Valley Musicals

VALLEY nUSICHL CONTRIBUTORS Meet The Daily Item’s team of photographers, review­ ers and writers who put together Valley Musicals:

Jerri Brouse — Reviewer Jerri Brouse is a freelance writer and photogra­ pher who lives in Lewisburg. She writes Ap­ plause, Health and Life features and covers live events for The Daily Item.

Jove Graham — Reviewer Jove Graham is an actor, director, and board president of the RiverStage Community Theatre.

After getting a degree in theatre, he graduated from the Arden Professional Apprenticeship and has been active in many community theatres.

Cindy O. Herman — Preview writer Cindy O. Herman is a freelance writer from Snyder County. Interviewing students and teach­ ers involved in the Valley’s high school musicals always brings a smile to her face. She loves their enthusiasm.

Robert Inglis -Coordinator/PhotographerA/ideographer Robert Inglis has been working as a photographer at the Daily Item for 20 years and is a Rochester Institute of Technology graduate. He has been working on Valley Musicals since its inception.

Anna Wiest — Reviewer/Photographer/ Videographer Anna Wiest is a reporter with The Daily Item.

In her free time, she is likely reading a novel, lifting weights or cuddling her German shepherd, Harvey.

Kyra Smith-Cullen — Coordinator/Writer Kyra Smith-Cullen multi-tasks as the features and deputy news editor at The Daily Item. She’s loved musicals since childhood and can frequently be caught with a tune on her tongue.

VALLEY MUSICALS \ THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

It takes a village o paraphrase Actress Keala Settle, who has performed on Broadway but is probably most well-known as the Bearded Lady Lettie Lutz in “The Greatest Showman” with Hugh Jackman, it takes a village to put a show on.

She was talking about Broadway specifically, but that doesn’t make it any less true about high school theater.

No matter how many people are on the cast and the crew, a produc­ tion relies on everybody working hard to build the story, the set and the musical arrangements.

The students who were on the cast and the crew in the 13 musicals per­ formed in the Valley this spring will most likely find that to be true.

Midd-West High School’s director, Adam Dietz, had a cast and crew of 18 students for the school’s produc­ tion of “Godspell.” When I was asking him questions after the show, we spoke about the difficulties of having a smaller cast.

“I’ve always told my students that every part, despite the number of lines, is important to the story and vitality of the show,” he said.

The same week his students did “Godspell,” Line Mountain Middle/ High School was putting on a pro­ duction of “The Sound of Music” with close to triple the amount of people Dietz had: Around 67 people total, students and the adults helping to teach or build.

But Line Mountain musical direc­ tor Beverly Lash still imparted the same principles in her students.

There is no star in theater, it’s an ensemble. A similar refrain can be heard in the interviews with the cast, crew and staff of all the musicals this year. And next year. As long as there is theater.

These are students who worked for weeks in total to produce one week­ end of performances — with maybe an encore or two at events such as The Daily Item's Valley Musical Red

T

KYRA SMITH-CULLEN Features Editor

Carpet Celebration, where several singers revisited their roles for their peers in the Valley. And yet, many choose to do it again.

The collaboration, the passion and the dedication are the lifeblood of theater and those principles can be translated into so many other aspects of life. Like when you’re putting together weeks’ worth of coverage about high school musicals in the local newspaper, as I have.

When I took over Valley Musi­ cals, I was lucky enough to have a village to help me. Though I’ve worked on elements of it in the past, I was mainly a stagehand — editing stories and designing pages in the weekly Applause section. This was my first year assigning stories, get­ ting reviewers in the theaters, talk­ ing to directors about their produc­ tions. None of this would have been possible without the help of Cindy O. Herman, who wrote previews for every musical; Jove Graham and Jerri Brouse, who reviewed several musicals each; Robert Inglis — who helped me organize all of this in addition to photographing and recording many of the musi­ cals before creating video segments highlighting all of them — and Anna Wiest, who stepped in when she was needed to review musicals or fill in for Rob. I wouldn’t have had a clue about the steps involved in planning the Red Carpet Celebra­ tion or this publication without The Daily Item Publisher Fred Scheller, Advertising Manager Lori Seebold and Editor Bill Bowman. My colleagues Eric Pehowic, Chelsea Ritter, Aron Agerton and Karen Renninger didn’t have as tangible of a role in this endeavor, but without their work, I would never have been able to do this.

It takes a village, to be sure.

ON THE COVER

1 A CELEBRATION OF 13 local high school productions

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1. Adriann Rodriguez, Hannah Yucha and Gabby McGinley sing in Mount Carmel’s “Mamma Mia!” 2. Jera Strony and Alyssa Sargent rehearse for Danville’s “The Addams Family” 3. Audrey Pennington leads a song from Lewisburg’s “Guys and Dolls” 4. Chloe Masser performs a solo from Line Mountain’s “The Sound of Music.”

5. Brooklynn Weaver sings during Meadowbrook Christian’s “Guys and Dolls” 6. Kyle Boonie rehearses for Midd-West’s “Godspell” 7. Kyra Zechman performs in a number from Mifflinburg’s “Beauty and the Beast” 8. Chloe Russell sings during Milton’s “Chicago: Teen Edition” 9. Hailey Beaver performs during Selinsgrove’s “The Little Mermaid” 10. Alaina Glowatski sings a song from Shamokin’s “Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street: School Edition” 11. Jayla Lopez rehearses for Shikellamy’s “Tuck Everlasting” 12. Josh Lahr sings during Southern Columbia’s musical, “Bye Bye Birdie” 13. Gavin Hormell plays the lead role in Warrior Run’s “The Lightning Thief” Photos By Robert Inglis and Anna Wiest/The Daily Item

VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 — It Takes A Villages 3 — On the cover 4 — Danville, “The Addams Family” 6 — Lewisburg, “Guys and Dolls” 8 — Line Mountain, “The Sound of Music” 10 — Meadowbrook Christian, “Guys and Dolls” 12 — Midd-West, “Godspell” 14 — Mifflinburg, “Beauty and the Beast” 16 — Audiences add magic for performers 3

VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

18 — Milton, “Chicago: Teen Edition” 20 — Mount Carmel, “Mamma Mia!” 22 — Selinsgrove, “The Little Mermaid” 24 — Shamokin, “Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber of Fleet Street: School Edition” 26 — Shikellamy, “Tuck Everlasting” 28 — Southern Columbia, “Bye Bye Birdie” 30 — Warrior Run, “The Lightning Thief”

OUTILLE “The Ad dams Family”

Students, new director challenged each other to make production memorable

By Kyra Smith-Cullen ksmithcuUen@dailyitem.com

Photos By Robert Inglis/The Daily Item

Top left: Allie Focht and Owen Crane act as Morticia and Gomez Addams. Top right: The Addams Ancestors dance.

Above: Jera Strony portrays Wednesday Addams.

4 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

When Aubyn Johnson took on the role of musical director at Danville Area High School, he was joining a cast and crew where many of them had already worked together before.

“The transition into the position was rather seamless and 1 appreciate my students for that, they welcomed a complete stranger and worked hard to produce an incredible show,” Johnson said.

However, there were some adjust­ ments that both he and the students had to figure out as they approached show time for their production of “The Addams Family.”

“I think the biggest adjustment for the students was getting used to my personality. I am a very laidback person and my answer to most questions is ‘we’ll figure that out later’ or ‘that sounds like a problem for future Aubyn,’” he said. “I think that frustrated students because they wanted an answer right away to their questions.”

Though “The Addams Family” was chosen to be the musical before

he was hired, Johnson dove into the script to unpack the show and figure out what to do with it.

“One of the biggest challenges was just to find ways to make the Addams house seem larger than life. So as we started building, we continued to find new ways to introduce things that just shouldn’t happen,” he said, pointing out elements such as a hidden open­ ing in the staircase for Thing to walk through, a painting that “comes to life like in the Scooby Doo cartoons” and a bookshelf that opens to reveal Cousin Itt hiding behind it.

“1 think that for a comedy like ‘The Addams Family,’ it is important to find those little moments to help enhance the comedy that is written in the script,” he continued.

His and the crew’s work on the house paid off, as The Daily Item’s reviewer Anna Weist said the set was “transformative, beautifully detailed and brought new life to every number.”

Johnson said he knew the show was going to be incredible early dur­ ing rehearsals, but the key element See ADDAMS, Page 5

ERST AND CREW Owen Crane (Gomez Ad­ dams), Allie Focht (Morticia Addams), Jera Strony (Wednesday Addams), Alyssa Sargent (Fester Addams), Heidi Peña Yanes (Pugsley Addams) Clare Charlton (Grandma), Jaden Crowley (Lurch), Collin Cummins (Lucas Belneke), Tab Crellln (Mai Belneke), Jill Nled (Alice Belneke), Kyla Brookhart (Cousin Itt); Addams ances­ tors: Nick Dunlap, Avery Haas, Layla Hilkert, Avery Loper, Reagan Prelsz, Teyana Randolph, Collin Santore, Alaina Soza, Joseph Soza, Elyse Spahr, Lillie Whiting; Crew: Luke Brokenshlre, Alex Cichoskie, Geo Fish, Erin Fitzpatrick, Elliot Heim, Nathan Hepner, Chlmaka Iregbu, Emily Kehoe, Jasper Martin, Ella Meadows, Janelle Stassel, Isabella Stem, Ambyr Whiting and Marcus Wisor

Students, new director challenged each other to make The Addams Family’ memorable ADDAMS, from Page 4 didn’t come to fruition until the week before the show.

“From the very beginning when I met with my set designer and set builders, I had this wild idea of the Addams mansion breaking into pieces during the song ‘One Normal Night,’ and I told the students about it during our very first rehearsal together,” he said. “Most looked at me as if I was crazy because they weren’t sure how that was going to work based on a limited number of crew and spacing concerns and general safety concerns. I told them just to trust me and we’d figure it out eventually.”

As the process progressed, even he had doubts about the feasibility of such a set.

“The week before we started doing full runs of the show, we took time just to try it during a rehearsal and it took us three or four times to do it correctly and safely, but when they started spinning and finally clicked back into place, that was the moment that 1 knew all of the crazy ideas that we had and the little subtleties added throughout the show was going to make this one very special,” Johnson said.

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tlUSICÜL rCEDBÜCII The cast of Danville High School’s production of “The Addams Family” had a packed auditorium laughing out loud.

From the beginning, the overture had audience members snapping along to the well-known theme song. The opening number, “When You’re An Ad­ dams,” set the tone for the two and a half hours of witty characters and dark humor that would follow.

In the first act, Gomez, the family patriarch, found himself caught between the opposing wishes of his wife and daughter. His dilemma was hilariously de­ tailed in the number “Trapped,” in which junior Owen Crane, as Gomez, shifted between explaining his troubles to the audience and attempting to please both of the women he loved.

Also in the first act, the lively number “Pulled” featured brother and sister Wednesday and Puglsey Addams, portrayed by junior Jera Strony and senior Heidi Peña Yanes. Strony’s lovely voice brought sensitivity to Wednesday’s emotions, while her brother’s desire to be tormented added a perfect mix of comedy.

Other members of the Addams family consisted of Morticia, Fester, Grandma, and Lurch, all of which added to the story with their own hilarity.

The Beineke family, the son of which plans to marry Wednesday, visited the Addams family for din­ ner. Both Wednesday and Lucas long for just “One Normal Night,” to reveal their plan to their families, but normal doesn’t seem to be in the cards for them.

The highlight of the second act was Fester’s solo “The Moon and Me.” Senior Alyssa Sargent sang the character’s ballad confessing his love for the moon.

