A freshman will crack into his high school drama career as a lead role in Drama Club’s production of Honk!

Jack Frommelt, freshman, was cast as Ugly, the main lead character in a musical that follows the story line of a fable that is very near and dear to many: The Ugly Duckling.

Going into the auditions for the musical, however, Frommelt said he didn’t have high expectations.

“I was really nervous because it was my first time trying out for one of the musicals at the high school, and when I had tried out for the play, I did not make it. So I was really nervous and since I was a freshman. I thought I wouldn’t get a role. I did not expect to get a callback for the lead role.”

Despite auditioning amongst older, more seasoned actors, Frommelt was called back to audition again alongside two seniors.

“I was really excited. At first I was in shock as to how everything had happened. When I was called back, I was called back with two very talented seniors who had also been called back for the same role as I,” Frommelt said.  “I was almost sure that one of them were going to get [the role]. When I had seen that I had earned the role, it was a huge surprise and it was a really great feeling.”

Because lead roles are typically given to upperclassmen who are seasoned and have been acting for longer than those younger than them, Frommelt said, the occurrence of a freshman getting a lead is rare.

“If you look at the cast lists from previous shows, you’ll see that by age you get more talented. And typically, you’re paying your dues as a freshman, and then as you progress, around senior year you tend to get bigger roles,” Frommelt said.

As rehearsals have begun and Frommelt has been introduced to his fellow cast members, Frommelt said that he has a great appreciation for the other actors and their talents.

“The cast is very great. They’re very talented and very passionate. All of the sophomores, juniors, and seniors are very talented and they have a very large amount of experience and skill. I just look up to them because I know that they are so talented,” Frommelt said. “It’s intimidating, but it’s good, because I see them as mentors.”