Municipal News

Last Updated on Wednesday, 04 April 2018 16:34

“All ashore that’s going ashore!” Theater-goers can follow the purser’s command when the S.S. American docks in the Monessen High School Auditorium for the high school/middle school Group for the Arts production of “Anything Goes,” running from March 22-24.

The cast will sing and dance around a two-story ship; the realistic set, authentic props, and patriotic costumes will immediately submerge audience members into the lighthearted atmosphere.

“The comedy appeals to the audience because everyone needs a good laugh, and every scene has a comedic aspect to it, including a lot of the songs; and it makes people happy to sit and laugh for two hours in a theater with other people doing the same thing,” said Hilary Brown, director and producer.

“Anything Goes” incorporates comedy in a timeless love story that attracts all ages.

“One of the main reasons we wanted to do this show, which is lighthearted, is because the world is so bogged down in craziness,” Brown said. “We wanted to do something for the community that would send them out with a tune and a laugh.”

The musical was originally a book by Guy Bolton and P.G. Wodehouse, written in the 1930s. The music and lyrics were written by Cole Porter.
"Anything Goes" is set aboard the ocean liner S.S. American, where nightclub singer/evangelist — Reno Sweeney (Milana Sacco) — is en route from New York to England.
Her pal, Billy Crocker (Charles Mrlack, III) has stowed away to be near his love, Hope Harcourt (Chloe Miller), but the problem is she’s engaged to the wealthy Lord Evelyn Oakleigh (Albert Johnson).

Joining this love triangle on board the luxury liner are Public Enemy #13, Moonface Martin (Bennett Zboyovsky) and his sidekick-in-crime Erma (Ryan Jordan). With the help of some elaborate disguises, tap-dancing sailors and good old-fashioned blackmail, Reno and Martin join forces to help Billy in his quest to win Hope's heart.

"The show itself is a great musical romantic comedy with funny jokes and great songs that people are familiar with. Just great tunes that people know," Brown said.
Tickets for the show are $14 for adults, $12 for students, and $10 for ages 10 and under. Purchasing advance tickets is recommended, but not required.

Curtain is at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 22 and Friday, March 23 and March 24 at 4 p.m. in the Monessen High School Auditorium, 1245 State Road. Tickets can be purchase online at https://mhsgpa.booktix.com or at the door up until 15 minutes before each performance.