The sincerity with which Sargent presented the num-

Above: Collin Cummins, Tab Crellin, Jill Nied as the Beineke family and Alyssa Sargent as Un­ cle Fester rehearse. Top: “The Addams Family” cast rehearses. ber made the number even more humorous.

The Addams’ costumes were true to the essence of the family, dark and mysterious. Meanwhile, the Beinekes’ bright, colorful outfits made the dichotomy all the clearer.

The set was transformative, beautifully detailed and brought new life to every number. The crew took careful measures to move large pieces and trans­ form the Addams’ home according to the scene.

The cast of “The Addams Family” worked as an ensemble to nail the comedy and keep the audi­ ence on the edge of their seats. New to the program, Aubyn Johnson had quite the directorial debut on the Danville stage. Kudos to all!

— Anna Wiest

LEWISBURG “Guys and Dolls”

Cast met demands of dance-heavy show

By Kyra Smith-Cullen

ksmithcullen@dailyitem.com

Photos By Robert Inglis/The Daily Item

Top left: Jonah Carney and Naveen Ramsaran perform in “Guys and Dolls” Top right and right: The cast rehearses for “Guys and Dolls.” Above: Audrey Pennington performs as Adelaide.

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VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

When Lewisburg Area High School’s Director Sarah Tiede was planning this year’s musical, she wanted to give her senior actors a new challenge.

“I really wanted them to experience a dance-heavy show,” she said, noting that the seniors had never done one during their tenure.

The entire cast worked hard to develop the skill for their production of classic musical “Guys and Dolls.”

The performance was praised for its choreography, led by Alfonso Parker Jr., and the level of professionalism the dancing created. Numbers featuring the group of characters called the Hot Box Dancers — “Bushel and a Peck” and “Take Back Your Mink” — were especially challenging but achieved a level of syncopation and harmony that was admirable.

“We had videos the kids could work with on their own and I know there were a lot of passes written for study halls where they met and worked on their dance moves. We had a dance boot camp to start off the season and worked on numbers

throughout,” Tiede said. “I loved watching the progression of the learning process and the final product of sass and snap.”

Another thing Tiede considered when choosing the production was how it contrasted between last year’s show, the emotionally-packed and dramatic “Les Miserables.”

The change was a challenge for Jonah Carney, the senior who portrayed Sky Masterson.

“This year was a change of pace not only in the emotional response from the viewers, but also because we had to perform spoken lines this year rather than singing the entire

production,” he said. Carney starred as Marius in “Les Miserables” last year and has been a part of several Lewisburg Area High School musicals.

As with many high school productions, part of the thrill of live performance for actors is the audience response.

“I loved hearing the laughs and interaction from the audience,” Carney said. “It was very exciting to feel the audience’s energy after many rehearsals of running the show for a mostly empty house.”

See GUYS, Page 7

CAST AND CREW

Above: Jonah Carney and Summer Evans rehearse for “Guys and Dolls.”

Cast met demands of dance-heavy ‘Guys and Dolls’ GUYS, from Page 6

Carney and his co-stars Audrey Pennington, Naveen Ramsaran and Summer Evans helped lead the musical with their chemistry and vocal abilities, creating enjoyable moments for their audiences.

“My favorite moment during the live production was holding out pitches during ‘Sue Me’ with Naveen and hearing the audience’s response to that moment,” said Pennington, a senior who starred as Miss Adelaide.

With a cast of about 40 students, there were a lot of big numbers and moving parts happening both on and off stage. Though there may have been some hiccups during performances, students on the crew — including back stage manager Madeline Barbella — did their best to minimize the impact. Barbella, a senior, said the panic and problem solving during those moments made some of her favorite memories during the performances.

“I enjoyed everything I was doing but those moments made me feel like I really was part of something bigger,” she said.

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VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

MUSICAL FEEDBACK The students in the Lewisburg Area High School, under the direction of Sarah Tiede, put on a fantastic production of “Guys and Dolls.” Featuring an eye-poppingly colorful set and costumes and a large cast, this dazzling production of the Frank Loesser hit was a real treat.

Premiering on Broadway in 1950 and based on Damon Runyon’s short stories set in the 1930’s, Guys and Dolls tells the intertwining stories of two couples in New York City — Nathan Detroit and Adelaide, and Sky Masterson and Sarah Brown — as they gamble their way through fortune and romance. In these leading roles, this production featured seniors Jonah Carney and Audrey Pennington as Sky and Adelaide, respectively, and juniors Naveen Ramsaran and Summer Evans as Nathan and Sarah. Their strong voices led by example and set the tone for this very vocally-strong production all around, under the music direction of Jon Walz. Beautiful barbershop harmonies, for example, during an a-cappella section of “The Old Established” really showed off how much hard work the vocal ensemble had put into this show. In addition to those with the leading roles, there

were many other standout performers in the large cast of gamblers, missionaries and dancing girls as well, particularly sophomore Rae Morgan as Nicely-Nicely Johnson, providing additional comic relief and bringing down the house with lengthy applause after leading the big production number of “Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat.”

Colorful, period-perfect costumes led by Cyndy Shaffer and Pat Musselman, and a modular and lavishlooking set designed by Jennifer Wakeman provided a terrific backdrop for the talent on this stage. The choreography, led by Alfonso Parker Jr., was also a major part of this show and gave it a professional-looking vibe.

With an Act II that kept the momentum going with great songs and some great comedic timing from Nathan and Adelaide (“Sue Me”) and Sarah and Adelaide (“Marry the Man Today”), this show hit all the right notes and was enjoyable all the way through.

A special thanks to the Lewisburg school district for providing closedcaptioning for their audience members, and congratulations to everyone involved in this show!

— Jove Graham

Jonah Carney (Sky Masterson), Summer Evans (Sarah Brown), Naveen Ramsaran (Nathan Detroit), Audrey Pennington (Adelaide), Rae Morgan (Nicely-Nicely Johnson), Liam Shabahang (Benny Southwest), Grace Bruckhart (Arvide Abernathy), Ezra Zook (Rusty Charlie), Laura Tranquillo (Big Julie), Daniel Ren (Harry the Horse), Alessandro Perrone (Lt. Brannigan, Master of Ceremonies), Taylor Howarth (Angie the Ox), Paul Tranquillo (Joey Biltmore), Erica Haefner (General Cartwright), Jaelyne Taylor (Agatha), Halie Shnyder (Martha), Gabe Newlin (Calvin), Katie Kelley (Mimi), Jenna Binney (Allison), Emily Berge (Vernon), Ella Mirshahi (Ferguson), Ian Cavanagh, Ethan Pilling, Nicodemus Charles, Connor Felo, Clara Graham, Leah Wetzel, Ceili Kisvarday, Orissa Reed, Lucie Gosson-Roy, Audra McIlwaine, Trinity Zinszer, Lindsey Barker, Mae Haussman, Daniel Ren, Luca Kuhn, Micah Zook, Tyson Nicholls, Justin Sabo, Carter Davis, Logan Frantz; Crew: Alexy Roseburg, Isaac Sussman, Jacob Weis, Claire Castle, Brynn Sisk, Caroline Scheckter, Koosh Nadkarni, Maddy Barbella, Timmy Coughlin, Natalie Dewald, Gabriella Rosenburg, Kate Cheville, Kiran Stamm, Hope Kaszuba, Paige Wright, Kiera Breeding, Ellis Reed, Gwynn Rowe, Emma Trupp, Sophia Torrez-Centeno, Kelsey Williams, Alissa Troxell, Cecilia Cuando-James, Angela Doan, Kate Haussman, Gracie Gelnett, Maya Sak, Morgan Strieby, Ben Cheville, Katie Houtz, Linghan Wan, Rachel Levine, Zainab Shahid and Sonja Johnson

T he S ound of M usic '

Many hands made musical possible

By Kyra Smith-Cullen ksmithcullen@dailyitem.com

Photos By Anna Wiest/The Daily Item

Top left: Line Mountain students portray­ ing nuns rehearse for “The Sound of Mu­ sic.”

Top right: The Von Trapp family meets Ma­ ria in Line Mountain’s musical.

Above: Chloe Masser sings during re­ hearsals 8 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

When Line Mountain Middle/ High School was preparing for the spring musical, director Bev­ erly Lash had something to think about beyond what she thought her students were capable of. She had to think of a production that relied more on female performers.

“We decided to do the Sound of Music because it is timeless and we do not have many male actors,” she said. “There are not a lot of larger shows with orchestra music that are heavily femaleoriented.”

She said hardly any men audi­ tioned for the musical and many of them came into production af­ ter the auditions. She hadn’t even heard some of them sing when they joined.

“They did a fabulous job,” she said.

Lash said she breathed a sigh of relief about two weeks before opening night when she realized everything was coming together.

“I knew the students would do

their best from the beginning. We have a great ensemble of students who work really well together and I teach them to leave their egos at the door,” she said. “I believe a good, positive show is when the group realizes they are an ensemble. No one is better than the other.”

Junior Levi Ferster, who played Captain Georg Von Trapp, said one of the most challenging things for him leading up to the show was rehearsing without all the actors.

“We have a large variety of stu­ dents in the musical and during many rehearsals, some students had to play another character, just so others could practice,” he said.

Lash said her biggest challenge before the production was jug­ gling directorial responsibilities and being in charge of the techni­ cal aspects as well.

“I had some great adults and students who were instrumental in pulling the show together,” she said. “Cheryl Ibberson, who is our business manager, helped so much with the production. The students

adore her and she sewed most of the Von Trapp kids’ costumes.

Mae Lesher did our costuming and props. She was great and her entire family helped in all aspects of the show. The list goes on.”

According to The Daily Item reviewer Jerri Brouse, the audi­ ence learned how many people it took to put on the musical.

“Probably the best thing about the entire production was see­ ing how many students, parents, teachers and volunteers from the community came together to make this show happen,” Brouse said. “At the end of Saturday night’s show, Ferster took the opportunity to list many of the behind-the-scenes individuals whose time and talents were invaluable.”

This was Ferster’s sixth produc­ tion.

“The production was a great learning experience for many, and I want to thank every single person that helped in any way because it would not have been possible without them,” he said.

COST ID CREW

Addy Shingara as Liesel Von Trapp and Evan Swinehart as Rolf Gruber rehearse a dance scene from Line Mountain High School’s “The Sound of Music.”

Nisei rcEDflicii If you missed out on Line Moun­ tain’s production of “The Sound of Music,” well, you really missed out.

From the lively renditions of wellknown, popular songs from the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical including “Marla” and “Do-Re-Mi” to the adorable antics of the Von Trapp children and the sweet love story between the leads, this show gave audiences a little bit of everything.

Chloe Masser (Maria) and Levi Ferster (Capt. Georg Von Trapp) were perfectly paired as the leads for this show — Masser was convinc­ ing as the young, confused, head­ strong, free-spirited young woman.

The character of Maria is described as “spunky, opinionated, warm, resourceful, youthful, gentle and kind with much determination,” and Masser delivered just that — with a lovely voice to boot. Ferster played Capt. Von Trapp with charisma and it was fun seeing them both interact with “the children.”

Of course It’s always the little ones who steal the show, and while that’s not entirely true here (all of the per­ formers were all amazing), there’s no denying the youngest members of the Von Trapp children were particularly sweet and adorable on stage and somehow managed to keep up with with their older “siblings” throughout the song and dance numbers.

The rest of the cast didn’t disap­ point, either. Queenlyn Zartman did an outstanding job as the glamorous widow Baroness Elsa von Schraeder, managing to come off true to charac­ ter as smart, beautiful, wealthy, and sophisticated. Watching the back and forth between Zartman and Dustin Baumert (playing Max Detweiler, Captain von Trapp’s older brother and her friend) was amusing. Seeing the budding romance unfold between Liesel Von Trapp (played by Addy Shingara) and Rolf Gruber (played by Evan Swinehart) was also sweet.

