November brings the high school musical season to Woodbury; here’s what you’ll see on local stages this fall.
East Ridge High School – Fiddler on the Roof
Brendan Finn is taking the stage this fall at East Ridge High School as Tevye, the poor Jewish milkman with five daughters, in the ever-popular Fiddler on the Roof. Maggie Eckberg plays the role of Tevye’s wife, Golde. Set in the Russian village of Anatevka in 1905, the story centers around Tevye’s desire to maintain the traditions of his Jewish faith in a changing world, and the love between husband and wife.
The show starts it fifth Broadway revival in December. “Fiddler highlights the themes of tradition vs. modern ideas, certainty vs. uncertainty, the old way vs. the new,” says director Amanda Hestwood. “As East Ridge High School enters a new period, our school community is exploring these same ideas. This play is also a celebration of community. Tevye and his family give us the chance to explore our own trials and tribulations along with our many celebrations.”
Performances: 7:30 p.m./opening night gala at 6 p.m. November 6; 7:30 p.m. November 7, 13-14; 2 p.m. November 8 and 15. $10 adult and $8 student/senior; purchase in advance here and save a dollar.
New Life Academy – The Music Man
Fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill gets his heart stolen by town librarian Marian Paroo in this family-friendly classic show. Set in fictional River City, Iowa, the show features a school board turned barbershop quartet, a lovable mayor and his ebullient wife, and a self-conscious 10-year-old boy who overcomes his shyness to be part of the boys’ band, organized by “Professor” Harold Hill.
“We are bringing back The Music Man because it’s just plain fun,” says Carole Brumley, director. “Who doesn’t just shake their head and smile at the antics of Harold Hill and feel the exasperation of Marian? It’s a great musical to show off lots of different student abilities, involve some elementary students, and it has some great choral numbers.”
Lead roles in the New Life Academy production include Ben Brown (Harold Hill) and Abby Nuehring (Marian Paroo).
Performances: 7 p.m. November 6, 7, 13 and 14; 2 p.m. November 8 and 15. $15 adult and $10 student/senior.
Woodbury High School – Thoroughly Modern Millie
The story of Millie Dillmount, a girl from Kansas who sets out for New York City to marry a rich man, comes to life on Woodbury High School’s stage; Molly Roche is Millie, Elena Cressy is Dorothy and Sam Crosby-Schmidt is Jimmy. Set in the fast-paced 1920s, Millie experiences a “thoroughly modern” flapper lifestyle in the Big Apple, working as a stenographer, nearly getting caught up in a white slavery ring, and finding unexpected romance.
“I’m thrilled to introduce this community to this most exciting show,” says director Marcie Berglund. “It’s the perfect musical, filled with intrigue, humor, diversity and romance. This show is the complete package with exciting music, tap dancing typists, fast-talking bosses, a nightclub diva and speakeasy modern men and women.”
Performances: 7 p.m. November 13-14 and 19-21; 3 p.m. November 15. $10 adult and $8 student/senior; purchase in advance here and save a dollar.
