Howell cast will perform Bernstein’s ‘On the Town’

BY TOYNETT HALL Staff Writer

HOWELL — In 24 hours the lives of three young men could change forever. With hopes to maximize all of life’s thrills in one day, three sailors explore New York City before heading off to fight in World War II.

The classic theme of making the best of the life you are given will come to life for the first time on the Howell High School stage at 7 p.m. Feb. 27-28 and March 6-7 when students present Leonard Bernstein’s 1944 musical comedy “On the Town.”

Vocal director Regina McAllen said “On the Town” is a musical that is rarely performed because of its complex dance numbers and challenging songs.

“In this particular show there are a lot of lead parts. Every cast member must be able to sing, dance and act. This is an opportunity to see a show that may not be seen again because it is rarely performed.”

Director Stephen Kazakoff said that on some levels Bernstein’s work correlates with what is happening in the United States today.

“People should care about this piece because this takes place in 1944, the period of World War II. Back then people had a lot less. They grabbed onto any piece of happiness they could obtain. Everything then was more precious. Although we live in a different time now, just like back then people are trying to rediscover and reprioritize the important things” in their lives, Kazakoff said. “This show is a tribute to all of our servicemen, back then and now. We salute the work they have done.”

Cast members said if nothing else, the show can provide a much-needed escape for people.

“The arts provide an escape from the day-to-day life. It also provides a new means of perceiving,” Kazakoff said. “The arts provide us with the ability to create a perspective on our lives and how we view the whole world.”

Junior Kevin Carillo, 17, plays Chip, a sailor from Peoria. He said works of art were made for the masses and not the elite few.

“The arts are for the people. It’s for everyone. It’s universal,” Kevin said. “It can provide an escape and it can challenge people both emotionally and mentally.”

He said if a performance cannot tap into a person’s core on some level, it is boring.

“It’s a boring show if it doesn’t challenge your moral values or how you view the world,” Kevin said.

Junior Kerri George, 16, plays Hildy Esterhazy, an outgoing New York City taxi driver who gets fired from her post for sleeping on the job. Kerri said the show will remind people “to live their lives to the fullest.”

Tickets for “On the Town” at Howell High School, Squankum-Yellowbrook Road, Howell, will be $12.

The cast of “On the Town” includes Ozzie – Josh Pinns, Chip – Kevin Carillo, Gabey – Corey Mosello, Hildy – Kerri George, Claire – Mary DiGangi, Ivy – Allie Pizzo, Dilly – Megan Lee, Pitkin – Jason Cohen, Lucy Schmeeler – Michelle Sayah, Flossie – Maggie Rodriguez, Flossie’s Friend – Katie Bryck.

Also, Subway Bill Poster – Casey Kulick, Little Old Lady – Paige Mullen, Mr. Uperman – Jon Taylor, Waldo Figament – Kevin Bianchi, Master of Ceremonies – Dan Hietner, First Workman – Neal Rabinowitz, Miss Turnstyles announcer – Zach Miller, Dianna Dream – Amanda Luchento, Dolores Dolores – Amanda Luchento, Rajah Bimmy – Kevin Bianchi, Three New Sailors – Nate Riccio, Harry Block, Jake Shatsky.

Ensemble — Samantha Van Norman, Bree Slaucious, Katie Bryck, Kelsey Bock, Rachel Carnie, Kelly Gonzales, Samantha Pelosi, Brianna Rosado, Analisa DeSeno, Brynn Mosello, Gillian Held, Maggie Rodriguez, Kason Jackson and Andrew Winans.

Dance Corps — Keely Beirne, Melissa Hunt, Jackie Granato, Madison Brown, Abi Vrabel, Kristen Colonna, Melanie Wildman, Taylor Pojero, Marisa Murugan, Victoria Puza, Nate Riccio, Jake Shatsky, Harry Block, Zack Castellani, Kevin Huy, Jon Taylor, Kevin Bianchi and Casey Kulick.