Aesthetically, both the costumes

and the set were nicely done. On stage were period appropriate fur­ niture and props, including some authentic World War II pieces. The scenery projected on a large screen on stage easily transformed indoor to outdoor scenes and boasted a color­ ful and creative hand painted double door as well as a beautiful replica of the painting “Rosebushes under Trees.”

Probably the best thing about the entire production was seeing how many students, parents, teachers and volunteers from the community came together to make this show hap­ pen. At the end of Saturday night’s show, Ferster took the opportunity to list many of the behind-the-scenes individuals whose time and talents were invaluable. Seniors were also recognized, including Baumert who, in addition to playing Detweiler, was an integral part of the pit orchestra, running back and forth from stage to pit throughout the performances.

— Jerri B rouse

9 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

Cast: Dustin Baummert, Rhyleigh Beer, Isabella Campbell, Madilynn Carta, Mark Carta, Kyra Cortelyou, Salamae Doyle, Levi Ferster, Raelyn Graff, Katie Heim, Kendal Heim, Kinzley Hollenbach, Leo Hollenbach, Eva Malfara, Audrey Martz, Chloe Masser, Emma O’Neill, Breann Reed, Addy Shingara, Delaney Shingara, Joseph Shipe, Mary Snyder, Cora Spotts, Evan Swinehart, Kylie Troutman, Derek Wolf, Brookelyn Zartman, Queenlyn Zartman; Tech crew: Ella Shipe (stage manager), Lucy Shipe (assistant stage manager), Joseph Barwick, Levi Lesher, Clara Michetti, Santino Michetti, Pratvi Patel, Sarah Schaible, Eliana Shipe, Joseph Shipe, Laura Snyder, Ashley Strohecker, Paden Swinehart, Cadence Walshaw; Pit band: Mrs. Debbie Baumert, Brianna Bingaman, Miss Ashley Fister, Corrinne Mace, Mr. Nathan Masser, Mrs. Rebecca Mace, Mrs. Valissa Masser, Dr. Harold Mor­ gan, Mr. Liam Osburn, Blake Rothermel, Mr. John Shimp, Cas­ sandra Snyder, Griffin Tressler, Miss Kaitlyn Troutman; Production staff: Mrs. Beverly Lash (director), Mr. Liam Nyce (pit director), Dr. Harold Morgan (prac­ tice accompanist), Mrs. Devin Reedy (choreographer), Mrs. Cheryl Ibberson (busi­ ness manager and seamstress), Mrs. Mae Lesher, Lorna GrayWiley, Morgan Lesher, Katrina Lesher and Sue Matsui, costumes and props

Meadowbrook christian “Guys and Dolls”

Cast worked hard to develop characters

By Kyra Smith-Cullen

ksmithcullen@dailyitem.com

Photos By Robert Inglis/The Daily Item

Top left: Levi Erb and Jayar Rhoades sing in “Guys and Dolls.”

Top right: The cast takes the stage for “Guys and Dolls.”

Above: Ellie Sweigard performs as Adalaide.

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VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

Director Amanda Brosious knew when deciding Meadowbrook Christian School’s 2023 musical that the students would be a good fit for her choice.

“The talented guys — and girls — really lined up with the needs for ‘Guys and Dolls,’” she said. “I thought it would be a great way to showcase what they can do.”

They lived up to her expectations, working hard to memorize their lines and cues despite having to share a rehearsal space.

“We share space with the school and church so it makes rehearsals on stage difficult to come by. Our students only have the final two weeks in the performance space,” Brosious said. “It creates many challenges but I’m always so impressed with the students ability to adapt and overcome this obstacle!”

Brosious said the production was blessed with a great team of technicians who helped them put on a very professional looking show.

Brosious said she knew audiences were in for a great show a few

“The talented guys — and girls — really lined up with the needs for ‘Guys and Dolls.’ I thought it would be a great way to showcase what they can do.”

— Amanda Brosious, director

weeks in when the leads had already begun to memorize their own lines and song. She encouraged the cast to learn their parts early so they would have more time to develop their character.

Brooklynn Weaver, a junior who played Sarah Brown, said trying to fully connect with her character in order to do her absolute best was her biggest challenge.

Her efforts and those of her cast mates paid off as audiences praised the students for their characterization.

In her review, Brouse noted that the students “clearly enjoyed putting on ‘Guys and Dolls.’”

“My favorite moment was when Nicely-Nicely (Keegan Gill) came into the scene with his bread, and Nathan (Jayar Rhodes) would grab the bread and stomp on it, and Nicely would still eat it and it would generate a lot of laughter from the audi-

ence,” said Levi Erb, the 10th-grader who played Sky Masterson.

Gill, a senior, said that was his favorite moment from the live performances.

The cast did its best to help each other throughout rehearsal and production, offering each other advice.

“I think I learned to hone in my own acting skills through helping my fellow cast members with their own skills,” Gill said.

Brosious said the cast has been one of the most wonderful casts she has ever worked with in her 15 years of directing.

“They have been so kind, respectful, loving, drama-free and hardworking! We always have great casts, but this one has been exceptional. The way they have treated each other has been heartwarming as well,” she said. “God’s love really permeated the entire experience this year.”

MUSICAL FEEDBACK Meadowbrook Christian School’s cast of 40 engaged audience members with the classical musical comedy “Guys and Dolls.”

A talented group of males led the show with captivating vocals and funny lines. Junior Jayar Rhodes led the gang of crap shooters as Nathan Detroit. Rhodes’ multifaceted performance showed the audience the character’s sensitivity toward his fiancée, Adelaide, as well as his lighter side when with his buddies.

Miss Adelaide, leader of the Hot Box dancers, was played by senior Ellie Sweigard. Sweigard brought tons of energy to the character who is desperate for marriage.

“Adelaide’s Lament,” in which the character describes the illness that results from a lack of marriage, brought hilarity to the stage.

Almost the complete opposite of Miss Adelaide, Sarah Brown, portrayed by junior Brooklynn Weaver, was a softspoken sergeant of the local mission working to convert sinners to Christianity.

Weaver displayed her acting range in the number “If I Were a Bell.” The number took place in Havana, Cuba, and followed a lengthy, humorous dance in which Sarah Brown unknowingly became intoxicated. Weaver had a lovely soprano voice that suited her character well.

Sophomore Levi Erb played Sarah Brown’s love interest, Sky Masterson. Masterson, a confident and well-respected character, has a softer side when around Brown. Erb portrayed all aspects of this dynamic character.

Other impressive performances included Keegan Gill, as Nicely-Nicely Johnson, Joshua Dugan, as Benny Southstreet and Josiah Baker as Harry the Horse. Gill and Dugan both sang beautifully in their features, including the duet number “Guys and Dolls.” Baker’s dead-pan line readings as Harry the Horse translated well and earned laughter 11

VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

CAST AND CREW

Above: Brooklynn Weaver and Levi Erb sing a duet in “Guys and Dolls.” Top: The cast of “Guys and Dolls” rehearse. from the audience.

“Guys and Dolls” calls for a variety of scenery throughout the show. Meadowbrooks’ set effectively transported the audience from city streets to a beach in Havana, Cuba.

Scenes also took place inside the Hot Box Lounge, the Save-A-Soul Mission and even the sewer. Set pieces were efficiently designed and beautifully detailed.

There was also a wide range of costumes, all of which suited their characters well. However, the costumes worn

by Adelaide and the Dolls in the Hot Box Lounge may have been the best in the show.

Overall, the cast of this show was energetic and enthusiastic, anyone watching could clearly see how much they enjoyed putting on “Guys and Dolls.”

— Anna Wiest

Jayar Rhoades (Nathan Detroit), Ellie Sweigard (Miss Adelaide), Levi Erb (Sky Masterson), Brooklynn Weaver (Sarah Brown), Keegan Gill (Nicely-Nicely Johnson), Joshua Dugan (Benny Southstreet), Josiah Baker (Harry the Horse), Megan Wagner (Lt. Matilda Brannigan), Katrina Koble (Big Julie), Ryan Eager (Master of Ceremonies/Waiter), Giovanni Custodio (Ang the Ox), Megan Reed (The Homeless Woman), Libby Maust (Arlene Abernathy), Macey Feick (General Matilda Cartright), Bella Specht (Agatha), Elliana Peace (Mimi); Dancers: Emma George, Grace Skjoldal, Chloe Miller, Patience Courtney, Arianna Fetzer, Lauren Dugan, Elliana Peace; Mission band: Maya Ask, Ophelia Robel, Hannah Cruz, Nathan Muckel; Townspeople: Lydia Corderman, Annabelle Pierce, Leila Ask; Chris Reed (stage manager); Crew: Rafe Stafford, Anderson Kline, Austin Steck, Mikayla Arner, Louis Gatto and Lydia Wise

NIDD-WEST CrODSPELL

Director trusted cast would pull together under pressure

By Kyra Smith-Cullen ksmithcuUen@dailyitem.com

Photos by Anna Wiest/The Daily Item

Top left: Kyle Boonie and Patrick Wil­ liams perform in Midd-West’s “God­ spell.”

Top right: Midd-West High School stu­ dents practice for the spring musical.

Above: Olivia Boritz rehearses a song.

12 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

When it comes to high school pro­ ductions, musical directors often work with few resources to make their pro­ duction shine within their restraints.

For Midd-West High School Musi­ cal Director Adam Dietz, that means choosing a production with a small cast that really lets each character shine. A musical such as “Godspell.”

“It’s an ensemble-based show that utilizes a smaller group of talent, while still featuring all of the cast members.

It also only requires one very barebones set and no costume changes,” Dietz said. “We're a little low on help right now and with this only being my second production as director, I thought it would be a good fit for us right now.”

He said he also liked the message of the show being all about love, com­ munity and human connection.

“Even though the subject matter is inspired by Scripture, its themes of kindness, mercy and forgiveness are universal and relevant yet today,”

"These kids were fully capable to give it what it takes, but this group works much better under pressure and seems to come alive much more once they have an audience in front of them."

— Adam Dietz, Midd-West director

he said.

Through difficult rehearsals, Dietz said he knew the show had the potential to be great.

“These kids were fully capable to give it what it takes, but this group works much better under pressure and seems to come alive much more once they have an audience in front of them,” he said.

The Daily Item’s reviewer Jerri Brouse agreed.

“It was apparent each one of the ac­ tors on stage went all-in when it came to developing their individual characters

and they managed to bring a little of their own unique personality to their roles,” she said in her review.

She praised the simple stage set up for letting the audience focus on the cast and the hard work they put in.

Dietz said the small size of the pro­ duction puts a different kind of pressure on the cast and crew.“It’s a show for the ages, and one that can be adapted to re­ flect current trends and current events, with fantastic music and a revised score that keeps it fresh and sharp,” he ex­ plained.

See GODSPELL, Page 13

The Midd-West High School cast rehearses for “Godspell.”

nUSICDL fEEDBRCII If ever the term “small but mighty” could apply to a situation, It certainly applies to the cast of “Godspell” at Midd-West High School. With just 13 members of the cast, each one was tasked with carrying an equal share of the 1971 musical about Jesus and his apostles.

The central themes throughout “Godspell” are those of forgiveness, mercy, kindness and community.

The cast of this show managed to organically generate those emotions in the audience — who had to have left the showing feeling better than they did when they arrived.

