Stage shows Student actors, actresses in region to present musicals, plays

Mar. 3—JOHNSTOWN, Pa. — Area high school stages will come alive with the talent of student actors presenting musicals and plays.

Schools not included in the list have already presented productions, haven't scheduled performances or didn't respond with information.

Bedford: "Oliver!"

The streets of Victorian England come to life as Oliver, a malnourished orphan in a workhouse, becomes the neglected apprentice of an undertaker. Oliver escapes to London and finds acceptance in a group of petty thieves and pickpockets led by the elderly Fagin. When Oliver is captured for a theft that he did not commit, the victim, Mr. Brownlow, takes him in. Fearing the safety of his hideout, Fagin employs the sinister Bill Sikes and the sympathetic Nancy to kidnap him back, threatening Oliver's chances of discovering the true love of a family.

"This year, we've added a group of fourth- and fifth- graders to the high school cast to portray our orphans. The younger children are very enthusiastic and bring so much energy to the show. We're hoping that this experience makes lifelong actors and actresses, and we'll see them back on stage when they are high schoolers." — Caroline Leap, director

Berlin Brothersvalley: "Anastasia"

The show transports audiences from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past.

Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing con man, Dimitri, and a lovable ex-aristocrat, Vlad.

Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family.

"Our rehearsal began in January. The leading players in the show have been so dedicated to learning their music, blocking and choreography. The entire cast, including a 30-member ensemble, has really been taken by the beautiful score written for this show. I am so proud of the entire cast for taking on the challenge of learning a new show that many were not familiar with before our announcement in November. I look forward to the community and area musical enthusiasts coming to see a newer show featuring a classic story as we all 'Journey to the Past.' " — Katie Spiri, director

Bishop Carroll Catholic: "Beauty and the Beast"

"Beauty and the Beast" is the story of an arrogant young prince who is cruel to a woman who turns out to be an enchantress. Because of his cruelty, she places a curse on his household and transforms all his household staff into objects. She then turns the prince into a hideous Beast until he learns to love and be loved in return. The spirited headstrong village girl Belle enters the Beast's castle after he imprisons her father, Maurice.

With the help of the enchanted staff, Belle begins to draw the cold-hearted Beast out of his isolation. In turn, the Beast begins to learn what it means to love. However, darker forces outside the castle walls threaten to ruin everything.

"This show has been a joy for both myself and the students to work on, and is such a fun musical to put together. Doing 'Beauty and the Beast' this year is special because the show will no longer be available in North America at the end of 2024. The show is going back into the Disney vault. This may be the last opportunity we or other high schools have to present this musical for a while. The students have been working very hard to bring this magical fairy tale to life and have quickly taken to their characters with great enthusiasm." — Samantha Brisini, director

Bishop McCort Catholic: "Broadway and Beyond"

Featuring 100 years of Broadway, the cabaret-style show is a musical revue of songs, dances, skits and entertainment featuring some of the most beloved Broadway shows of all time. It will feature music from more than 50 shows from the early years, the Rodgers and Hammerstein era and the golden years of traditional Broadway.

"We wanted to do something very different this year. Our cast is diverse in ages and experience, and this type of show gives them all an opportunity to shine." — Jean Arcurio, director

Blacklick Valley: "Mary Poppins"

Jane and Michael Banks desperately want their father's attention, but George Banks is focused on giving his family the best money can buy. Mary Poppins flies in just in time to help the Banks family realize how much they need each other. Factor in the jack-of-all-trades Bert, and the fun and laughter becomes infectious.

"After directing the show, I have a greater appreciation for its message. And as a teacher, this is my goal each year, to leave my students with a lesson that they can carry with them through life. Ironically, the words are spoken by a minor character, not Mary Poppins or Bert, but they are ones that I think we could all reflect on. In a conversation about money, Mr. Northbrook explains that money has worth, but the value of something is in how we use it and make it a part of our lives. "Do good, and may you have good luck." — Jessica Strazisar, director

Chestnut Ridge: "Addams Family: School Edition"

The Addamses have lived by their values for hundreds of years, and Gomez and Morticia, the patriarch and matriarch of the clan, would be only too happy to continue living that way. Their dark, macabre, beloved daughter Wednesday is now 18 and ready for a life of her own. She has fallen in love with Lucas Beineke, a sweet, smart boy from a normal, respectable Ohio family.

