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By Michelle Taylor

On June 23-26, an incredible cast of high school students came together and collaborated on a toe-tapping play at the Grand Theater in Elizabeth. With 23 songs by Elvis incorporated into the play, "All Shook Up" was a one-of-a-kind musical put on with obvious effort and much rehearsing.

The cast of "All Shook Up" gather together for the last song of the night.

A live band of drums, piano, and two guitars aided in the instrumental production of the play was on cue and hit each key with perfection. The play consisted of 17 actors and the plot was about a small country town were a passing-through Elvis-like Romeo falls in love with not only the town, but the town's mechanic, Natalie. During the play, other loves are formed and the characters come together to support one another in their choices.

The main character, Chad, played by Joe Raszewski, connected well with the audience and brought a cheerful disposition to the play. His co-star, Natalie, played by Diana Craycroft, has a brilliant voice and was relaxed and comfortable in her role. Jordan Ploskina brought a refreshing sense of humor to the show with his character, Dennis. Lorraine and Dean, played by Samantha Hawk and Joe Coccia, portray a cute charming country teenage couple. Lastly, Riley Tate played Miss Sandra, the museum director, and brought sophistication and class to a witty and entertaining character.

The theater also hosted a 50/50 raffled that brought in $122 and the winner took home $61. While this is the last show of the year, next year they plan to out do themselves with more interesting plays. The shows are presented by the Mon River Arts Program and teach young budding actors from ages 8 through adult how to capture the hearts of their audiences. Tickets for the plays are roughly $10 each and can be bought in advance. You can contact The Grand Theater at 412-405-8425.

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