Part of that came in the form of the music, which Included an impressive show of “Learn Your Lessons Well” led by Eliana Hartley (who had a bold, powerful voice one wouldn’t expect to come out of a petite high school girl). Elisa Trout­ man’s “Bless the Lord” was also a standout and Kaitlyn Jefferys gave

off serious Hollywood vibes with “Turn Back, O Man.” It was apparent each one of the actors on stage went all-in when It came to developing their individual characters and they managed to bring a little of their own unique personality to their roles.

There were unexpected laughs from time to time throughout the show, including modern day refer­ ences to pop tarts and humming the theme to Jeopardy, and regardless of whether or not stories of the Bible are your cup of tea, it was hard not to find yourself smiling In admiration for the obvious hard work these kids put In. They left It all on the stage.

The stage set up was practical and simple which Is exactly as It should be — keeping the focus on the cast. Kudos to the pit and all the backstage/behind the scenes work­ ers as well — we all know none of It happens without them.

—

13 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

Jerri Brouse

Director trusted cast would pull together under pressure GODSPELL, from Page 12 “With a show this size it’s impera­ tive that everyone pulls their own weight. When one person doesn’t show up to rehearsal it leaves a huge gap. I’ve always told my students that every part, despite the number of lines, is important to the story and vitality of the show,” he said. “But when crunch time approaches, I’ve seen this group rally together and help each other in a very healthy, support­ ive, and engaging way that reassures me that we’re doing something right.”

The show’s narrative also chal­ lenges actors as it is more like a se­ ries of scenes instead of continuous plot line.

“So, it’s a lot of bouncing around and quickly shifting gears in prepara­ tion to present the next vignette, or in this case, the next parable. With that said, it took a while for the students to adjust to constantly having to refocus

CnST HMD CREW Kyle Boonie, Patrick Williams, Nathaniel Leltzel, Summer Martin, Lana Kratzer, Skyylar Epley, Elisa Troutman, Kaitlyn Jefferys, Eliana Hartley, Olivia Boritz, Matthew Hunsberger, Rebekah Osgood, Elliot Crabb; Crew: Katie Campbell, Katie Womer, Kylle Herrold, Damon Lullo, Simon Moyer

their efforts and remembering which scene or “schtick” set-up/followed each song,” he said.

Despite this, Dietz said he thinks any thespian should be involved with a production of “Godspell” at least once in their careers.

itirruNouRG Beauty and the Beast’

Musical let students, first-time director learn from each other

By Kyra Smith-Cullen ksmithcullen@dailyitem.com

Photos by Anna Wiest/The Daily Item

Top left: Chloee Gemberiing and Kyra Zechman rehearse for Mifflinburg’s “Beauty and the Beast.” Top right: The students rehearse ahead of final pro­ ductions. Above: Logan Hackenberg performs.

14 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

When Meghan Nardella took over as musical director at Mifflinburg Area High School, she said she had never worn so many hats in a musical production.

“My prior experience with col­ lege, community, and professional theatre companies had solely been with teaching the vocal and instru­ mental music, so stepping into the role as head director and producer was a huge challenge for me,” Nardella said.

For her first musical, she said she wanted to do a big show that would showcase the school’s ensemble and draw a lot of new audience members to the program — “Beauty and The Beast” was the perfect musical to let the students’ talents shine.

It also gave her the opportunity to help the students as much as they helped her.

“The students exhibited so much grace and patience with every-

thing this year, and I learned so much from them because of it. It is hard enough navigating changes when there is a new teacher, but that is compounded when it is a new teacher fresh out of col­ lege,” she said. “We certainly had our bumps in the road that could happen with any production, but I was inspired by the resilience and perseverance from our wonderful students.”

Her work with the students helped them embrace their charac­ ters and add dimension to roles — whether it was offering performers advice to connect to the audience or reminding crewmembers like Lighting Chief/Board Operator Rowan Shoemaker, a 12th-grader, that she trusted him and everyone else in the production.

For some students, the biggest challenge of the production was finding ways to connect with their characters.

“I think the most challenging moment for me leading up to the show was truly figuring out my

purpose as Lumiere,” said Evan Stimmel, the senior who played the candlestick Lumiere. “Sure, you could always just be a character on a stage and play that character, but for me, it’s the deeper meaning that I try to strive for, and that was my hardest challenge trying to find that.”

The students worked hard on their singing and dancing, master­ ing smaller, more intimate dance numbers like the waltz between Kyra Zechman as Belle and Mat­ thew Blake as the Beast where Zechman said she struggled with the untraditional 3/4 timing and stepped on Blake's feet several times.

For every person involved, “Beauty and The Beast” presented an opportunity to learn and grow.

“I have learned so much af­ ter this first year, and I am very excited to continue learning more about theater and all of the minute details that there is to worry about during my time in this position,” said Nardella.

CAST HID CREW

HUSICHL fEEOBRCIi Energetic, entertaining and exciting are all words that could be used to describe the opening night performance of the Mifflinburg Area High School’s spring musical, “Beauty and the Beast.”

Taking on this classic Disney musical had to be a chal­ lenge on many levels — the costumes, the stage, the props, the music — but the cast, crew, orchestra and everyone involved in this year’s production rose to that challenge, and nailed it.

Kyra Zechman as Belle was enchanting in both her plain, blue everyday dress and her golden ball gown, and her voice (both spoken and singing) was exactly what you’d expect from a real Disney princess. Matthew Blake did a great job in showcasing two-sides to the Beast — the angry, demanding, scary side and later, a kinder and gentler side.

Teeanna Fogle (Mrs. Potts) did a fantastic job of bringing a motherly-feel to her role as Chip’s mom and Ally Shaffer’s character, Babette, drew lots of laughter from the audi­ ence. Chloee Gemberling’s portrayal of “Madame” had just the right amount of sass.

It would be easy to go on and on about each student’s individual performance, but suffice it to say, every single person on stage made it look easy — the songs, the danc­ es — all of it. And of course the songs wouldn’t be nearly as entertaining if it weren’t for the amazing pit orchestra bringing them to life. The scenery and costumes were both very nicely done (the woods and the coyotes were espe­ cially eerie, just the way they should be).

The audience was engaged throughout the show, tap­ ping along to songs like “Gaston” and “Human Again,” but

15 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

Above: The Mifflinburg Area High School cast and mu­ sicians rehearse “Beauty and the Beast.” Top: Mat­ thew Blake and Kyra Zechman starred as the Beast and Belle. the show’s biggest hit for the evening was “Be Our Guest.”

In an effort to create a little Disney magic, guests could buy “enchanted roses” in the lobby prior to the show and, during certain parts of the show when the rose on stage lit up, audience members were invited to light their roses as well.

— Jerri Brouse

Kyra Zechman (Belle), Matthew Blake (Beast), Jacob Post (Maurice), Levi Heintzelman (Gaston), Charlie Wetzel (Lefou), Evan Stimmel (Lumiere), Logan Hackenberg (Cogsworth), Teeanna Fogle (Mrs. Potts), Sarah Criswell (Chip), Chloee Gemberling (Madame), Ally Shaf­ fer (Babette), Ethan Allen (Monsieur D’Arque), Dyllon Shay (Narrator), David Shoemaker (Young Prince), Kyra Mattison (Enchant­ ress); Les Filles De La Ville: Marissa Allen, Cassie Ebersole, Natalie Harvey, Alyson Houseknecht, Ad­ elaide Miller, Hope Swarey; Beauty and the Beast ensemble: Katie Sau­ ers (Shepherd), Summer Showers (Marie), James Mabus (Tavern Master), Kira Kopfinger (Laundry Lady), Dillon Walter-Ramer (Baker), Emma Hyder (Milk­ maid), McKenna Walter (Flower Seller), Reyna Kirick (Sausage Curl Lady), Sarah Davis (Candle Mak­ er), Elizabeth Bierly (Hat Seller), Clayton Plank (Book Seller); Cronies: Reese Conklin, Ajaxx Gearhart, Ryan Sauers; Villagers and enchanted objects: Kisa Elliot, Kambria Kline, Molly Steele, Ava Stephens; Front of House/Marketing: Elliot Miller, Kaleb Sauers; Hair/Makeup: Annika Kline­ felter, Jocelynn Little, Zane Mitch, Rosalinda Susan; Lighting crew: Lyn Bingaman (production stage manager), James Hamil­ ton, Kassity Lamey, Emily Pfirman, Olivia Schenck, Rowan Shoemaker, Kaylee Swartzlander; Sound crew: Jackson Beitz, Joseph Faust, Al­ exander Pirraglia, Hayden Reiff, Collin Tressler; Stage/ Building crew: Morgan Traver (assistant stage manager), Chloe Albright, James Hamilton, Kadyn Long, Kirsten Kuhns, Kylie Mowery, Gareth Sanders; Orchestra: Cassidy McClintock (clarinet)

CREATING H CONNECTION BEFORE THE BIG SHOW These days, almost everybody is on social media — Scrolling through TikToks or Facebook posts. The popularity of those platforms make them a valuable tool for drama departments.

But beyond keeping the lo­ cal community updated, social media can be used to create con­ nections between audiences and performers.

In December, shortly after Dan­ ville students began rehearsing for “The Addams Family,” director Aubyn Johnson took advantage of the drama department’s Facebook to start sharing rehearsal footage.

“As a first time director at a school where I had no connec­ tions prior to being hired for the position, I felt that it was im­ portant to show our audiences exactly what they should expect to see for our performance,” he said. “I definitely think that the promo pictures and sharing mo­ ments from our rehearsals helped to spread the word and make our show one that people wanted to see.”

As the show approached, the Facebook posts increased.

A daily countdown, cast photo shoots, ticket giveaways and more. The page’s followers were constantly interacting, letting the students know how eager they were to see the final product.

Photos by Anna Wiest/The Daily Item

Shikellamy High School’s cast rehearse for “Tuck Everlasting

Audiences add to magic for Valley student performers

Photo by Kyle Huggins via The Danville Drama Facebook page

By Kyra Smith-Cullen ksmithcullen@dailyitem.com

There’s a difference between re­ hearsing and performing.

Several Valley musical directors and actors said that in the aftermath of the shows.

In both situations, actors are inhabiting a character, breaking into song and dance spontaneously — not something that’s likely to happen in day-to-day life. But ask any thespian and they’ll tell you: It’s different in front of an audience.

“The audience involvement in a live performance is a real gamechanger for the students on stage,” said Elizabeth Snow, Warrior Run High School musical director. “We rehearse all the scenes and songs and get used to no response, but when actual people are sitting in the seats and laugh at the jokes it’s really 16 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

"If was very exciting to feel the audience's energy after many rehearsals of running the show for a mostly empty house."

— Jonah Carney, from Lewisburg Area High School's "Guys and Dolls" gratifying.”

The long hours of reading lines, the sore muscles from memorizing dance steps. When there’s somebody to direct this at, it completes the circuit of performance. The students aren’t doing it for themselves, though they definitely benefit as well. They’re doing it for the faces in the crowd staring up at them, seeing a show for the first time or seeing a favorite production done by a new cast.

“I loved hearing the laughs and

interaction from the audience,” said Jonah Carney, the senior who played Sky Masterson in “Guys and Dolls” by Lewisburg Area High School. “It was very exciting to feel the audience’s en­ ergy after many rehearsals of running the show for a mostly empty house.”

The energy an audience provides is a vital one. For some actors, a single viewer can be a focal point — a See AUDIENCES, Page 17

The Midd-West High School cast performs “Godspell.”

Audiences add to magic for Valley student performers AUDIENCES, from Page 16 connection they can use to add emotion and dimen­ sion to their role, like how Mifflinburg Area Musical Director Meghan Nardella directed Teanna Fogle for the school’s production of “Beauty and the Beast.” Or the audience’s reactions can provide the jolt needed to carry on through high-energy numbers. “ft means a lot when they look out into the audito­ rium and see a big crowd of people. It gives them the energy to perform even better,” said Brandon Mowery, who directed Mount Carmel’s “Mamma Mia!” While the main goal of the shows’ directors is to teach the students new skills and help them grow as performers, part of that payout comes from watching them put hours of rehearsals into use. It’s why it’s so important to support local high school productions — whether they be the spring musicals or at another time of the year.

