The Music Man

In its second annual production, the Masquers Theater Company of the Garden City High School is currently working on its Spring Musical, Meredith Willson's "The Music Man." The show, both a well-known and universally adored musical comedy, will be performed on Friday, April 15 and Saturday, April 16 at Garden City High School at 8:00 p.m.

The Music Man , led by its stars Robert Preston and Barbara Cook on Broadway, was both a critical and commercial hit in the 1950's, running for nearly fourteen hundred performances. The pinnacle of its success was best epitomized by its 1958 win for the Best Musical Tony Award, beating out the popular West Side Story.

In the Masquers revival of the show, the cast is led by senior Jason Butler as Professor Harold Hill and junior Joan Persico as Marian "The Librarian" Paroo. "The Music Man" follows Harold Hill into the stubborn town of River City, Iowa, and focuses on the effects of his persuasiveness and appeal have on the town's residents, especially the conservative librarian. Mayhem and pure comedy arise when Hill promises to turn the boys of the town into talented musicians. Hill's friendship with his old buddy Marcellus along with River City resident bad-boy, Tommy Djilis (played by junior Mike Intregila), along with the budding chemistry between he and Marian, force all the heads in River City to turn with the knowledge that they've got trouble right in River City! The cast includes the very talented barbershop quartet of Kaitlin Rose, Jenny Cohn, Lindsey Spina, and Nicole Mercer and the Zaneeta of Liz Ward. Sophomores Ryan Torino, Candace Hall, and Clare Hartigan are also featured as the hilarious Mayor, Mayor's wife, and Mrs. Paroo, respectively.

The show is perfect for all ages, from young children to senior citizens. The show is a perfect treat for families and sure to be a night of fun! The Music Man is directed by advisor Patrice Valenti with student direction by senior Meghan Lee. Additional support comes from the fabulous Meghan Smith, Masquers' assistant advisor. Mr. Ara Muradyan is Masquers' technical advisor and Marissa Krupen is the stage manager. Mr. James P. McCrann and Mr. Steven Mayo also play a role in the production as the conductor and choral director respectively.

With popular songs such as "76 Trombones," "Lida Rose," "Ya Got Trouble," "Marian the Librarian," and "Till There Was You" and an overall enthusiastic cast and crew, "The Music Man" is sure to be a fun night out for the whole family! Performances will be held on Friday, April 15 and Saturday, April 16 at 8 p.m. at Garden City High School. Tickets are $8 for students, children, and senior citizens and $10 for adults.