Chicago Heights, IL–(ENEWSPF)– “Kid, I’m going to make you a star!” Those iconic words capture the spirit of Marian Catholic High School’s spring musical, 42nd Street . The musical is based on the 1980 Broadway hit (and its 2001 revival), which in turn was based on the 1933 movie of the same name. The show, with music by Harry Warren, lyrics by Al Dubin and book by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble, features an array of classic songs: “Shuffle Off to Buffalo,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “We’re in the Money,” and, of course, the title song.
The plot concerns director Julian Marsh’s (Mike Friar) attempts to stage the new musical Pretty Lady with leading lady Dorothy Brock (Jaime Patriarca) who is not all that comfortable with dance. Complicating matters is Dorothy’s juggling of two men: Abner Dillon (Alex Rogers), who also happens to be the financial backer of the show, and Pat Denning (Mike Mulhearn), a dancer whom Dorothy really loves. When Dorothy breaks her leg, all seems lost, but Peggy Sawyer (Molly Anne Nunn), a naïve chorus, steps in to take the role. Billy Lawlor (Chris Skurka), a tenor who is very much in love with himself, casts his eye on Peggy, and further complications ensue.
Other colorful characters are choreographer Andy Lee (Alex Gallinaro), writer/producers Bert Berry and Maggie Jones (Tim Blewitt and Vanessa Brignol), Oscar the rehearsal pianist (Conor Keane), and Peggy’s fellow chorines Annie Megan McDonnell, Phyllis (Chantal Freeman), Lorraine (Courtney Cooper), Gladys (Alia Thomas), Diane (Alanna Lovely), and Ethel (Melissa Zambrano).
Rounding out the cast and playing multiple roles are Will Blewitt, Gina Ceragioli, Adam King, Joe Kudra, and Julie Zielinski.
Mark Donaway is directing the musical, assisted by Student Director Mary Frances Jones. The music is directed by Michelle Coduti, with Greg Bimm conducting the orchestra and Zach Zube choreographing. Set design and technical direction is by Bernard Jablonski.
The show will run Friday and Saturday, April 25 and 26, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, April 27, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $8 general admission, 6$ for seniors and children 12 and under. Marian is located at the intersection of Ashland Ave. and Joe Orr Rd. in Chicago Heights , with the entrance to Croarkin Auditorium on the Joe Orr Rd. side. For more information or to reserve tickets, call 708-756-9443.