“We had a recruitment event with the Lewisburg choirs yesterday and I heard multiple high school students say ‘Join the musical, it is the best part of my high school experience.’ I think that statement is im­ portant for people to hear,” said Lewisburg Area Mu­ sical Director Sarah Tiede. “The continued support of music programs in your area really impacts kids.

Make it a date night to go see local shows. Laugh loudly, and clap vigorously. Help students create posi­ tive memories and grow their confidence.”

117 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

iking the audience n pit or the mie At Mifflinburg Area High School, some audi­ ence members weren’t just there to watch “Beauty and the Beast” — they were there to be a part of it.

Lyn Bingaman, the senior who served as stage manager on the production, said her favorite moment during the performances were seeing all the little girls with their Belle dresses walking around. But, as part of a fundraiser for the theater program and a way to involve the audiences, people could purchase enchanted roses that would light up and help the “magic” as The Beast, Matthew Blake, transformed back into the prince.

The directors stumbled on the idea for it while searching for another prop.

“We knew this show would bring in a lot of younger children, and we wanted to include them In the magic,” director Meghan Nardella said.

Because she was in the pit during perfor­ mances, Nardella has only ever seen the full effect through recordings of the show, but she could catch glimpses of it out of the corner of her eye.

“Some of my favorite moments were watch­ ing the small children and families sitting right behind me through my peripheral vision,” she said. “Seeing their faces light up with the roses felt so magical, and it was wonderful to see both

Jacob Post as Maurice and Kyra Zechman as Belle perform in Mifflinburg Area High School’s “Beauty and the Beast.” those who were young and young at heart be part of the magic.”

For the performers, it was a memorable sight.

“My favorite moment in the live show was dur­ ing the transformation scene when the Beast is transforming back into the Prince. The Enchant­ ress came out and waved her magic rose and prompted the kids to do the same,” said Kyra Zechman, the 10th-grader who played Belle. “I angled myself just so I could watch the audi­ ence. The whole auditorium was lit up with the magic roses, and it was so cool to see.”

— Kyra Smith-Cullen

Chicago: Teen Edition'

Show gave entire cast chance to shine

By Kyra Smith-Cullen ksmithcullen@dailyitem.com

Photos by Robert Inglis/The Daily Item

Top left: Mia Sera leads the cast of “Chi­ cago: Teen Edition.”

Top right: Ely Reitz and ensemble per­ form a number.

Above: Chloe Russell sings a song with piano accompaniment.

18 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

Milton Area High School Drama Club director Stephen Aguirre knew he had a strong cast of performers when deciding the spring musical, “Chicago: Teen Edition.”

“1 knew we had a strong group that would be eager to perform a show like this. There’s lots of room for a large boys and girls ensemble that get to all have their moments to shine,” he said.

Aguirre said he thinks local high schools shy away from a show like “Chicago” because of its content — the typical production features vulgar language and sexual references.

“The Teen Edition from Concord Theatricals really gives you a clean, doable script. No foul language, all of the innuendo is muted or stricken completely. It is a great show for high schools to perform,” he said.

Aguirre also wanted to expose students to a new style of dance after last year’s production of “Mamma Mia!which featured classic disco moves. “Chicago” includes challeng­ ing dance numbers and choreography.

Students rehearse a scene from “Chicago.”

“Our choreographer, Katie Conk­ lin, is such a wonderful teacher and role model, and she challenged our kids with the dance moves in the best way,” Aguirre said. “It certainly was not an easy show, dance-wise, but it was exactly the kind of theater experience I wanted our students to have — a dance show, with this kind of Fosse-style choreography, taught

by Katie, who is just so talented.”

The demands challenged even Mil­ ton’s veteran musical performers.

“The hardest part of this year’s musical was definitely the dancing,” said Ely Reitz, a junior who played lawyer Billy Flynn.

Senior Chloe Russell, who played Roxie Hart, said she had never con­ sidered herself to be a dancer before “Chicago,” but she had to learn to be one. By the time rehearsals were finished, she was excited to show her skills.

See CHICAGO, Page 19

Show gave entire cast a chance to shine CHICAGO, from Page 18 “I was very excited for the audi­ ence to see the choreography for the song ‘Roxie,’” she said. “It was a very challenging number to learn and there were lots of really cool lifts that I got to be a part of while I was singing.”

Mia Sera, a 12th-grader, said she struggled with confidence in her role as Velma Kelly.

“Velma’s character is huge with her choreography and I was always scared to make it too big,” she said, noting that she got better during tech week rehearsals and nightly performances.

The entire cast’s efforts payed off during the live production, garner­ ing praise for the group numbers' energy and synchronicity.

Also lauded was the black and white motif and lighting design that helped transport audiences into the world of “Chicago.”

“1 think when audiences see Chicago, they usually expect a certain motif, and we wanted to come in with a traditional approach to the musical, since this area hadn’t ever seen a high school perform the show,” Aguirre said.

He credited 9th-grade student Olivia Maynard with the lighting success, noting that she built her own ideas and personality into the directions he gave. He said he was thrilled with her work during the “Cell Block Tango” number, where a red backlit stage and single spotlight illuminated the murderous women and their silent victims.

Aguirre said Maynard’s work also helped him and the cast realize how good the show could be.

“There is always that moment in rehearsal where the show ‘clicks,’ especially for the actors. Sometimes it’s weeks before the performance, sometimes it’s the day before open­ ing night,” he said. “For this show, it was probably at the beginning of our tech week, once we added the lights, mics and sound — you can always hear the excitement in the kids when they see a really cool lighting design for a particular scene, etc.”

Delaney Bottorf and ensemble perform “Cell Block Tango.”

19 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

nusicm rccoBflCH The students of the Milton Area High School, under the direction of Steve Aguirre, are to be congratulated on their stylish, bold production of Kander and Ebb’s “Chicago” at Milton High School. With a chic, black and white color motif, augmented by the “razzle dazzle” of a hyper-colorful lighting design at just the right moments, this show featured some very strong young singers and actors tackling a less-common show with some mature themes.

Chicago first opened in 1975 and pri­ marily tells a story of two women, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, both accused of murder and seeking to use that fame to increase their celebrity status as entertainers in the 1920s jazz age. This production featured senior Chloe Rus­ sell as Roxie, and juniors Mia Sera and Ely Reitz as Velma and their lawyer Billy Flynn, respectively, all of whom gave impressive performances all around, supported by a strong ensemble cast of over 30 students. Also featured in the show were juniors Carley Braham as “Mama” Morton and Rafael Martinez II as Roxie’s husband, Amos, both of whom shone brightly in the spotlight

CAST ID CREW

during their crowd-pleasing solos, “When You’re Good to Mama” and “Mr. Cellophane.”

With Brandy Aguirre providing music direction and Katie Conklin choreo­ graphing, the many group numbers in this show were a real joy to watch and listen to. The show’s iconic, Bob Fosseinspired opening number, “And All That Jazz” got the show off to a great start, and other big production numbers like “Razzle Dazzle” really showed off the talents and coordination of this whole cast. Other familiar songs like “Cell Block Tango” featured fewer students (in that case, only six of the women in the cast), but the seamless choreogra­ phy and stylish musicality, supported by a high-caliber lighting design by freshman Olivia Maynard and Patrick Maynard, really showcased the abilities of the group. One final number that re­ ally stood out was “They Both Reached For the Gun,” where Roxie acted as Billy’s ventriloquism puppet, and thanks to the ensemble as well as impeccable and well-rehearsed synchronized timing of Roxie and Billy, this number was very impressive. A hearty congratulations all around to this cast and crew!

—

Jove Graham

Mia Sera (Velma Kelley), Chloe Russell (Roxie Hart), Ely Reitz (Billy Flynn), Rafael Martinez II (Amos Hart), Car­ ley Braham (Matron “Mama” Morton), Levi Shamblen (Mary Sunshine), Zander Tallent (Fred Casely), Sean Nolder (Sergeant Fogarty), Jillian Latchford (Liz “Pop”/ ensemble), Delaney Bot­ torf (Annie “Six’Vensemble), Fallon Waughen (June “Squish”/ensemble), Mad­ eline Watkins (Hunyak “Uh Uh’Vensemble), Amaya Knelly (Mona “Lipschitz’Vensemble), Piper Wygal, Jonny Austinson-Loss, Colby Noll, Mackenzie Schutt, Sebas­ tian Kneasel, Nicholas Fleck, Carlie Dauberman, Miles Brown, Camryn Hoover, Zander Tallent, Elias Franciscus, Thomas McCaffrey, Zach Murray, Sean Nolder, Cadence Scholl, Makenna Wallace, Ava Beaver, Ella Swanger, Riley Morgan, Lainey S. Snyder, Joelle Hoover

nOUNT CDRttCL “M amma M iai ”

Director wanted a brighter musical

By Kyra Smith-Cullen ksmithcullen@dailyitem.com

Photos by Robert Inglis/The Daily Item

Top left: Broderick Strickland rehearses for Mount Carmel’s “Mamma Mia!” Top right: Dominick Tamborelli, Strick­ land, Julia Pitcavage and Dyllan Connell sing together during practice.

Above: Hannah Yucha sings.

20 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

Mount Carmel Area High School musical director Brandon Mowery wanted to go a lighter route for this year’s musical — in several ways.

“I wanted to do ‘Mamma Mia!’ based on the musicals we’ve done recently. The last few have had dark storylines or had dark appearances on stage,” he said of 2022’s “The Addams Family,” 2021’s “Little Shop of Horrors,” and “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” in 2020.

“I wanted something that was going to be lighter, both visually and dramatically,” he continued.

The fun ABBA jukebox musical was perfect for that, especially since it ended on a number Mowery couldn’t wait for audiences to see.

“The dance montage at the end of the show (Mamma Mia!, Dancing Queen, Waterloo) is my favorite part of the show. They are three songs that are a lot of fun and they have really great choreography” he said. “It’s the cherry on the top of a really awesome show.”

Julia Pitcavage, the senior who

portrayed Sophia Sheridan, said “do­ ing the eight minutes of dancing and singing” at the end was her favorite part of the live production.

As Jove Graham noted in his review for The Daily Item, the show gave the cast plenty of opportunities to show off their choreography skills with high-energy numbers.

With a 25-person cast, some of which were students at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School, there were often a lot of bodies on the stage but Mowery said one of the biggest chal­ lenges of the show was finding a way to continue that same level of partici­ pation when not all of the performers were visible.

"Every song in the show had ensemble singing and when they were not on stage, they had to sing into mi­ crophones backstage,” he said. “There were a few problems at first with vol­ ume and sound delay to the back, but we discussed several different ways to be successful and with more practice it got much easier for the students. I was pleased with the end result.”

See MAMMA MIA!, Page 21

COST HMD CREW Hannah Yucha (Donna Sheri­ dan), Julia Pitcavage (Sophie Sheridan), Dyllan Connell (Sam Carmichael), Dominick Tamborelli (Bill Austin), Brod­ erick Strickland (Harry Bright), Lenny Machesic (Sky), Adriann Rodriguez (Tanya), Gabby McGinley (Rosie), Hanna Zimmerman (Alie), Rebecka Morales (Lisa), Caleb Gensemer (Pepper), Alexys O’Donnell (Eddie); Ensemble: Sugar Bolam, Geoffery Catino, Kaitlyn Fernandez, Loreileii Guise, Nevaeh Katalinas, Jiliian Kerstetter, Kelli Lawton, Mario Ouardi, Jordan Pitcavage, Zoe Siko, Piper Schucker, Madison Smith, Francesca Ventilli; Crew: Samantha Szatny, Alyssa Trefsger, Ava Skavery, Corey Carl, Isabella Jakuc, Landon Musser, Lucas Lubinski, Lucas Edmondson

tiusicm FEEDDIO

Julia Pitcavage, center, Hanna Zimmerman and Rebecka Morales sing “Honey, Honey.”

