Excitement builds across the school as the curtain rises on the very first performance of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. This powerful and moving musical proudly claims its place as the inaugural high school production of the 2025–2026 school year. The last article explains how the character of Esmeralda was brought to life by the talented junior actress Michelle Gutierrez, while this one brings to the spotlight the protagonist Quasimodo, played by King Bell, and Frollo, played by Mario Galdames.

King Bell, a sophomore at North Broward, shares his experience in becoming Quasimodo. “Quasimodo is a bell ringer of the Notre Dame Cathedral,” Bell explains. “Born with a physical deformity, his Hump, he is an outcast in society, but he is kind, gentle, and hopes for connection beyond the bell tower.” Bell describes the role as a reward for his hard work and a challenge that pushes him to give his best. 

He goes on to explain how he portrays Quasimodo’s emotions on stage: “I show Quasimodo’s sadness not just with a frown but in small, fragile movements and how I make myself seem smaller. His happiness is like a discovery, so I show it in light steps, a tilt of my head, or awe at something beautiful. His fear is in how I recoil, tense up, or guard myself because danger feels intense and unfamiliar. Every emotion comes from his life and isolation, so even small details matter.” For Bell, Quasimodo, whom he affectionately calls “Quasi”, is adventurous, curious and imaginative, while also being compassionate and expressive.

Moreover, Bell notes that he relates to his character on a personal level. “The part of Quasimodo’s character I relate to the most is his difficulty communicating. Similar to Quasi, I have a stutter, and that adds to the challenge of expressing myself clearly,” he shares. On the bright side, though, Bell finds that this connection helps him play the role more authentically: “His struggle to be understood is something I’ve experienced too, so I can bring that truth into my performance in a way that feels very real.”

Mario Galdames, a senior at North Broward, steps into the role of Frollo. “Frollo is the Archdeacon of Notre Dame, and the Uncle of Quasimodo,” he explains. “After Quasi’s father died, his brother, Frollo, decided to raise Quasimodo and protect him from the world. Although providing him a home, he shelters him from the outside, swearing that Quasi should never leave.” Galdames shares that Frollo is different from the characters he is used to playing, but that’s what he thinks makes the “process more refreshing and new.”

For Galdames, playing Frollo means finding a mix between being powerful and showing feelings. He aims to show that Frollo’s actions come from his past and his fears, not just from being mean. “Frollo has lost people he loved and feels like he has to protect Quasimodo,” Galdames says. “He thinks he’s doing the right thing, even when his choices hurt others.” On stage, Galdames uses his voice, body, and expressions to show Frollo’s control but also his struggle inside.

When asked what he enjoys most, Galdames says he likes showing that villains are not always completely bad. “I want the audience to see that Frollo really believes he is helping, even when he is not,” he explains. He also enjoys the scenes that show Frollo’s emotions and past. “The beginning is one of my favorite parts,” he shares. “It shows who Frollo is and why he became that way.” For Galdames, playing Frollo is more than just acting; it’s about understanding a person who made mistakes but still thinks he is doing the right thing.

As opening night approaches, both Bell and Galdames feel proud of the work they have put into their roles. Their dedication and passion show how much effort goes into bringing each character to life on stage. The Hunchback of Notre Dame is more than just a school play; it’s a story about love, acceptance, and understanding that is told through the hard work of numerous talented students. Everyone at North Broward can look forward to an unforgettable performance that celebrates the power of theater and the heart behind every role.