By Jenna Kunze, Staff Writer
ALLENTOWN — Allentown High School next week will open its production of “Children of Eden,” a two-act musical based on the Bible that explores human nature, love and the relationship between parents and children.
The play is based on the Book of Genesis — Act 1 is the story of Adam and Eve and Act 2 the story of Noah and the Ark — but the play does not preach religion. Instead, it takes a familiar story and views it from a different perspective by focusing on the dynamics of family relationships and showing the Biblical characters as ordinary people.
The play was selected for the AHS musical by director/choreographer Nicole Machin and musical director Mark Megill because of its profound and challenging musical score. Tony Award-nominated composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz, whose Broadway hits include “Wicked” and “Godspell,” wrote the music and lyrics for “Children of Eden” as well.
Forty-five students have been rehearsing since early December for this production, which opens at the high school auditorium on Thursday, March 1 with additional performances on March 2 and March 3.
” I can’t wait until opening night,” says Katie Cann, who plays Eve.
Katie, a senior, has been involved with the spring musical since her freshman year of high school and has performed in shows as diverse as “Rent” and “Les Miserable.” When this year’s play selection was first announced, Katie said she was unsure about doing a “religious” musical. Three months later, however, she now views the show as a touching story about people growing up, making mistakes, and facing them with those they love.
”I think the Bible’s a more interesting story when there’s music put to it,” Katie says.
Both Mr. Megill and Ms. Machin agree that this play transcends religion.
”God is God, yes, but God is also a father. A father with kids. Kids who he’s got to deal with,” Mr. Megill laughs.
Mike Oliu, senior, has taken on this tricky role. When asked how it feels to play the Almighty, Mike says: “In this show God seems to be more of a maternal character. Instead of being just an omnipotent character, which is hard for an audience member to grasp, he has a range of emotions and seems like a real person who happens to have God’s powers.”
Student Will Olexsak, cast as both Adam and Noah, says, “I think all the plays in the past have been great. People should trust Machin and Megill’s judgment and come see this musical!”
Tickets for “Children of Eden” are now on sale now and can be ordered by calling 609-259-7292 extension 1448. The cost is $8 for students and $9 for adults if ordered in advance, and $10 at the door.

