For 85 students from Taunton High School, this was more than just a trip to New York City—it was a journey into the magic and power of live theater. Thanks to Moulin Rouge! leading man (and Taunton High alum) John Cardoza, these students had the opportunity to see Broadway up close and personal, many for the very first time.
🎭 For Two-Thirds of These Students, This Was Their First Broadway Show 🎭
The excitement was palpable as students took their seats in the theater, eagerly anticipating the spectacle ahead. From the first note to the final bow, they were enthralled by the larger-than-life performances, breathtaking set design, and the electrifying energy that only Broadway can deliver. But what made the experience truly special was knowing that the actor playing Christian once walked the same halls they do now.
After the show, John, along with his co-star Solea Pfeiffer (who plays Satine), graciously took time to answer students’ questions during an exclusive talkback. They spoke about their journeys to Broadway, the dedication it takes to perform eight shows a week, and how perseverance plays a role in making dreams a reality. For many students, seeing John on stage made their own ambitions feel within reach.
💡 The Impact of Theatre on These Students’ Futures 💡
Before the trip, 33% of students said they planned to pursue a career in performing arts. Another 44% didn’t plan to go into the industry but saw the value of using the skills learned in performing arts in other careers. After the show and talkback, that number skyrocketed—93% of students said they were now “more likely to pursue a career in performing arts, or one that uses skills I build in performing arts.”
For some, theatre is already a lifelong passion:
“Theatre means the entire world to me. It’s all I’ve done for my entire life since I was 5. It’s my 24/7, 9-5, 5-9. I can’t imagine my life without it. It has shaped who I am today, and I owe it all to everyone who has guided me.”
For others, this experience opened their eyes to new possibilities:
“I learned that it’s possible for people like me to go on Broadway and do great things.”
“You really can do whatever your heart desires. I just saw one of the best shows I’ve seen in a long time where the lead was a THS graduate. I think everyone can agree that we should all be a little more confident in ourselves, because we really can achieve greatness.”
🎶 John Cardoza’s Message: The Arts Matter 🎶
After the talkback, John sat down with us for a quick interview to share why access to the arts is so important for young people. He spoke about how experiences like this—seeing live theater, engaging with working artists—can be transformative.
One student summed it up best:
“Theater is everything. The arts are what make life beautiful. It’s why we do anything.”
For these 85 students, this wasn’t just a field trip—it was a moment of inspiration, a glimpse into what’s possible, and a reminder that big dreams can start in small hometowns.
A huge thank you to John Cardoza and Solea Pfeiffer for sharing their time and wisdom, and to the students of Taunton High School—may this experience remind you that your dreams are within reach, and the stage is always yours for the taking.