This May, Arroyo Grande High School (AGHS) Theatre Company will become the third high school in California and the first on the Central Coast to perform “The Prom.” This musical, which won the Drama Desk Award for Best Musical in 2019, follows the story of a high schooler named Emma who wants to bring her girlfriend to the prom and five zany Broadway stars that take it upon themselves to make sure that happens.

The main character, Emma Nolan, is played by Quinlin Gallagher (’24).

“As a seventeen-year-old lesbian, I really do relate to Emma,” Gallagher said. “I remember reading the YA novel adaptation of the musical in middle school and just feeling so seen. Ever since then, it’s been my dream to bring this story to life.”

The vast majority of the cast identifies as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, making their performances even more genuine.

London Raftery (’25), who plays Emma’s girlfriend, Alyssa Greene, describes the show as “…an upbeat modern musical that shows us what love is truly about. It is truly a learning experience of acceptance.”

The musical is directed by Lester Jenkins Wilson, who also coaches AGHS’ improv team ‘Grin and Bare It’.

“What is beautiful about this show in particular, is it has queer representation, it’s written in an honest way, and lets the audience have a taste of light and love,” Wilson said. “The characters in this show are all outsiders looking for acceptance and joy. Theatre presents as a mirror to life, and I believe that ‘The Prom’ lets people see themselves and say I am here.”

Not only is AGHS Theatre Company performing this musical, but AGHS Band will also be providing a live orchestra.

The show will run for one weekend (May 25-27), with evening performances each night at seven and one matinee at two on Saturday, May 27. Tickets are $15, with discounted tickets for seniors and AGHS students, and are available now.

AGHS Theatre Company’s last musical sold out before opening night! So get your tickets now. You can purchase tickets online (clarkcenter.org) or at the Clark Center Box Office.