To make matters worse, she has invited the Beinekes to their home for dinner. In one fateful, hilarious night, secrets are disclosed, relationships are tested and the Addams family must face up to the one horrible thing they've managed to avoid for generations — change.

"We are thrilled to introduce the inaugural cast of our newly created program. The students have worked tirelessly over the last few months to polish their performance and bring this exciting show to life. "Working with this group of students has been both a pleasure and an honor. We cannot wait to see what the future holds for these talented students. We can only hope that our community enjoys the show as much as we have enjoyed preparing it." — Lauren Zeznanski, director

Conemaugh Township: "Mary Poppins"

"Mary Poppins" follows the story of the beloved movie with popular songs such as "Spoonful of Sugar," "Feed the Birds," "Step in Time," "Chim Chiminey," "Let's Go Fly a Kite," "Jolly Holiday" and "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious." The show has new characters and songs such as "Practically Perfect," "Precision and Order" and "Anything Can Happen."

"We are so excited to bring this Disney classic to our community, especially within the year that Dick Van Dyke, who played the original Bert, was featured in '98 Years of Magic' on television. This is a show that relates to all ages. In today's fast-paced and business-driven society, it shows the importance of taking time for family and imagination, and just sometimes a little magic helps along the way. Our cast, crew and directors have been hard at work since the beginning of December and are excited to share our production with our school and community." — Mari Grace Lingenfelter, director

Conemaugh Valley: "Mary Poppins"

One of the most popular Disney movies of all time is capturing hearts in a whole new way — as a practically perfect musical. Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Disney film, "Mary Poppins" delighted Broadway audiences for more than 2,500 performances and received nominations for nine Olivier and seven Tony awards, including Best Musical.

"We have challenged our 17 talented cast members and 13 dedicated crew members to work together to bring this production to the stage. Since day one, they have supported each other, expanding their comfort zones, picking each other up when necessary and always cheering for each other. It has been a wonderful journey for us as directors, witnessing the increased self-confidence of all our cast and crew, and watching the show come together through the students' dedication to each other and to their craft. It is going to be a 'Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious' 'Jolly Holiday' for everyone." — Allen Bixel and Kristina Marinkovich, directors

Ferndale Area: "Sherlock Holmes: Assassins at Sea"

The game is on and the "Elyssia" is sailing the ocean, headed for New York. Unfortunately, it is not a simple voyage for Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson. The pair, in disguise, is on the run from a team of assassins, also in disguise. Meanwhile, their friend Oscar Dove is helping an industrialist escape agents who are after his secret formula, and Lady Constance is helping several young women flee from oppression. Holmes must look through the disguises and stories to discover who he can trust, without getting discovered himself. And what does a backache have to do with solving the crime?

"It's never easy for Detective Holmes and Dr. Watson. So why is an ocean voyage any different? Chaos ensues as disguises and miscommunications are abundant between the duo and those after them. Can you keep up? This year, our actors have put their all into pulling you into the mystery with them and making sure you're guessing right alongside them." — Susan Leftwich, director

Glendale: "Newsies"

Disney's "Newsies" is a musical that follows the inspiring true story of the Newsboys' Strike of 1899 in New York City. The young and charismatic Jack Kelly leads a group of newsboys as they rally against powerful newspaper magnates such as Joseph Pulitzer. Fueled by their determination for fair treatment, the newsboys unite in a spirited fight for justice, using music and dance to convey the exhilarating tale of solidarity and resilience.

"The kids have worked so hard on this show, and it's one of the toughest, dance heavy shows we've ever produced. I handle all of the music, but Jennifer Putorek has had her hands full coming up with exciting and creative choreography, ranging from tap-dancing, lyrical and some flips/lifts to propel the story forward. These kids, grades 5 through 12, have been working for months to prepare for this show, and we couldn't be any more proud of their work and determination to perform this musical at such a high caliber. Anyone who comes to see this show is in for a treat." — Lawrence Putorek, director

Johnstown Christian: "Narnia"

The Pevensie siblings are sent away from London during World War II to stay in the manor house of a good professor. The children stumble upon a wardrobe that leads into the magical kingdom of Narnia. They are embraced by the talking animals, fauns and Father Christmas, who all await the return of Aslan the Great Lion, their rightful ruler. Danger can be found in Narnia. The White Witch has declared herself queen of Narnia, and the children are soon caught in a fierce struggle of good versus evil. In Narnia, the children face temptation and fear, but learn deep lessons of courage, selflessness and wisdom that help them grow in spirit and prepare them to return to life in our world.