Director wanted a brighter musical MAMMA MIA!, from Page 20 As with many young performers, several members of the cast said they had doubts about their abilities.

“The most challenging element leading up to the show was believing in myself and pushing through my fears to put on a good show,” said Hannah Yucha, a senior who made her Mount Carmel musical debut as Donna Sheridan.

Mowery’s confidence in his cast wasn’t shaken.

“There were several times when I thought to myself ‘I’m not worried about this thing’ or ‘I’m not worried about that song.’ I think it was the absence of concern that led me to think it was going to be a good run,” he said.

But one moment stuck out to him as to when he realized how good the show was go­ ing to be.

“During one of our vocal rehearsals, the cast was singing S.O.S. and the harmonies were so clear and so strong,” Mowery said.

“That was the moment I knew we had some­ thing that could be really special as long as they could translate it to the stage. They did a great job with it.”

The cast of “Mamma Mia!” performs.

The students of the Mount Carmel Area High School Music Department, under the direction and music direc­ tion of Brandon Mowery, had the auditorium rocking as they presented “Mamma Mia!” at Mount Carmel Area High School. With an Impressive twostory set, fun costumes, and a grooving nine-piece band backing up their strong vocalists, this production was a real treat that had the audience up on their feet dancing.

“Mamma Mia!,” the jukebox musical based around the songs of the Swed­ ish pop group ABBA, tells the story of young bride-to-be Sophie and her single mother, Donna, who was lead singer for a 1970s pop group and runs a taverna on a beautiful Greek Isle.

When Sophie finds her mother’s diary and discovers three men who could be her father, she invites them all to the wedding, setting the stage for plenty of music and misunderstandings.

This production featured a huge en­ semble cast, centered around seniors Juila Pitcavage and Hannah Yucha, playing Sophie and Donna, respec­ tively. Other supporting cast members included “the three dads” (Sam, Bill and Harry), played by Dylan Connell, Dominick Tamborelll, and Broderick Strickland, and Donna’s best friends and backup singers Tanya and Rosie, played by Adriann Rodriguez and Gabrielle McGlnley.

The Greek Island set design by Keith Fourspring and David McFee, and the breezy, vacation-inspired costumes

by Jennifer Bates and Ellena Adams added just the right touches to give the audience a taste of summertime and sunshine. Congratulations also to the Impressive group choreography

by Allison Hoke Mowery that showed off these students’ dancing talents as well as their singing. The trio of Yucha, Rodriguez and McGinley (sometimes in their matching jumpsuits) provided some of the most iconic and crowdpleasing moments, including classic numbers like “Dancing Queen” and “Super Trouper.” The show was also strong with its many popular ABBA numbers reimagined as duets be­ tween the lead performers (Pitcavage and Connell on “S.O.S.,” McGinley and Tamborelli on “Take a Chance On Me”), as well as its high-spirited group numbers such as “Does Your Mother Know?” and “Gimme, Gimme, Gimme.”

Kudos all around to the cast and crew of “Mamma Mia!” for a truly entertaining show!

—

21 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

Jove Graham

SCLINSGRDYE The Little Mermaid'

Musical meant to be a way to learn

By Kyra Smith-Cullen ksmithcullen@dailyitem.com

Photos by Robert Inglis/The Daily Item

Top left: Hailey Beaver sings in Selinsgrove’s “The Little Mermaid.”

Top right: Hailey Beaver, Austin Imhoof, Gavin Hare and Leah Kloostra rehearse.

Above: Austin Imhoof performs.

22 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

Director Rachel Ulsh saw learn­ ing potential when it came time to select the spring musical for Selinsgrove Area High School.

While it is based off of a clas­ sic Disney movie that many have seen, she said she and her musi­ cal partner Jay Muller chose “The Little Mermaid” because it includes differences from the film and ad­ ditional songs that would give her performers the trifecta of choreog­ raphy, acting and singing — and the production team would have the experience of learning to give top notch lighting, sound, set building and design and more.

“The performances of the show are an amazing accomplishment that we love sharing with the com­ munity, but the main goal is to provide an educational atmosphere and provide a wonderful journey of learning and growth,” Ulsh said.

“This show provided those things.”

Such a visual ly-heavy production required a lot of elements from both the cast and crew, whether it was costumes to help identify the dis­

Gavin Hare and the Mersisters Maddy Bucher, Elise Zimmer­ man, Jillian Foss, Kassandra Bitting, Bella Kadryna and Amelia Heimbach rehearse. tinctive — and in several cases not human — cast of characters or the lighting and design elements that transformed the set from an under­ water kingdom to one on land.

“The most challenging element leading up to the show was the scene changes,” said Elliot Muller, a junior who played the crab Sebastian in the show. “With so many set pieces and special effects, the crew and the cast had to work hard to get the timing right during instrumental pieces of music during the performances.”

One crucial piece of equipment

especially took a lot of practice to use — a flying system that allowed several cast members to swim in the air.

“I think the biggest challenge was fitting everything on the stage with over 60 people in the cast and crew and incorporating the fly sys­ tem with the students,” Ulsh said.

“It took an entire day of training to fly the students safely and then took the week before the show to fine tune the flying.”

See MERMAID, Page 23

COST DID CREW

Hailey Beaver and Elliot Muller rehearse a scene from “The Little Mermaid.”

Musical was meant to be a way to learn MERMAID, from Page 22 Hailey Beaver, the lOth-grader who portrayed Ariel, said being able to fly was her favorite part of the live perfor­ mances. It was a technique that stuck out to audiences.

“Ariel, Prince Eric and Sebastian all flew, or rather, swam to enhance the atmosphere of life under water.

Scuttle also took off in the air,” said The Daily Item reviewer Anna Wiest.

“This effect was just one more aspect that left kids watching in awe.”

For Leah Kloostra, the senior who played Ariel’s seagull friend Scuttle, being able to see the audience re­ act to things the cast and crew had worked hard on — like particular lines rehearsed countless times — were her favorite parts of the live performances.

“When Scuttle is first introduced, he is trying to make a trade with Ariel: her Dinglehopper (a fork) for his Snarfblatt (a pipe). When he says that it is an instrument, and Flounder asks if it makes music, he says ‘Sure thing, kid, why I ain’t just blowin’ smoke,”’ Kloostra said. “I worked hard on that particular line and hearing the audi­ ence laugh filled me with joy.”

23 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

HUSICDL rCCDDDCH The Selinsgrove Area High School Musical Department transported audi­ ences “under the sea” with their beauti­ ful production of The Little Mermaid.

Everything about this show, including, but not limited to, the cast, costumes, set and special effects, was delightfully true to the beloved Disney classic.

Sophomore Hailey Beaver took on the difficult task of portraying the sought after red-headed mermaid, Ariel. Beaver’s voice was stunning, even when she was flying several feet above the stage. Similarly, junior Austin Imhoof, as Prince Eric, had a stellar voice and was every little girls’ dream as he played this romantic role.

Senior Corrine Beaver belted out Ursula’s vocally demanding numbers, including “Daddy’s Little Angel” and “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” and acted just as villainous as one would expect.

Junior Elliot Muller demanded the audience’s attention every time he stepped foot on stage. Muller took on the difficult task of leading well-known numbers like “Under the Sea” and “Kiss the Girl,” and he did not disap­ point.

As a whole, the cast was vocally outstanding. From Ariel’s “Part of Your World” to one-liners in big, ensemble numbers, each and every solo was beautifully sung. Also in its entirety, the ensemble kept the energy up in terms

of choreography.

Generally speaking, the costumes were bright, and colorful. Certain characters’ looks stood out as the costumes went above and beyond.

Sebastian’s red suit and large claws truly made him into the crustacean.

Scuttle not only wore a costume with the appearance of feathers, but was also done up in bird-like makeup. Per­ haps the most impressive costume was worn by Ursula. Everything about the villain’s look was big, from the tentacles to the wig.

Several set pieces moved on and off the stage to transport audiences to various settings, some below sea level and others above. The stage crew of 13 seamlessly moved set pieces as needed and was key to the show’s success.

Multiple cast members flew several feet above the stage. Ariel, Prince Eric, and Sebastian all flew or rather, swam, to enhance the atmosphere of life under water. Scuttle also took off in the air. This effect was just one more aspect that left kids watching in awe.

This production of “The Little Mer­ maid” had children beaming and adults feeling like kids again. You couldn’t help but smile during Selinsgrove Area High School’s phenomenal take on the familiar tale.

— Anna Wiest

Hailey Beaver (Ariel), Austin Imhoof (Prince Eric), Corinne Beaver (Ursula), Elliot Muller (Sebastian), Gavin Hare (Flounder), Leah Kloostra (Scuttle), Julian Hummel (King Triton); Multiple roles: Aubryana Zettlemoyer (Flotsam, Chef), Emma Herrold (Jetsam, Chef), Christopher Fishbein (Grimsby), Nathan Meckley (Chef Louis), Maddy Bucher (Aquata), Elise Zimmerman (Andrina), Jillian Foss (Arista), Kassandra Bitting (Atina), Bella Kadryna (Adella), Ame­ lia Heimbach (Allana), Tylil Bey (Windward), Troy Solowy (Leeward), Lomond Rogers, Jacob Molina, Michael Andretta, Joey Gonzalez, Cassie Fritz, Riley Abrahims, Brienna Ulp, Au­ drey Bucher, Sophia Lybarger, Olivia Paladino, Miah Bassler, Shakiya Stapleton, Abagail Wat­ kins, Na Brown, Violet Hummel, Mary Moyer, Taylor Brown, Alexis Spade, Lynley Burke, Elektra Delawder, Aliison Drum, Julia Kline, Lilly Klink, Hannah Paulhamus,Natalya Pryor, Alyssa Short, Addyson Smith, Camila Veliz, Jazmyne Walters, Leah Wright, Nicole Webster; Stage Crew: Hendrix Corbin, Nora Klinger, Eman Zain, Ally Harman, Paige Fanning, Morgan Good, Lucas Matthews, Kelsey Persons, Cole Orner, Abby Mangels, Vanessa Slavishak, John Ke, Thomas Coopwood; Lighting: Luke Hackenberger; Pit: Andon Kloostra (percussion), Zachary Martin (bass clarinet), Dylan Arnold (bass), McKenna Ulery (French horn

SlffltlOIIIN “S weeney T odd ,

the D emon B arber of F leet S treet ”

Sondheim’s music challenged cast

By Kyra Smith-Cullen ksmithcullen@dailyitem.com

Photos by Robert Inglis/The Daily Item

Top left: Samantha Stancavage re­ hearses for Shamokin’s “Sweeney Todd.”

Top right: The cast performs a number.

Above: Alaina Glowatski sings on Sham­ okin’s two-story set.

24 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

A production about a homicidal and vengeful barber might not be a musical that immediately comes to mind as a “must-perform” show, but for Shamokin Area High School Musical Director Kevin Styer, it was.

And so, the time was right for “Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street: School Edition.”

“I just needed to find the right time and the right students. We look at what students we have from the previous shows and who would be returning and decide what would be the best show for that potential group,” Styer said.

“Sweeney challenges our students and gives them an opportunity to expand their acting skills.”

