Scarborough’s own High School Musical

Sir Oliver Mowat’s presentation of Cole Porter’s musical Anything Goes showcased the amazing talent of its students through acting, song and dance.

Trisha Rodricks’s portrayal of Reno Sweeney was phenomenal, with a voice that carried every note to the far reaches of the auditorium and resonated in the hearts of all those in attendance.

“I am amazed at how far we have come,” said director and choreographer Shelly Meichenbaum. “Some these kids have never done anything like this before and look at them now.”

A packed audience of close to 500 was treated to an evening filled with laughs as the cast of 46 ¾ including leads Kenney Mak, Bryan Wilhelm and Haley Midgette ¾ delivered performances at a level of seasoned veterans of the stage.

This is the third musical in recent years presented at Sir Oliver Mowat.

Past productions included Bye Bye Birdie. The revitalization of high school musicals seems to be fueled by films such as Hairspray, Sweeney Todd, and the widely popular Disney High School Musical franchise.

“Students love being a part of the production,” Meichenbaum said. “We have worked since September, practicing four times a week and what you see tonight on stage is the end result.

“After it is all over, many students enroll in our new theatre course who have further interest in theatre and drama.”

“It is one of the most challenging experiences I’ve had,” said Vanessa Kamevaar, who plays Erma. “Constant hard work but so worth it.”

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Posted: Dec 16 2007 12:00 pm
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