By Shaina Belsky
The HHS drama department is currently holding the final rehearsals for their fall production “Working”, which will be performed in the high school auditorium on Thursday, November 3 at 6:30, Friday and Saturday at 7:30, and Sunday at 2:00.

“Working” is based on the book by Studs Terkel. “The book is a collection of real people’s experiences and interviews, which was then turned into a stage musical,” said senior Nicole McLaughlin, who plays the librarian, Gretchen Johnston.

The musical is about the different points of view of working class Americans all over the country. “Each [person] has his own story and conflict based on the character they play. Because of the nature of the play, there is no main conflict necessarily,” stated senior Sam Chirco, who plays an ironworker.

The main theme is “the sense of worth that the average worker gets in a day,” said senior Matt Clark, who plays the trucker, Frank Decker.

Valerie von Rosenvinge, director and choreographer of the musical, explained, “The reason I’m drawn to this musical, especially in economic times, is because it is a celebration of the labor force that all too often gets ignored and underappreciated. In our particular case, we are dedicating our performances to the custodial staff at Hopkinton High School because all too often they are underappreciated too.”

The students have been rehearsing every day after school in the auditorium to prepare for the show. The whole cast sings and dances in each scene, and some even contributed to the choreography.

“Valerie is really big on letting us make the show our own,” said stage manager senior Madeline Lipkin.

Rehearsals are filled with laughs and jokes, but most importantly, enthusiasm. “Everyone is like family,” said Lipkin, “I’m looking forward to just being with everyone and enjoying the production.”