Starting this Thursday night, students from the Old Rochester Regional High School Drama Club will stage “Oklahoma!,” a classic American musical based on the play “Green Grown the Lilacs” by Lynn Riggs and set to the music and production of Rodgers and Hammerstein.
The action-packed, fun-filled performance is directed by Paul Sardinha and will take place at the Gilbert D. Bristol Auditorium at Old Rochester Regional High School from March 21 – 23 at 7:30 pm and March 24 at 2:00 pm. The show features a cast of 62 students, including senior Max Houck, senior Madelyn Pellegrino, senior Sophia-Lynn Ellis, senior Alex Milde, senior Sophia Santos, junior Samuel Resendes, and senior Daniel Donohue, as well as 45 students on the technical crew.
Helen Blake handled costumes, John Farrell engineered the sound, and Michael Barnicle led the orchestra.
The cast and crew have been working on the performance three times a week since early January, and they are eager for Thursday’s opening.
“The kids are really excited and always a bit nervous before opening night,” said Andrea Patisteas, the parent of two students in the play and the publicist for the ORRHS Drama Club. “They have worked tirelessly since the beginning of January and feel ready to perform for the general public.”
Sardinha added that “Rogers and Hammerstein’s groundbreaking production of “Oklahoma!” has stood the test of time for many reasons. It’s beautifully written with many memorable songs. It has a lush musical score and includes at least eight well-known songs. Most of you coming to see it will probably find yourself singing along with the students.”
Tickets are $12 for students and senior citizens and $15 for the general public, and are available at the door and also at the Pen and Pendulum in Mattapoisett, Plumb Corner Market in Rochester and the Marion General Store in Marion. For ticket reservations, please phone Lisa Cardoza at 508-758-6762.
Pastisteas said that it took hard work from the entire cast and crew to prepare for the performance.
“It’s important to realize that aside from the stage cast, which includes 62 kids, there are 45 students working on the tech crew,” she said. “The show couldn’t go on without everyone, and sometimes the backstage crew, sound and light crews don’t get the recognition they deserve. Everyone counts in the ORRHS Drama Club!”
By Nick Walecka
How can I find current theatrical performances at the H.S. ? Thanks.