Annual musical fundraiser helps provide scholarships to local students and more
There’s a reason Director Rodney Neal has led musical productions for the Rotary Club of Hamilton three times now: He’s a believer in the mission of Rotary and has a strong passion for theater.
“I have been directing plays and musicals for 15 years and will continue to do so as long as life allows. I truly love the creative process and bringing a story to life. The Greater Cincinnati area has such an incredible arts community and there is truly an appreciation for the theater and all things creative. I love being part of that community,” Neal said.
He directed Rotary’s sold-out “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast” in 2018 and “Disney’s Mary Poppins” in 2019. Both musicals attracted huge audiences.
“Oliver!” has a different tone than the previous two shows. The British musical is based upon the novel “Oliver Twist” by Charles Dickens.
“It is a heartfelt tale that will make audiences feel a full range of emotions: they will laugh, feel angry, cry and ultimately have an incredible theatrical experience,” Neal said. ” I cast 40 local young performers in this production who have worked so hard throughout the rehearsal process and are very impressive. In addition, we have nearly 30 adult cast members, performers from all levels of experience pulling together to bring this classic story to life,” he said. “Audiences of all ages will enjoy the show! I am immensely proud of this cast.”
Neal said the friendships made in community theater are a big reason to continue being part of it.
“I have made many memories and developed lasting friendships from the theater, and love continuing that tradition with my family.”
He loves it so much he and his wife, Angie, who is a producer for “Oliver!”, have launched a children’s theater company called Rise Up Performing Arts. It includes students ages 7-18 from throughout the region, with rehearsals at Garfield Middle School and shows at the Fairfield Freshman School.
Rotary Presents has done musicals in the Hamilton community for six decades, and also includes performers from all over.
“It brings together people from all walks of life to create a magical community experience and all for a good cause,” Neal said. “It holds a deeper meaning to be able to direct a musical while knowing all the hard work that goes into it is for the greater good of our community.”
“I am grateful to Rotary President Lisa Guliano and the Rotary Club of Hamilton for entrusting me with their fundraiser for the last three years,” he said.
“Oliver!” has a cast and crew of more than 70 people. It is performed with an orchestra led by Director Benjamin Price.