The musical, written by Ste­ phen Sondheim, was a difficult undertaking for the cast and crew, because of a vocally challenging score.

“The music itself is not a typi­ cal score for high school students.

We had to spend several rehears­

als working on the musical at the beginning,” Styer said. “Also, with the music, there were many timing issues that had to be worked out.”

Owen Amato, the 1 lth-grader who played the antagonist Judge Turpin, said the counting for each song was difficult for him to master in rehearsal — especially for the “Pirelli’s Miracle Elixir” number, which combined compli­ cated notes and counting.

Not only is the timing com­ plex, but songs pushed singers to challenging vocal ranges. Junior Alaina Glowatski, who played Johanna, said “Kiss Me Part Two” was a difficult number to master because there were two different melodies and a wide vocal range involved. “(Epiphany) is the number where I do scream and that really hurt my vocals for the rest of the show, but I got through it and everything was a-OK,” said Jacob Erdman, the junior who played the title charac­ ter of Sweeney Todd.

He said Styer pushed him to really become the character he played and to really embody ev­

erything about Sweeney in all his ways and mannerisms.

Most of the students credited Styer and his wife, Sharon Styer, with helping them achieve the nec­ essary level of complexity.

Also difficult was the set design.

For the production, Dan Shuman and Ken Kuznicki built a two-story barbershop/pie shop that rotated 360 degrees to show the interior and exterior of the central loca­ tions — a feature that garnered much praise from The Daily Item’s reviewer Jove Graham.

“The creation of the set took some time to create. It was not until the week before the show that we started using the barber chair,” Kevin Styer said, referring to the stage mechanism that drops actors from the second story of the set. “It takes time to create the magic.”

But he wouldn’t reverse his deci­ sion to do “Sweeney Todd,” given the chance.

“Despite the difficulty of the show, it was an incredible experi­ ence and a success,” he said. “The response from the community was overwhelming.”

Jacob Erdman raises his blade as Sweeney Todd while Owan Amato, playing Judge Turpin, sits in his barber chair.

MM. FEEDBACK The students of the Shamokin Area High School, under the direction of Kevin Styer, put on a stylish and spectacular production of “Sweeney Todd, The Demon Barber of Fleet Street: School Edition” at Shamokin Area High School. With dra­ matic lighting and fog effects, a giant rotating set, and evocative period costumes, this production was an impressive and polished presentation of a complex classic.

Sweeney Todd, with music and lyrics by Ste­ phen Sondheim, opened on Broadway in 1979 and tells the story of a barber who returns to London seeking revenge on those who wrongly imprisoned him decades ago. Restarting his bar­ bershop, he kills his customers and sends them to a partner-in-crime, Mrs. Lovett, who bakes them into meat pies until their scheme unravels and ends in tragedy for all. The cast was led by the voices and acting talents of junior Jacob Erdman as Sweeney and senior Samantha Stancavage as Mrs. Lovett in the two lead roles originated by Len Cariou and Angela Lansbury. There were many other standout supporting characters as well, including the young lovers Anthony and Johanna,

COST UNO CREW

played by senior Ethan Kauffman and junior Alaina Glowatski, as well as a large and impressive en­ semble of over 20 students.

The centerpiece of the set, constructed by Dan Shuman and Ken Kuznicki, was an amazing two-story barbershop/pie shop that fully rotated to show both interior and exteriors of these two key locations, with additional elements of a 19th century London street and colorful spotlights by Matt Phillips with fog effects creating the right sinister mood for this show. Costumes by Sandy Krebs and Lisa Shappell were also beautifully done and evoked the Victorian setting. Sond­ heim’s challenging music was performed expertly, thanks to the strong voices of the cast and the large orchestra conducted by Mrs. Sharon Styer.

Among the many highlights for fans of this show were the musical numbers featuring Sweeney and Mrs. Lovett together (“A Little Priest” and “By the Sea”), and ensemble pieces such as the “Bal­ lad of Sweeney Todd,” “God That’s Good,” and the dramatic finale. Congratulations to everyone involved for a terrific production of “Sweeney Todd!”

— Jove Graham

25 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

Jacob Erdman (Sweeney Todd), Samantha Stancavage (Mrs. Lovett), Ethan Kauffman (Anthony Hope), Alaina Glowatski (Johanna), Owan Amato (Judge Turpin), Caden Hynoski (Beadle Bamford), Eric Zalar (Adolfo Pirelli), Bennet Elio (Tobias Ragg), Hannah Bashore (Beggar Woman), Molly Rossnock (Jonas Fogg), Sandy Lin (Bird Seller); Ensemble: Aaron Tinnin, Abbigail Long, Abby Lowry, Alaina Combs, Arianna Jovel-Martinez, Autumn Peifer, Brandie Yoncuski, Brielle Hornberger, Brooke Kerstetter, Carlee Allison, Elliott Bennet, Emma Boyer, Gabriel Grow, Hannah Hess, Jayden Duganitz, Jess Hadfield, Kenedy Snyder, Makayla Eyster, Makiya Zaleskie, Nadia Williams, Nevaehla Rodri­ guez, Raven Dudra, Ronin Elio, Rylee Bickert; Stage crew: Nicholas Yoswick, Reagan Elio, Kathy Schaeffer, Stephanie Rudy, Thomas Kleman, Madison Wyland, Eva Johnson, Kel Balthaser, Samantha Krajewski; Tech crew: Michael Artman, Noah Kerstetter, Tyler Ker­ stetter, Porter Kramer, Alexis Bressi; Usher: Abbey Noll, Lauren Noll, Selena Lin, Maddie Roman, Aden Santor, John Shepard

SHiHCLLnnr ‘Tuck Everlasting’

‘Beautiful’ dances, more inspired choice to do show new to area

By Kyra Smith-Cullen ksinithcullen@dailyitem.com

Photos by Robert Inglis/The Daily Item

Top left: Jayla Lopez and Angel Mai­ sonette perform a number from Shikellamy’s “Tuck Everlasting.”

Top right: The cast makes its way on stage.

Above: Jace DiPerna and Fox Laubach rehearse.

26 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

Shikellamy High School musi­ cal director Ellen Boyer said she chooses shows that give students their best opportunity for growth and success, not because she wants them to do a production that hasn’t been done in the Valley before — like when Shikellamy students performed “Beauty and the Beast,” “Crazy for You,” “Once On This Is­ land,” “The Wiz,” “Ragtime,” “The Lightning Thief” and this year's musical, “Tuck Everlasting.”

“For the students, doing something new and different is a great challenge and an exciting prospect because they are creating a show they have person­ ally never seen,” she said.

Boyer said she tries to choose a show that fits her students and pro­ vides both a wonderful educational experience for all involved in the production and an interesting, excit­ ing entertainment for the audience. ‘“Tuck Everlasting is a beautiful, touching story and the musical has gorgeous music, exciting dance num-

Jayla Lopez sings in “Tuck Everlasting.” bers, and extremely relatable charac­ ters. Additionally, it was the perfect show for the entire family,” she said.

Boyer said she knew how good the musical was going to be at two points in the rehearsal process.

“There is an amazing song called ‘Time Quartet’ which demonstrates both the pain and the responsibility that infinite time has placed on the Tuck family. It is an extremely dif­ ficult quartet with counter melodies

and intricate voicing. When the family sang it altogether onstage beautifully, I knew they were going to give absolutely stellar perfor­ mances,” she said.

The second time was one that caught The Daily Item’s reviewer Jove Graham’s attention as well.

“The final ballet showing the rest of Winnie’s story was truly mov­ ing,” he wrote.

See TUCK, Page 27

‘Beautiful’ dances, more inspired choice to do show new to area TUCK, from Page 26 Boyer said during that number, no words are spoken and no lyrics are sung.

“And yet, an amazing story needs to be told,” she explained.

“Several guests were watching that night and we could hear their audible reactions and watch them wiping away the tears,” she said of the time that number was done in their first dress rehearsal. “That’s when we knew that we had some­ thing special. They got it — they un­ derstood what we were trying to do and they were moved and touched by the story.”

She said the cast was dedicated to the musical and determined to perform well, despite adversity.

“During Friday’s show, our sound­ board died and the music stopped in the middle of the Act II ballet.

The cast kept dancing and when the music returned after a few terrifying moments, they were exactly in sync and most of the audience had no idea what had happened,” she said proudly.

ERST AND CREW Jayla Lopez (Winnie Foster), Angel Maisonette (Jesse Tuck), Amarilis Tebar (Mae Tuck), Angel Ortiz (Miles Tuck) Cameron Bucher (Angus Tuck), KJ Ranck (Mother) Sam Wolfe (Nana) Micah Shively (Man in Yellow), Jace DiPerna (Hugo), Fox Laubach (Constable Joe); Ensemble: Kyra Lopez, Grace Hogan, Brooklyn Colon, Rachel Inch, Peyton Wiest, Anto­ nio Charriez, Kaylee Jenkins, Egan Shimel, Cora Hoover, Logan Char­ riez, Cynette Winston, Rigo Pena, Rose Hoover, Bradyn Bouder, Allison Carper, Ehsyiah Burgos, Alex Heim; Crew: Elizabeth Furr, Trinity Carper, Lanza Adams, Basil Milheim, Juliann Klinger, Kenzie Maurer, Tristan Hummel, Chris Winston 27 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

tlUSICDL FEE08HCH The students at the Shikellamy High School Theatre, under the direction of Ellen Boyer, put on a fabulous production of “Tuck Everlasting” at Shikellamy High School. This show featured beautiful production values all around and a cast of strong voices and stellar young performers.

“Tuck Everlasting,” based on the children’s novel by Natalie Babbitt, tells the story of 11 -year-old Winnie Foster making a magical discovery in the woods near her home in Treegap, New Hampshire. On her way to a carnival, she meets the Tuck family who have drunk from an enchanted spring that gives them eternal life.

Winnie and the Tucks must evade a carnival man who is also searching for the spring, and ultimately Winnie must make a fateful choice whether to join the Tucks forever or return to her home.

This production featured junior Jayla Lopez as Winnie and senior Angel Maisonette as Jesse Tuck, as well as Amarilis Tebar, Angel Ortiz and Cameron Bucher as the rest of the Tuck clan. Other featured performers included Micah Shively as the nefarious Man In Yellow, and comic relief was provided by the duo of Fox Laubach as Constable Joe and Jace DiPerna as his deputy, Hugo.

A large ensemble of singers, dancers and townspeople made the show a treat to see and hear, under the musi­ cal direction of Brett Hosterman.

The impressive set, designed by Beth O’Connell and Steve Bucher, featured a gigantic, climbable tree, a twostory rotating house, and a giant carnival scene as well, and the lighting and sound by Stefan Eisenhower and

Above: Micah Shively leads a number as the Man in Yellow. Top: Angel Maisonette, Jayla Lopez, Angel Ortiz and Amarilis Tebar perform a scene together.

costumes by Boyer and Marilyn Gresh gave the show a spectacular feel of period authenticity. The audience was delighted by the songs — from spirited choral numbers like “Top of the World” and “Live Like This” to the more intimate solos like “Time” and “Everlasting” — and the final ballet showing the rest of Winnie’s story was truly moving. Congraulations to the cast and crew of Tuck Everlasting for this joyous production!

— Jove Graham

soute iern column “B ye B ye B irdie ”

Having fun was at heart of musical

By Kyra Smith-Cullen ksmithcullen@dailyitem.com

Photos by Robert Inglis/The Daily Item

Top left: Saira Sodergren performs a song from Southern Columbia’s “Bye Bye Birdie.”

Top right: Josh Lahr makes a cast mem­ ber “swoon.”

Above: Alasia Gaines rehearses.

