One wouldn’t think a 1940s movie like “On the Town” would have create such a stir among the trendsetting teenagers of today’s time. But at Lakewood Ranch High School, the drama students are walking around with jazzy tunes in their heads and curlers in their hair, ready for their close up.
The drama department is putting an end to third quarter with a bang with their musical production of “On the Town.”
Who could forget the classic film that had a talent-packed cast with big names such as Frank Sinatra, Gene Kelly, Betty Garrett and Ann Miller singing and dancing their way into your memories?
“On the Town” is about three sailors named Gabey, Chip and Ozzie, who are on a 24-hour leave in New York City. Gabey sets his mind on finding the beautiful “Miss Turnstiles o’ the Month” with one glance at her picture, Chip falls into the hands of a quirky lady cab driver, and Ozzie becomes the interest of a pretty anthropologist. The Big Apple will be just the fun and romantic night they were seeking.
“It’s a lot of serious work. But then there are times when we’re on the floor laughing with tears streaming down our faces,” said sophomore Madison McDonald. “On the Town” is the first musical she’s been involved in at LWRS.
Many of the drama students involved feel this is the best production they’ve been a part of all year. All the cast and crew have very demanding schedules, attending rehearsals at least four days a week, having those rehearsals last from after school to 9 or 10 p.m. Drama teacher and advisor Roxanne Caravan ensures that her pupils always put on the best performance possible.
“Mrs. Caravan does a great job at bringing out the best in you as a performer,” said Illana Simone, playing Ivy Smith. “I know I’ve grown to really connect to the character.”
Some of the stars of the Lakewood performance include junior Dane LaFemina, John Marana and Ilana Simone. The music is by Leonard Bernstein, the music and lyrics by Betty Comden and Adolph Green, with the book based on an idea of Jerome Robbins. And the cast will have some members of the school band and orchestra play the music.
With fun dance sequences, hit songs like “New York, New York” and old-fashioned humor, the audience is sure to be captivated. Performances of “On the Town” include a sneak peek at 7 p.m. today, with $5 tickets available to LRHS students and staff. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, with two performances, 2 and 7:30 p.m., Saturday. Tickets for the main run are $10 for adults and $5 for children and LRHS students.
Email Story
Printer Friendly 
Quick Job Search
@Nyx.replyAnswerText@