Arts & Entertainment

WHIZ KID: Amie Sandillo, stage manager

Amity will graduate a lot of talented seniors this year, among them is the "heart" of Amity's Theater productions.

When you attend the production of at you obviously will appreciate the on-stage talent, the leadership of the directors, the choreography, lighting and set design.

But pay close attention to everything and know that much of what you see falls on the shoulders of one person. No, not the producer, but the stage manager.

Amie Sandillo worked her way up to the position since she came to Amity four years ago, always behind the scenes since the production of “Grease,” in 2008, she learned the ropes by helping during that show and “Rent,” in 2009.

Find out what's happening in Orangewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Last year, for the award-winning production of “Les Miserables,” she advanced into the more elite position of asst. stage manager, running around with a headset on, sending cues to the stage crew and lighting people and the cast while “putting out fires” backstage; making sure all the props and costume pieces were accounted for, etc.

If the show is perfect and runs seamlessly, you have Amie to thank.

Find out what's happening in Orangewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

This year, she is president of the Theater Department and a senior, so it will be bittersweet when the curtain falls on closing night, April 9.

She said the reality of working on her last show finally hit her this week.

Looking back at her high school career with the Amity Theater Department, she said each show was special.

“‘Grease’ was my first real experience with theater and I realized it was something I was interested in. ‘Rent’ was a phenomenal show and everyone, cast and crew, was so close. It was a fun show to do,” she said. “‘Les Mis’ was incredible, it proved who we were and what we had as a theater department. This show is great, and it’s my last one.

The “Chicago” experience was trying because of all the snow days earlier in the year that set the rehearsals back.

“I enjoyed seeing it all come together with the acting, scenery and music. I also enjoyed being with Kim, Jasmine and Lauren; people who’ve been here with me since freshman year,” she said.

After graduating from Amity in June, Amie will attend Emerson College in Boston where she will continue her theater studies. Her ultimate goal is to become a producer.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here