The lights go down and actors rush on stage to get ready for the next scene, as the lights switch on, the doctor walks on and sings a melody.

Freshman Maddie Brown got her chance to be in the spotlight on stage. She proved her talent to an auditorium full of viewers during her solo part in the fall musical “Matilda.” Maddie earned her spot in varsity theatre as a freshman through hard work and dedication.

“It truly is an honor to have the opportunity to get to do theatre with all of the wonderful people involved,” Brown said.

“Matilda” was the first real musical she has been in and her first time being in the spotlight on stage.

“It was really fun,” Brown said. “Opening night there was a lot of anxiety but once I went on stage, it felt so great!”

The theatre environment has helped her be more comfortable and feel at home, with this being her first year.

“Through all the extracurricular activities I’ve done, I have never met such a loving and caring group of people,” Brown said. “Everyone I’ve gotten to know has shown me how wonderful of a decision it was to join theatre. I love this group of people with all of my heart, and will never forget how wonderful the experience has been so far!”

Maddie decided to join theatre in the first place because her sister inspired her. Singing also persuaded her to try it out.

“My older sister found her passion for theatre in high school and had nothing but good things to say about it all of the time, so that was very convincing,” Brown said. “I’ve also been singing for most of my life and have loved to perform so that also was a contributing factor.”

Maddie enjoys singing outside of school and theatre; she is always humming some tune.

“I always love singing,” Brown said. “Whether it be in theatre or not, it is hard to find a day when I’m not singing at some point!”

She finds theatre very enjoyable so far this year.

“My favorite part of theatre is the true family that it is,” Brown said. “These people are who I spend all of my time with and I adore getting to be a part of this family.”