This fall, I had the pleasure of recording Moana Jr. for the Fond du Lac School District middle schools. It was an unforgettable experience that showcased the incredible talent of young performers, the hard work of dedicated educators, and the power of professional video production to preserve a moment in time.
From the first notes of “How Far I’ll Go” to the final bows, this production was nothing short of magical. The students poured their hearts into every scene, and the stage came alive with vibrant costumes, stunning choreography, and infectious energy. Capturing this magic on video required careful planning and execution to ensure the final product did justice to the live performance.
Why I Used a Multi-Camera Setup
One of the keys to creating a professional-looking recording was using multiple cameras. With a single camera, it’s impossible to capture all the nuances of a live performance—especially in a show like Moana Jr., which is filled with big ensemble numbers, dynamic movements, and emotional solos.
- Wide Shots for the Full Stage: These shots showcased the ensemble numbers and larger set pieces, immersing viewers in the expansive world of the production.
- Close-Ups for Emotional Impact: By zooming in on key moments, I was able to highlight the performers’ expressions, drawing the audience into the characters’ stories.
- Dynamic Angles for Choreography: Side angles captured the energy of the dances, adding depth and movement to the video.
With this approach, the final video felt polished and professional—just like watching a musical on screen.
The Importance of Great Sound
Audio is often the unsung hero of a successful video. In a musical, the songs and dialogue are the heart of the story, and it’s crucial to capture them with clarity. For Moana Jr., I tapped into the main mixer’s AUX send to ensure professional-quality sound.
- Why the AUX Send Matters: This direct feed from the soundboard provided a clean and balanced audio signal, free from background noise or inconsistencies.
- Crystal-Clear Results: From the booming chorus of “We Know the Way” to the quieter, heartfelt moments, every note and line was perfectly captured.
This setup not only enhanced the viewing experience but also highlighted the students’ incredible performances, making it easy to relive the magic of the show.
Navigating Licensing for Recording
One important consideration for recording musicals is licensing. Many theatrical productions, including Moana Jr., don’t include video recording rights by default. Music Theatre International (MTI), which licenses Moana Jr., offers an optional video recording add-on for $75.00.
Here’s what that license allows:
- Archival Recordings: The video can be kept as a memory of the performance.
- Limited Distribution: Copies can be shared with participants and their families for personal, at-home viewing only.
- No Commercial Use: The recording cannot be sold, rented, or used in any way that generates revenue.
Understanding and respecting these licensing rules is critical to protecting the creators’ intellectual property and ensuring the integrity of the performance.
Preserving the Magic of Middle School Theater
Recording Moana Jr. was an incredible reminder of the joy that comes from capturing live performances. These students worked tirelessly to bring their characters to life, and being able to preserve their hard work on video was truly rewarding.
The final product wasn’t just a video, it was a time capsule, a way for families to relive the pride of seeing their kids on stage and for students to look back on their accomplishments. It was also a testament to the power of high-quality video production in elevating even a school performance into something unforgettable.
If your school or theater group is planning a production, I’d love to help capture the magic. Let’s work together to create a professional-grade recording that preserves the memories for years to come.