included students dancing on stage as lab specimens. He suggested that the most talked about scene from recent Follies was performed by Tim Dodge ’01, who mimicked St. Ignatius and sang, “I’m forging my letter of recommendation.” Prosser contends, “It brought down the house.”
“ Follies reflects the idea that we can respect one another while still sharing a laugh.” – Greg Meuler ’64
For the last three years, Rev. Tom Manahan, SJ has been the director. Working on acting, choreography and music with Nanette Banks, Ann Downey, Sue Sajdak and Randy Skowronski, Manahan sought to make Follies reflective of a more developed student understanding of lighting, sound and staging. Many individuals in the Marquette High community have been instrumental in the ultimate success of Follies over the years. All of those involved speak of one individual in particular who has become recognized as the real “producer” of the annual show. Rev. Charlie Stang, SJ is repeatedly acknowledged for his role in most of the productions. Prosser says, “Stang made all those involved develop a sense of what was possible as he worked to keep it all together.” Kreilein states, “Stang was the mainstay and worked to create a team that developed an eye as to how to get the best production.” Senior Follies is an important part of each school year. Seniors look forward to each summer planning meeting, shop for the appropriate costumes, respect the crunch time that comes with each practice and work repeatedly on the appropriate dance moves. Ultimately however, Follies is more than a stage production. Follies has come to form the basis of much of what is good about Marquette High School. For students and directors, it provides a sense of accomplishment. As Prosser eloquently suggests, “Follies is a giving thing. It reminds us of what we need to cherish each day—our foibles and our strengths.” Meuler says, “Follies reflects the idea that we can respect one another while still sharing a laugh.” Knowing the spirit of fun and camaraderie that is at the core of Follies, the hope is that the tradition of Senior Follies continues for another 50 years. Edward Brabant ’64 and Bob Welke ’64 in the inaugural Senior Follies