In just its sixth year, the after school Theater Arts class has brought a new performance opportunity to County Prep students, who are learning both performance and rehearsal practices, and are encountering first hand all of the aspects of professional theater. Once again, the show had complete live accompaniment, by renowned pianist Craig Ketter, under the direction of our wonderful Musical Director, Valerie Gonzalez. The show was designed by our professional lighting designer, Mr. Lance Michel, and was directed by Ms. Shields.
This year, the students focused on rehearsing and performing the musical How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, a satire of the world of big business, a topic quite relevant now as it was at the time when the musical was conceived. The story centers around J. Pierrepont Finch, a young window washer, who is looking for the fastest way to rise to the top, with the help of a simple Self-Help book. Finch is an opportunist, will pull any deceptions, and strings he figures would help his cause. Along his journey, Finch discovers friends, stirs up enemies and finds true love.
County Prep’s rendition of the musical was very well received. The response of the audience was amazing, with lots of audience members sharing their favorite moments. Some of the comments the performers received were: “Hilarious!”, “The actors were phenomenal!”, “The acting was so believable”. A few even said that, “it felt like we were watching a movie that kept us to the edge of the seat”, other raved about the strength of the singing numbers.
Directed by Ms. Shields, this piece was chosen to showcase our performers this year. Kyle Velazquez starred as Finch, Sirena Morales starred as Rosemary. The cast also included Senior Delana Ramos who also choreographed the majority of the songs, Senior Solimar Colombani, Juniors Ivory Torres and Bertha Solis, Sophomores Dynajah Smith and Yvelisse Vargas, Freshmen Ariel Rivera, Kayla Velazquez, Ariana Young and Debora Melendez . This production was overall an ensemble piece, where each performer was involved at all times, either on stage in numerous group numbers and scenes, or backstage preparing the set, props, costumes, and program. Special recognition also goes to stage manager lighting technician Senior Alexis Medel, sound technicians Senior Cindy Ramos and her Assistant Senior Justin Cuevas as well as make-up artist extraordinaire Senior Karissa Cruz. Last but not least, our Stage Hands Senior Terrell Wehner and Freshmen Kaine Malachi and Joseph Marto helped make the show possible.
Ms. Shields and Ms.Gonzalez are very proud of all of the cast and crew whose work has developed through our premiere rendition of this Broadway classic.
The Fantasticks is presented through arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI)
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com.com