The lives of everyone at A. G. Wright Middle School changed dramatically when COVID swept the world. The drama class, under the guidance of beloved teacher Rudy Lane, dares to attempt something extraordinary despite all the odds and restrictions.
Lane and his class have six weeks to assemble a unique adaptation of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. As much as we’d rather forget about how awful the pandemic was, Our Show Must Go On peels back the curtains to let in a little ray of sunshine.
Perhaps the best and most enduring part of the film is how upbeat it is. Everyone on screen has gone through some form of hardship due to the lockdown, but they seem to take it in stride. Never is that more the case than with Mr. Lane himself, who exudes confidence and control under pressure. “Our whole goal is to entertain, provide escapism, and have that audience not think about one thing but the show,” he says to his cast with complete sincerity. Throughout the documentary, the filmmakers embrace this mindset, which forms the foundation of great theatre.
If there are any faults to find with Our Show Must Go On, it would be the pacing. Interviewing all the students, parents, and teachers can make it challenging to keep track of everyone as the story progresses. There is a sense of narrative bloat, particularly after juggling so many people for 71 minutes.
Overall, though, the film is very insightful because it portrays rehearsals and the many challenges that come with them. Concerns abound as Lane’s initial worry about the play slowly fades. The interviews, which are conducted between cast A and cast B, reveal how each person involved is feeling, whether it’s about their own effort or their castmates. There’s something empowering about seeing so many participants eager for their shot, even if it’s only for a minor role. “It didn’t matter if I only had 13 lines; I was just so happy that I made it,” a student named Kaleigh exclaims, delighted. As each rehearsal flies by, the day of the performance draws nearer, as parents and teachers flock to see the spooky spectacle.
Persevering against all odds is what Our Show Must Go On preaches, and it certainly puts it into practice. With a cast of hard-working, genuine youngsters surrounded by supportive faculty, the sense of togetherness resonates strongly. If you’re looking for a documentary that offers something feel-good, you’ll have a good time with this one.