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It's time to dance! Interlochen Arts Academy presents 'The Prom'

Ava Baertschi (L) plays Emma and Blaire Johnson (R) plays Alyssa.

Musical theater students at Interlochen Arts Academy have spent the last few months rehearsing for the "The Prom," which opens on November 13.

"The Prom" is a 2016 musical by Matthew Sklar and Chad Beguelin. It focuses on Emma, a high schooler from Indiana whose prom has been cancelled by the PTA because she wants to bring her girlfriend Alyssa. With the help of four Broadway actors hoping to improve their own public image, Emma sparks acceptance and change in her local community. You can expect bright colors, catchy pop music and over-the-top dance numbers.

Classical IPR's Emma Stadelmann spoke with Ava Baertschi and Blaire Johnson, who play Emma and Alyssa. They discussed their methods for getting into character, some of their favorite scenes and what they hope the audience will take away from "The Prom."

"I want people to walk away knowing that they aren't alone regardless of how closed-minded their environment is, and to remind themselves that the world is a really big place and you just need to find your community," Blaire said.

You can hear the full conversation by clicking the "Listen" button.

"The Prom" will open at Interlochen on November 13 and runs until November 15. Tickets for "The Prom" are available on Interlochen's Concerts and Events page.

Emma Stadelmann is a Classical IPR host and digital content producer.