Bethany Lay, Central High School’s vocal music teacher and director of Bobcat Company, the school’s auditioned choir and musical theater group, has a deep passion for music and a history in the world of performance arts.
Before her teaching at Central, she pursued a master’s degree and also graced the stage as a musical performer, notably portraying Annie in “Annie the Musical.” She shared her lifelong connection to music. “It was just always a part of my life… ever since I was maybe five or six years old. I joined a choir and I loved singing… and just absolutely loved the relationships I could build through that and loved being able to express myself through music.” Mrs. Lay said.
Having dedicated four years to CHS, this year marks a special milestone for Mrs. Lay, as she witnesses the first group of freshmen she once taught graduate this year. “This is my first group of freshmen that I’m seeing graduate, which makes me a little emotional because this group of kids really feels like my kids.” Mrs. Lay said. Her love for the Central environment and the students she has taught shines through.
While her heart lies in teaching and seeing students’ talents flourish, Mrs. Lay acknowledges the challenges behind the scenes of putting on a musical, especially the administrative tasks, paperwork, and fundraising. “I would say that’s the part that I don’t care for as much and… don’t find as much joy.” Mrs. Lay said. However, her pride in guiding students and witnessing their journey to a polished performance remains unwavering. “When you see that… this really long, tedious process of piecing something together and seeing that final product and seeing how we grow along the way,” she says.
Beyond musical productions, Mrs. Lay also teaches choral pieces, a significant part of her responsibilities. She eagerly anticipates the opportunity to showcase the songs the choirs have practiced for months. She expresses her excitement for the upcoming choral festival, JB Loud, where they receive judgments and collaborate towards a shared goal. “I love events like that and I feel like it really bonds us going through that together… and preparing for that and having this goal that we’re all actively working towards.” Mrs. Lay said.
Looking ahead, Mrs. Lay eagerly anticipates her work with Bobcat Company in the spring play. She is eager to witness the casting process and the transformation of individuals into their characters. “I can’t wait to see who ends up being put in the roles… who’s going to be cast in each role, and I think it’s really neat to watch people… show up at auditions and callbacks… and see them really become those characters and then, after they get cast, grow into those characters through rehearsals,” she said.
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