Singers, and Charger Choir. They are currently all academic classes, however Hamiltones A Capella and Synergy Show Choir are audition groups. The choir program has multiple concerts throughout the year and they are very proud of the work they put into the program.
The Choirs are run by the Choir Board: Sam Butscher, Madison Wagner, Gabby Ziegler, Emma Suneja, and Choir President Jenna Korban. This board was voted upon by their peers and they are so thankful for this opportunity. Being on the board comes with the responsibility to meet with the Choir Boosters, run the social media accounts, and be leaders in their respective choirs.
Synergy Show Choir has had an amazing season despite losing their director, Maggie Condon, or MC. This group is led by Dance Captains Jenna Korban, Sienna Johnson, Reece Schrader, Emma Suneja, and Ara Shultz, and Section Leaders Gabby Ziegler, Lilly Peterson, Haley Meneses, Hailey Stubler, Lauryn Heine, and AJ Bois. Dance captains are responsible for cleaning choreography, leading warm ups, and answering choreography based questions during critiques at competitions. Section Leaders are responsible for knowing the music well before the rest of the group and teaching it to their section. The sections are broken up by voice parts: Soprano 1, Soprano 2 Sopranos, Soprano 2 Altos, Alto 1s, Alto 2s, and Baritones. This team walked away with multiple caption awards including 2 Spirit Awards, a Best Dressed Award, an Outstanding Crew Award, and a third place award at Sparta: Burst of Adrenaline. This group is so proud of everything they have accomplished this year and can’t wait to show it off at their final performance: Pop Show! As Director Alex Chanto puts it, “I am so incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication these students have displayed since the start of dance camp. From the singers and dancers to the combo and crew, they have all displayed what it means to be a Synergy member.”
The Hamiltones A Capella is also an audition group that meets every other day during school. This group is one of the most challenging choirs to be in, since they have to be very well connected with everyone else in the choir. All of the songs are sung a capella and the group works very hard to create a good vocal blend. The group performs all around the community, much like the band’s Jazz Quintet. The group carols throughout the winter season and can be found throughout the community spreading joy through song. This group is led by Mrs. Plamann and is always a joy to listen to!
This year, Hamilton hosted our District’s Solo and Ensemble. They had so much fun and extended their gratitude to the National Honor Society students who volunteered their time in order to help set up, take down, and monitor rooms throughout the day. They had multiple people qualify for State: The Hamiltones A Capella, Lilly Peterson, Gabby Ziegler, Attreya Atili, and Josiah Bender. Congrats, students!
The Hamilton School District’s choirs had an amazing time performing at Hamilton Sings. This is a day where all of the choirs from Hamilton High School, Templeton Middle School, and Silver Spring Intermediate School come together to sing a couple of songs and learn more about music. This year the students sang Siyahumba and Sing! The lyrics from Sing! really spoke to them as they related to what they were doing. The lyrics, “hear a thousand voices shouting love,” spoke volumes to what they were doing that day: uniting as one sound in their love for music.
All of the choirs perform at concerts throughout the year and they are so excited to come together for one last performance: Spring Sing! This show will feature performances from all of the choirs and they are so excited to show everyone what they have been working on. This performance will also include a banquet where they say goodbye to all of the choir seniors and announce caption awards. These awards include Best Bromance, Best Dressed, and Outstanding leadership awards. They are so excited to show off all they have worked on this year in their final concert.
“Choir has become an increasingly inclusive and familial space in the past couple of years. I have seen a lot of growth since I have joined and it is very encouraging to see the growth in our community.” Gia Quast, junior
“I am new to the district so of course I was very nervous coming into my freshman year and choir was one of the places that I have felt supported and welcomed in the most this year. It’s one of the classes that I look forward to each day because of the teachers and the students that surround me everyday. It has really made me enjoy singing and given me such a great passion for it as well.” Payton Grindle, freshman
“Synergy is my safe place. Synergy has always held a safe place for many, many people. As a freshman, it’s really scary to arrive in a new environment, wondering if you would actually fit in. Right away, Synergy members welcome everyone into Synergy, and you immediately feel safe and comfortable where you are, and certain you belong. That’s the power of this club, it is so welcoming and involving, making you feel like you belong. I’m so so proud of where Synergy is now. Yes, this year was tough, but we continued to show positivity no matter what. Another reason I love Synergy; Synergy always finds ways to support other teams, and people, even when we might not be in the best spot. Synergy takes the time to express their gratitude which is why we are known for achieving the Spirit Award. To continue, I am so excited to see where Synergy leads me for my senior year. It's so unbelievable to think I will be a senior next year, meaning it will be my last year in Synergy. I’m so excited to see the upcoming set, and to perform for one last year, but I am also so terrified to lose a home.” Sydney Nicholas, junior
“Choir has been such a welcoming community that has shaped me to be a better person overall.” Robbie Schmidt, freshman
“Since I came here last year as a junior, I was really tempted to not join because I was scared of being an outcast, but as soon as I came into choir my first day it was like I was deported from reality because nobody would talk to me in other classes but people who noticed I was new in choir came to talk to me. Underclassmen and upperclassmen were talking to me and telling me they were excited [I was] in choir. I was invited to sit with them during lunch which is where I sat all my junior year. I really came out of my bubble and enjoyed coming to school. I really became a leader; I was the alto leader in Chargers, I met so many great people. Then my senior year rolled around and I was so excited because I auditioned for A Capella and I got in, so I got to take two choirs. I am a leader in Chargers and I feel like I have overcome my fears of opening up to people and I felt how the seniors felt last year welcoming in the freshmen. To sum up, my experience with choir has been very life changing; I have become a better person for myself and to others, and I’m just a better person overall.” Lydia Chew, senior