"I am so excited for this production. We are working with a small cast to bring this magical world to life. The cast, crew and production staff are working hard to develop the world of Narnia into something that is uniquely ours. With so many adaptations of C.S. Lewis' classic story, we hope to bring something to the stage that audiences may not have seen before." — Bethany Thomas, director

Ligonier Valley: "The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical"

Based on the best-selling novel by Rick Riordan, the musical follows Percy Jackson as he navigates the world of Greek mythology after he finds out he's a demigod. With his friends Grover and Annabeth, Percy goes on a quest filled with Greek gods and monsters to save his mom from the Underworld.

"LVHS is proud to bring this story to life on stage. As a middle school teacher in the district, I see a Percy Jackson book in my classroom daily. It is so exciting to give this experience to the students in Ligonier Valley. Our cast and crew are working endlessly with all that goes into the show, but are especially enjoying the addition of stage combat and a lot of exciting costume and special effects." — Brianna Grimm, director

North Star: "Annie the Musical"

Little Orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of an orphanage that is run by the frustrated and dissatisfied Miss Hannigan. With the help of the other girls in the orphanage, Annie escapes to the wondrous world of New York City, where she hopes to find her parents. Her plan is halted by Lieutenant Ward, who escorts Annie back to the orphanage, and just when it seems like all hope is lost, Annie experiences some good fortune. Grace Farrell, secretary to billionaire Oliver Warbucks, arrives to invite an orphan to live with Warbucks for a week to improve his public image. Warbucks, charmed by Annie's precociousness, lets her stay and begins to find it impossible to imagine life without her.

"Everyone expects adorable kids in 'Annie,' which we absolutely have, a result of including our middle school students in at least one musical number in our high school productions over the past five years. This year, we are proud to have 20 middle school students involved in our production, which will provide us with a strong foundation for our future. While orphans are well-known in Annie, playing an adult character in this show is every bit as exciting. From "Hooverville" to "NYC" to "I Don't Need Anything But You," we can't wait for our 24 high school cast and crew to experience a whole different side of 'Annie.' We are thrilled to watch our students continue to grow as performers and as a team." — Larry Gindlesperger, executive producer

Northern Bedford County: "Matilda the Musical"

Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers. She's unloved by her cruel parents, but impresses her schoolteacher Miss Honey. During her first term at school, the two forge a bond as Miss Honey begins to recognize and appreciate Matilda's extraordinary personality. Matilda's school life isn't completely smooth sailing. The school's mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and just loves to punish those who don't abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, and could be the school pupils' saving grace.

"This show gets to the heart of overcoming evil with what is right, and that care and encouragement of others as individuals are key to all aspects of our lives. Additionally, the music and writing in 'Matilda' is infectious and very well-written for actors of various ages and role types. We are excited that our theatrical efforts at NBC are continuing to expand with the growth of a middle school production alongside this year's high school show. Musical theater is a collaborative process and we are excited to bring all of our students together, as well as our community. The entire process is always a lot of work and time, but very rewarding for all, especially to see students grow and discover themselves." — Brett Keith, director

Northern Cambria: "Hands on a Hardbody"

For 10 hard-luck Texans, a new lease on life is so close they can touch it. Under a scorching sun for days on end, armed with nothing but hope, humor and ambition, they'll fight to keep at least one hand on a brand-new truck in order to win it. In the hilarious, hard-fought contest, only one winner can drive away with the American dream.

