Good News Gets Going

Spring Musical rehearsals are underway

Cast+members+Eleni+Katsas%2C+Bella+Tumolo%2C+Jess+Daninhirsch%2C+and+Anna+Parsons+go+over+choreography+in+the+cafeteria.

photo by Alex Flagg

Cast members Eleni Katsas, Bella Tumolo, Jess Daninhirsch, and Anna Parsons go over choreography in the cafeteria.

Alex Flagg, Co-Editor-in-Chief

NA’s spring musical season has started up, and, for all involved, it’s just the bee’s knees!

This year’s musical, Good News, was a surprise choice for cast members.  Originally written in 1927 and revamped in both 1974 and 1993, the show’s extensive history is deeply ingrained in the charming, if not particularly serious, production.

“It’s really exciting for us to be putting together a piece that is new to all of us, and we can really build it from the ground up,” said Mr. Schmiech, one of the show’s musical directors.  “It’s such a great show, and we’re discovering so many things about it as we get to know how we want to perform it.”

Good News follows star football player Tom Marlowe, played by Evan Diulus, as he attempts to pass a previously failed astronomy test to play in Tait College’s big game.  Tutored by the beautiful but studious Connie Lane, played by Emma Hackworth, he must juggle his academics, his athletics, but, most importantly, his falling in love with her.  A show filled with flappers, cheerleaders, and Prohibition struggles, its vintage vibes set it to be a hit.

Despite the glamour, though, many members of the cast weren’t convinced at the start.  

“I have to admit, upon first hearing about this show, my first thought was, ‘What?’ because literally nobody knew what it was,” said Robby Yoho, who plays a shy member of the football team.  “Now, I am so thankful that this, along with the truly accidental level of success for Spelling Bee, get to comprise NASH’s shows for this school year. Truly proud to be a Tiger, onstage and off.”

As rehearsals begin, cast members find themselves already excited to perform in March.

Since starting the process, I, as well as many others, have come to love this show and its cheeky humor, playful timing, and unique musical quality that North Allegheny shows don’t typically play with,” said Natalie Daninhirsch, who plays Tom’s strict astronomy professor.  “I’m thrilled to be in the role that I am in, and I sincerely cannot wait for our performances.”

Good News runs from March 11-17.  Tickets go on sale February 10.