Hello Dewie! On March 20-21, senior Dewie Collard will bring the character of Dolly to life on the auditorium stage in the school’s spring musical of Hello, Dolly!

Hello, Dolly! is a classic Broadway musical filled with humor, romance, and unforgettable music. Originally debuting in 1964, it tells the story of Dolly Gallagher Levi, a bold matchmaker who sets out to arrange a marriage for a wealthy businessman—while secretly planning to marry him herself. The show is known for its lively energy, dazzling musical numbers, and a lead role that requires both charm and comedic timing.

Collard will play Dolly Gallagher Levi. Dolly is a larger-than-life character, full of wit, confidence, and a touch of mischief. Throughout the show, she orchestrates love connections, outsmarts those around her, and delivers some of the musical’s most famous songs, including “Before the Parade Passes By” and “Hello, Dolly!” It’s a role that demands a strong stage presence, and Dewie Collard brings it to life with enthusiasm and flair.

At its heart, Hello, Dolly! is a story about love, second chances, and embracing life to the fullest. Dolly’s journey from a clever schemer to a woman ready to open her heart again makes her one of Broadway’s most beloved characters. With Dewie Collard in the leading role, the SVHS production promises to capture all the fun, laughter, and excitement that make this musical a timeless favorite.

There is no better person for the role of Dolly Gallagher Levi than Collard. “When I was little, I constantly put on plays for my family at home, and now—being Dolly is a dream come true. I went from being in just two scenes my freshman year to being in nearly all of them! I just feel so blessed!”

Collard has been immersed for months in preparing the show. “I have practiced every day after school since December. I have about 250 lines as Dolly and perform seven different songs. Memorization has been pretty difficult and stressful at times, but it’ll all be worth it,” she said.

Collard has also put in extra effort to make sure her portrayal is as authentic as possible. “I research what life would have been like for my character in that time period—in this case, the 1890s—and that helps me truly create a dimensional character! said Collard.

Mrs. Fullmer, the show’s assistant director, has high praise for Dewie’s hard work and dedication. “Dewie has been simply fantastic to work with this year in Hello, Dolly! She is always prepared, on time, and has such a great attitude. It’s a huge undertaking to be the lead in a musical, and Dewie has definitely risen to the challenge! We are really proud of her. She has worked so hard—countless hours after school practicing lines, singing, and dancing.”

Part of what students enjoy the most about doing the musical is their chance to be with friends and make new ones. “The connections you make with your cast mates are something you’ll cherish forever,” said Collard.

Hello, Dolly! has become a beloved production in schools and theaters across America, and the directors, cast, and crew of SVHS are thrilled to bring it to life at SVHS on March 20, 21, and 22.