"I wanted to do something that was unique. It was a successful Broadway show that has never been done around this area and is new to theatergoers. It incorporates the true stories of the 10 contestants' lives through songs that are a mix of country, gospel, rock and ballads. It is a very challenging show. The centerpiece of the set is a real truck that the cast must maneuver around without ever taking their hand off it until their elimination. Plus, the music is not your typical Broadway mix. We have been having a lot of fun and the students have been working extremely hard to perfect this production." — Tim Jacobs, director

Penn Cambria: "Legally Blonde: The Musical"

The show tells the story of Elle Woods, a sorority girl who enrolls at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend Warner. She discovers how her knowledge of the law can help others. Although very few characters have faith in Elle, she manages to surprise them when she defies expectations, solve a murder case and graduate with high honors, all while staying true to herself.

"We are so excited to perform this musical. The students are doing a great job, and we are having so much fun. About 45 students are taking part in this show and everyone is embracing their role. We hope many people come to see this performance. The music is catchy and fun, and there is drama and action and comedy, a perfect combination." — Holly Smith, director

Richland: "Mean Girls: High School Edition"

Cady Heron may have grown up on an African savanna, but nothing prepared her for the wild and vicious ways of her strange new home: suburban Illinois. How will this naive newbie rise to the top of the popularity pecking order? By taking on The Plastics, a trio of lionized frenemies led by the charming but ruthless Regina George. But when Cady devises a plan to end Regina's reign, she learns the hard way that you can't cross a queen bee without getting stung.

"This will be the first Cambria County performance of the Tina Fey movie hit turned Broadway musical and now turned movie musical. This show is hilarious, but also a powerful reminder of the consequences of bullying and the power of being kind to each other. Tina Fey wrote this show through the lenses of a mother of two daughters, a former struggling teen herself, and a feminist. As advocates for all of our students, both girls-and boys, this story resonates with all of us as teachers and students. While this is the high school edition of 'Mean Girls,' we were given only certain approved changes from the publishing company. The show carries a PG-13 rating, so parental guidance should be exercised." — Ben Easler, director

Rockwood Area: "Back to the '80s"

"Back to the '80s" tells the story of the senior class of William Ocean High School as remembered through the eyes of now-30-something Corey Palmer. The 17-year-old Corey is madly in love with his next-door neighbor, Tiffany Houston, one of the coolest girls in the school. However, she is too busy mooning over Michael Feldman, the hottest guy around. Michael and his friends are athletic and good looking — the kind of guys that Corey and his two best friends dream of being. However, while they may not be the coolest guys in school, they are still one up on Feargal McFerrin III, whose best friend is his computer, and who believes the crazy notion that one day CDs will replace cassette tapes.

"Our cast of 41 students, ranging from grades 6 to 12, are excited for opening night to showcase their hard work and talent. They have had a great time learning and dancing to the songs of the '80s." — Susie Branam, director

Salisbury-Elk Lick: "Matilda Jr."

The daughter of abusive parents, Matilda finds refuge in library books, which she reads quickly, and in creating her own stories. Things are no better at school, where Matilda also must face a tyrannical and cruel headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, who believes in Crunchem Hall's motto: "Bambinatum est Magitum," or "Children are Maggots." She finds companionship in her teacher, Miss Honey, who, though well-intentioned, is shy and fragile. Brave little Matilda knows she has to stand up against the adults in her world, and in doing so, discovers her own remarkable powers.

"Our students have been working very hard to bring to life this story. They are very excited to perform for their community, who have been so supportive." — Lori Sines, director

Shanksville-Stonycreek: "How the West Was Dun"

Slick and wealthy Richard Coldheart must marry Polly Wanda Cracker to control the Cracker property. However, it's Polly's homely sister, Prunella, who wants to marry him. Meanwhile, our hero, Sheriff Wayne John, has his hands full surviving the hilarious antics of well-meaning but not too bright Deputy Doowrong. When a bundle of villains, including Snydley Dastardley, Kid Kid and Calamity Jan, attempt to take over Low Humidity Chasm, things really go crazy.

"The drama club is excited to perform a Western after a slew of modern day or medieval plays. This play has a couple lead roles and many supports that bring it together hilariously. We're adding in some extra props to make it over the top." — Mark Wilt, director

Somerset Area: "The Music Man"

"The Music Man" follows fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill as he cons the people of River City, Iowa, into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys' band that he vows to organize despite the fact that he doesn't know a trombone from a treble clef. His plans to skip town with the cash are foiled when he falls for Marian, the librarian, who transforms him into a respectable citizen by curtain's fall.

