Senior Allison Fantley is set to shine in her final high school musical as she takes on the role of Molly Brown in the upcoming production of The Unsinkable Molly Brown. Fantley, who has been a key member of Hickory’s theatre department throughout her high school years, was overjoyed when she learned she had been cast in this pivotal role.
“I was very excited when I found out that I was cast! I am thrilled to bring her life to the Hickory stage,” Fantley said. Her enthusiasm for the role is evident as she looks forward to playing a character known for her strength and resilience.
What drew Fantley to the character of Molly Brown was her determination and sense of justice. “In researching her life, I found that she was headstrong and wasn’t afraid to stand up for others,” she explained. “I have no respect for bullies, and I won’t take no for an answer! I know what I want, and I know how to get it.” This shared boldness between Fantley and Molly Brown is part of what makes the character so appealing to the senior actress.
When she received the news that she’d landed the role, Fantley was both grateful and excited. “I was beyond grateful that Mama Wood and Mrs. Bachelor would trust me with this role, especially with it being Mrs. Bachelor’s role and Mama’s last show,” Fantley shared. It’s clear that she deeply respects the role’s legacy and is honored to take it on during such an important time in the theatre department.
As she prepares to embody Molly Brown on stage, Fantley is eager to add her personal flair to the character. “Molly and I are already alike, but I’ve got a few ideas up my sleeve. Personal flair is a specialty of mine,” she said with a smile. Fans can expect a performance that blends her unique style with the character’s spirited personality.
One of the aspects Fantley is most excited to explore in rehearsals is the relationships between her and her castmates. “I look forward to growing and forming relationships with my castmates, and seeing how onstage relationships are compared to the ones offstage,” she reflected. Her passion for teamwork and connection shines through in this insight into the collaborative nature of theatre.
As a senior, this role holds special significance for Fantley, who is both thrilled and thankful to be playing such a major part in her last high school musical. “This theatre department has been so welcoming and means the world to me,” she shared. “Everyone is supportive and loving. I treasure all of the relationships that I have formed and opportunities that have arisen.” Fantley has undoubtedly left her mark on the department, and her upcoming performance as Molly Brown will be a memorable highlight of her high school career.
When the curtain falls on closing night, Fantley is already preparing for an emotional farewell. “On closing night (AKA senior night), I will definitely cry during my little goodbye speech,” she said, hinting at the bittersweet emotions that will accompany her final performance with the Hickory theatre family.
With her strong portrayal of Molly Brown, Fantley is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the Hickory theatre department as she closes the chapter on her high school musical journey. Fans of The Unsinkable Molly Brown are in for a treat as this talented senior brings her character to life with energy, passion, and a personal touch.
