Fall play senior Spotlight: Reagan Petro

By Grace Azaula, 2020

Published 11/02/19

Cheshire High School senior Reagan Petro is one of the stage managers for this year's fall production Antigone in Munich. She has been involved in tech for the past 4 years, acting as an assistant stage manager 1 year and being a stage manager for the past two years. Following graduation, Petro hopes to continue pursuing her passion for technical theater and build a career within the field.

How did you get involved with theater? I was introduced to theater through Kinky Boots and my interest grew from there. I was in a production of Seussical in the 6th grade (my first and final performance). And because of my friend Liam McManus, I decided to do tech in the 7th grade, which opened me up to a whole new world within theater.

What is the best part about being a stage manager? I love theater, so getting to see shows over and over again is definitely a perk of being behind the scenes. As well as getting to design sets, create props, and hang out with friends.

What is the most difficult part about being a stage manager? The most difficult thing about being a stage manager is learning how to be confident in yourself. It’s always been something I’ve struggled with, and when it comes to being in charge of your peers, it becomes really important. However, over the past 4 years of theater I’ve definitely improved and learned how to be a more confident person.

What is your favorite show? My favorite show that we’ve done is definitely Merrily We Roll Along, just because of the amazing cast and crew I got to work with. However, my favorite show of all time has to be Kinky Boots, because the music is absolutely incredible.

What is your favorite snack when you are stressed? Ms. Chorney brings pretzels to rehearsal every day, and I think I have single handedly eaten at least 3 Costco containers worth.

What advice would you give to aspiring stage managers? Stage managing is not easy. It takes a lot of patience, and confidence, and dedication. But if you truly have a passion for theater, put yourself out there and don’t give up when things seem to be difficult.

Why should people come see Antigone in Munich? People should come see this show in particular because I truly think it is the most thoughtful piece we’ve put together in my 4 years. Not only is the story moving, but I think the cast really has a way of making the story come to life in a way that I haven’t seen before on the CHS stage.