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by J.T. Fetch
CATSKILL, NY (WRGB) — It was finally opening night Friday in Catskill for the high school's musical performance of Cinderella, after more than a month of controversies including staff suspensions, firings, protests, and packed meetings.
Last month we reported on how during a rehearsal for Cinderella, a student wouldn't stop talking. It was alleged that the chorus teacher and the director of the musical, Michelle Storrs-Ryan put a piece of tape over that student's mouth.
However, the student told CBS 6 it was all a joke, and that she put the tape on her mouth herself.
Despite that, both Storrs-Ryan and the high school principal were suspended. For days, students and parents rallied in support of them. They both have since returned to work, but all the off-stage drama led to delays for the Cinderella performance.
Alexandra Hallam is playing the lead role in the musical, and gave a passionate address to the school board last month.
Friday, she spoke only to CBS 6 ahead of the opening night performance:
Alexandra says it is bittersweet, since the show will go on without the musical's choreographer, Marcus McGregor. Students told us he was fired last month.
A statement from superintendent Dr. Dan Wilson noted an “employee publicly disclosed confidential information related to students and employees of the School District."
Crisis in the Classroom is a weekly segment in which CBS 6 investigates issues faced by educators, students, and families. Send any tips to our team by emailing or by calling (518) 288-6034.

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