"Our cast is made up of 67 students in grades 5 through 12 this year. Many are seasoned performers who are anxious to be on stage again. Everyone is working extremely hard to make sure we bring to life small-town Iowa in 1912. It has been interesting trying to get the cast to realize how thrilling it would have been for the 'Wells Fargo Wagon' to come to town in those days. I think we are all becoming aware of how lucky we are to be living with the conveniences of 2024." — Susan DiPasquale, director

Turkeyfoot Valley: "Legally Blonde Jr."

The musical follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, snobbery and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. When Elle's boyfriend Warner dumps her and heads to Harvard, claiming she's not "serious" enough, Elle takes matters into her own hands, crafting a showy song-and-dance personal essay and charming her way into law school. Befriending classmate Emmett and spunky hairdresser Paulette along the way, Elle finds that books and looks aren't mutually exclusive. As Elle begins outsmarting her peers, she realizes that law may be her natural calling after all.

"Please join our cast and crew for this fun and lively show. This will be the fourth musical performed in our growing performing arts program. The students' talents and abilities continue to progress and develop, allowing them to provide the community with another amazing musical experience. Let the students' love and energy for the arts capture you for an uplifting and enjoyable trip from California to Harvard University. We look forward to seeing you in the Valley." — Megan Barlow, director

United: "WCKY"

Successful businesswoman Darla Van Owen built an empire all on her own and has now heavily invested in a radio show against the advice of her accountant Starling Edison. Trusting her niece and director's assistant Polly to make sure nothing goes wrong, Darla plans a spectacular debut.

Head writer Roy, who has a penchant for rimshots and unbelievable endings, also is planning a few surprises of his own, including proposing to Polly on air. But frustration sets in when the writers are plagued with rewrites and unwritten scripts. Tempers flare when the veteran actor and the ooh-la-la girl dispute their contracts. And no one is prepared when mysterious events start killing off the talent. Detective Carter and Officer Green, her fumbling but adoring subordinate, are called in to crack the case.

"We have an energetic, young cast who has been working very hard to put together this fast-paced, side-splitting show. I'm so proud of all the work they have done to put together this performance." — Michelle Dunn, director

Westmont Hilltop: "Chicago: Teen Edition"

Chicago, 1920s. Jazz is hot, hemlines are rising and murderesses are making headlines. Enter Roxie Hart, a starry-eyed housewife with a song in her heart and a bullet in her boyfriend. She finds herself thrust into the Cook County Jail. There she rubs shoulders with the legendary Velma Kelly, a vaudeville star serving time for a similar crime. Both vie for the spotlight and the attention of the charmingly corrupt smooth-talking king of the courtroom, Billy Flynn — master of the razzle-dazzle.

" 'Chicago' is a sassy satire dripping with cynicism and dark humor. It throws shade at the justice system and winks at the audience, all while tapping its feet to infectious jazz tunes. Expect show stopping numbers like "All That Jazz," "Cell Block Tango" and "Razzle Dazzle," each one a whirlwind of sass, satire and Fosse — tastic choreography. Whether you're a musical theater buff, a jazz aficionado or just looking for a night of witty entertainment, 'Chicago' is the bee's knees. It's a timeless classic that will leave you humming the tunes, questioning the system and maybe even wanting to dust off your feather boa." — Biff Baron, director

Windber Area: "The Wizard of Oz"

Our journey begins in Kansas with a young girl named Dorothy Gale and her dog Toto. On the farm, she wishes for a place "where the dreams that you dare to dream really do come true." When things take an unexpected turn, she finds herself in a world full of colorful life and people. Traveling through this land known as Oz in an attempt to find her way home, she meets three friends.

The four heroes encounter those who wish to stand in their way, threatening each of them and testing their friendship and fears. All four must discover that perhaps they have had what they seek all along. With their trust in each other, they find wisdom, love, courage and a place that feels like home.

" 'The Wizard of Oz' follows the heartwarming tale from the movie we all know and love. Students in grades 6 through 12 have been working incredibly hard since December to bring this show to life. We hope to see you somewhere over the rainbow."