28 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

Southern Columbia Area School District’s musical director Lexi Holtzman wanted her cast and crew to enjoy performing a musical above all else.

“I told the students day one that we are there to have fun, make memories and then make a musical production as well. But the most important thing is for them to have fun and enjoy the process,” she said.

According to The Daily Item’s reviewer Anna Wiest, their enjoy­ ment was evident. Wiest noted how much several members of the cast really leaned into their roles, including Alasia Gaines, Saira Sodergen, Sarah Eyer, Josh Lahr, Bryce Turner and Owen Eyer.

The high school’s Encore program had a lot of newbies this year — including, in some ways, Holtzman herself, who was step­ ping into the role of a director for the first time. Her own greenness guided her decision for Southern Columbia’s students to perform

“Bye Bye Birdie” because she was so familiar with it.

“1 personally know the show very well, so with this being my first year as a director, I wanted to do a show f knew like the back of my hand,” Holtzman said.

She also felt the program had the students to play the parts incredibly well. And, according to Wiest, they did. In her review, Wiest noted how much several members of the cast really leaned into their roles, including Alasia Gaines, Saira Sodergen, Sarah Eyer, Josh Lahr, Bryce Turner and Owen Eyer.

“The students did their own research on their characters and really analyzed the script.

They were allowed some spin on their characters here and there and they had a blast doing it,” Holtzman said.

She said she never had to worry about the students once because they were so wonderful to work with. They were dedicated to put­ ting on the best show they could, vocally and physically.

See BIRDIE, Page 29

CAST HMD CREW Bryce Turner (Albert Peterson), Alasia Gaines (Rose “Rosie” Al­ varez), Josh Lahr (Conrad Birdie), Saira Sodergren (Kim MacAfee), Sarah Eyer (Mae “Mamma” Peter­ son), Mason Laubach (Mr. Harry MacAfee), Natalie Schock (Mrs. Doris MacAfee), Johnny Barnette (Hugo Peabody/ Harvey Johnson), Kelsey Ambrose (Ursula Merkle), Owen Eyer (Randolph MacAfee), Sadie Boucher (Gloria Rasputin), Karley McHale (Nancy), Makenzi Pfirman (Helen), Emily Myers (Margie), Benjamin Karnes (Mayor/ Maude), Aubrie Miller (Mayor’s Wife/Penelope Ann), Isabelle Honabach (Alice), Alexandra Woodland (Deborah Sue), Hailey Gallup (Mrs. Merkle), Mara Turner (Reporter/Susie Q), Mya Daubert (Policeman), Isabella Oravitz, Jocelyn Rarig; Crew: Octavia Henninger, Nicholas Briggs, Maggie Stauder, Hailey Hllywa, Lilli Hinkle, Patrick Lobos, Maya Williams, Brianna Kulick, Arie Green, Hannah Reibsome

flUSICIIL FEEDBACK

Having fun was at heart of musical BIRDIE, from Page 28 “The dance numbers were especially hard for me, but in the end, I got the steps and I am super proud of myself for nailing the numbers for my own sake as well as the audience members’ enjoyment and for my fellow castmates,” said Bryce Turner, a senior, who played songwriter Albert Peterson.

He credited the show’s Music Director Nick McWilliams for being supportive when there were questions or rough spots.

“He was right there to tell me that it’ll get better, it will be fine and to shake it off and try again,” Turner said.

Holtzman said she and McWilliams are trying to grow their music and drama programs, so Encore and “Bye Bye Birdie” were a chance for the pair of them to show both new and veteran performers and production team members what they had to offer.

“There were definitely times I pushed them and challenged them, but the stu­ dents were and are thankful for the push,” Holtzman said. “They realize that is what makes a really successful show.”

29 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

Above: Johnny Barnette, left, and Saira Sodergren re­ hearse their roles for Southern Columbia’s production of “Bye Bye Birdie.”

Top: Josh Lahr gets mauled by a fan as he rehearses his role as Conrad Birdie.

Southern Columbia Area High School’s take on a 60s classic had audience members tapping their toes. The cast of 23 was full of energy and enthusiasm in their performance of “Bye Bye Birdie.”

Among the numerous talented young ladies in this cast, three stood out in their perfor­ mances as actresses and vocalists. Sopho­ more Alasia Gaines played the feisty character Rosie Alavarez. Gaines maintained both an independent-woman attitude and longing for love that showed the many sides of her character.

Saira Sodergen took on the role of Kim MacAfee, a teenage girl who has an obsession with the famous singer, Conrad Birdie. The character struggles to maintain her relationship with her jealous boyfriend when Birdie comes to town. Those watching could tell how much Sodergen enjoyed playing this part.

Perhaps the character to get the most laughs in this production was Mae “Mama” Peterson, played by sophomore Sarah Eyer.

The elderly character struggles to maintain her relationship with her son, Albert, as he makes decisions she doesn’t approve of. Eyer’s physicality as Mama truly brought the character to life, and her line readings made the audience laugh countless times.

As for the males, senior Bryce Turner played Albert Peterson who struggles to manage his career as a songwriter for Conrad Birdie, while also trying to maintain relationships with both Rosie and Mama. Turner portrayed the strug­ gling character quite well, and also showed a softer side when with Rosie.

Senior Josh Lahr played Conrad Birdie, the famous singer who teenage girls are obsessed with. Lahr was effective in his portrayal of the character. With all of the success and fame, Birdie was pretty full of himself, and Lahr played this well.

Another standout guy was Owen Eyer as Randolf MacAfee. Eyer looked significantly younger than the rest of his cast mates, but he did not let this slow him down. In his debut role, Eyer captured and held attention while on stage and made the most of each opportunity he had on the stage.

As a whole, the ensemble had energy aplen­ ty. In particular, the girls who made up the large group of Conrad Birdie fans were truly ecstatic when the Birdie stepped on stage.

Many large, moving pieces made up the set of this production. Each piece was true to the time period and was effective in setting the scene. A set with so many large pieces requires a dedicated crew, and the crew of this show was no exception.

The cast and crew of Bye Bye Birdie put on a high-energy mood lifting performance following the lead of their new director Lexi Holtzman.

— Anna Wiest

WARRIOR RUN The Lightning Thief’

Show gave cast an opportunity to extend their range

By Kyra Smith-Cullen ksmithcullen@dailyitem.com

Photos by Robert Inglis/The Daily Item

Top left: Gavin Hormell and Alivia Ritenour rehearse for Warrior Run’s “The Lightning Thief.”

Top right: Cast members perform a song.

Above: Emma Podobinski acts in a scene.

30 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

“The Lightning Thief” of­ fered Warrior Run students involved in the production a lot of things — source mate­ rial that they may be familiar with because of its status as a bestselling Young Adult series, a more modern score and the chance to learn something.

“We did have new elements to deal with that we have not had to deal with before, such as fight choreography or the water shooting out of the toilet, but we had great people at our dis­ posal who were able to tackle those challenges head on,” said Elizabeth Snow, Warrior Run’s musical director. She noted that the students enjoyed showing off the moves they learned for stage combat, which impressed audiences.

Several members of the 17-person cast also faced the

challenge of juggling multiple roles on stage, whether they were major parts or not.

“The kids really enjoyed getting a chance to stretch their range and this gave them the opportunity to play around more with their acting,” she said. “There were also many different “bit” characters that only made a small appearance that we were able to spread out the parts to allow the kids to play a different role.”

The students rose to the challenge, catching the at­ tention of The Daily Item’s reviewer Jove Graham.

“With matching ‘Camp HalfBlood’ t-shirts, strong voices and overflowing with energy, this cast is to be commended for their upbeat, uplifting presentation of this musical,” he wrote.

See LIGHTNING, Page 31

COST AND CREW Gavin Hormell (Percy Jackson), Emma Podobinski (Annabeth), Alena Shaffer (Grover), Alivia Rltenour (Sal­ ly/Thai Ia/Cam per), Quentin Frank (Mr. Brunner/Chlron/Poseldon), Kara Hoff­ man (Luke/Kurt Cobain/Fury), Jane Petrln (Mr. D/Mozart/Bus Driver), Elle Bowers (Clarlsse/Charon), Elizabeth Laudenslager (Silena Beauregard/ Bianca), Aurora Cleslukowskl (Katie Gardner/Oracle/Minotaur/Janis Jop­ lin/Fury), Brayden Warner (Gabe Ugliano/Ares/Freddie Mercury/Camper), Isabella Figueroa (Mrs. Dodds/Aunty Em/Camper), Daniel Jones (Hades/ Train Conductor/Camper), Madeline Deltterick (Reporter/Camper), Sum­ mer Rovenolt (Echidna/Greyhound Passenger/Camper), Makenzee Tall­ ent (Farmer/Squlrrel/Camper), Alana Zaouati-Lalne (Greyhound Passen­ ger/Camper); Crew: Julia Musgrave, Meg Rovenolt, Sara Gerhum

Show gave cast an opportunity to extend range LIGHTNING, from Page 30 Snow said she was pretty confident from the start that the show was going to be a success, but said there was a magical moment during dress rehearsal when the kids have all the elements — costumes, lights and musicians — where everything clicks for the people involved.

As production neared, Snow said she was excited for audiences to see the “Put You in Your Place” number.

“There were always audible gasps as the first guitar rip was heard and the heavy rock feel had people bouncing up and down in their seats,” she explained.

Snow said the musical also featured a message she thought was good for the stu­ dents in and out of the production to learn.

“Percy's mother explains to Percy early on in Act 1 ‘normal is a myth, everyone has issues they’re dealing with, the things that make you special are the things that make you strong,”’ she explained. “I thought this was an important message for our student population and they can relate to the issues in this show. They can relate to struggles with friendships, family, school, learning and change.”

31 VALLEY MUSICALS | THE DAILY ITEM | MAY 16, 2023

I1USICI1L FEEDBACK The students of Warrior Run High School, under the direction of Elizabeth Snow, presented a terrific production of “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical.” With a classic Greek temple-inspired set, colorful lighting and fun, inventive costumes, this show was a delight, particularly for young fans of the Rick Riordan book series.

“The Lightning Thief,” which premiered in 2014 as an OffBroadway show before multiple tours and a Broadway run, is based on the YA novel and tells the story of young Percy Jackson who discovers he is part of a community of demigods, children of the Greek gods and goddesses of mythology. This production featured a strong ensemble of 17 students, some of them playing up to five roles each, led by senior Gavin Hormell playing Percy, and Emma Podobinski and Alena Shaffer playing his best friends Annabeth and Grover, respectively.

With matching “Camp Half-Blood” T-shirts, strong voices, and overflowing with energy, this cast is to be commended for their upbeat, uplifting presentation of this musical. As the director’s note in the program said, quoting the

Above: Students practice their fight choreography.

Top: Gavin Hormell, Quentin Frank and Jane Petrin perform a scene together. lyrics, “Normal is a myth... (and) the things that make you different are the very things that make you strong,” which is a powerful message for young students today.

With Taylor Rhodes providing musical direction, the show was full of funny and touching songs, including: the expositional “Another Terrible Day” led by Jane Petrin playing camp counselor Mr. Dionysus (or “Mr. D”); the rousing group numbers “The Campfire Song” and “D.O.A.” (the latter spearheaded by Elle Bowers as

Charon), and the very funny Act II opener “Lost!” in which Percy, Annabeth and Grover bemoaning how their mythic quest has been waylaid in New Jersey, of all places. With a guitar-heavy score, the rocking, rollicking musical numbers in this show were a joy to listen to, thanks to the live six-piece band led by Rhodes and the vocal talents of the students on stage.

Congratulations to the cast and crew for another enjoyable production!

—

Jove Graham