Community Theatre Presents "That's Amore"

Cast members for That's Amore"

The Garden City Community Theatre is pleased to present a new original musical, "That's Amore" on April 11-13 at the Garden City Community Church, located at 245 Stewart Avenue. The story, written by Guy Milone Jr., and directed by John Mezzo, features nearly 50 budding actors and actresses of all ages, including Diane Feyrer as Theresa, John Torres as Michael, and Melissa Ryan as Rose. For ticket information call (516) 741-1061. Tickets are $15 each for adults, $10 for seniors\children.

The story takes place in the 1950's at an Italian restaurant. Some of the finest Italian food was found in the Little Italy section of New Haven in the nineteen forties and fifties. A handful of small family owned and operated restaurants created a comfortable family atmosphere for dining sprinkled with great stories, outstanding food and homemade wines. To the families that owned these restaurants, it was not just a business, it was their lives and often times their homes. Dino's, founded by Dino Consiglio, an Italian immigrant from Sicily, was no different. When Dino wasn't back in the kitchen tasting the sauce or checking that the gnocchi wasn't too pasty, he was out front with his customers singing, telling stories and creating an entertaining atmosphere that keeps 'em coming back. But by 1957 those days and Dino were gone, and Dino's daughter, Theresa, and her husband, Michael, were operating a struggling establishment and dealing with their family's problems as best they could. The impending marriage of one daughter, a second daughter struggling to be a chef, and a third daughter who gave up on love are all adding to the family's woes. But when there's Italian family, there's always plenty of food, song, hope and Amore.

Andy Morreale and Melissa Ryan want YOU to buy tickets!

Other members of the cast include: Angelina - Gerri Dejohn, Frannie - Anna Morreale, Connie - Caitlin Crowley, Maria- Brittney Stein, Dino - John Mezzo, Paisan - Bill Voltz, Cupcakes - Gabe Mollica, Louie - Chris Bucheri, Ralph - Xavier Alisse, Sal - Danielle Dougherty, Goldstone - Bill Bianchi, and Vinnie - Peter Olynciw. Some of the cast members have previously appeared with the Garden City Community Theatre, and some bring experience from the Garden City High School Masquers performances. Musical direction is by by Kim Oler, and musical arrangements by Marylyn Varriale. The set, the scenic design and show logo were both designed and produced by Cathryn Mezzo. This year's production was produced by Andrew Morreale, Brad Gustavson, and Ruby Gustavson.

John Torres gets upstage with the chorus in That's Amore.

The Garden City Community Theatre, established through the efforts of Brad and Ruby Gutavson, is an organization of the Community Church, and provides a wonderful opportunity for local residents to perform and learn stagecraft and acting. Through the past decade, many moms and dads have shared the stage with their children and find it a rewarding experience. Come on down and show you support!

A baker's dozen in the dance scene charms everyone in That's Amore. Waitresses at Dino's Restaurant want to serve YOU! Dianne Feyrer, John Torres, and Melissa Ryan in That's Amore! Bill Volz is ready to have a drink in That's Amore.