Students prepare for musical

By Lori Szpelak

Correspondent

CHICOPEE Area residents who enjoy Broadway show tunes won't want to miss this spring's "Bits of Broadway II" by the Holyoke Catholic High School's Performing Arts Club.

Performances are scheduled during Mother's Day weekend, May 9 - 10, in Veritas Auditorium at Elms College in Chicopee. Show time is 7:30 p.m.

"Bits of Broadway II" was chosen by Eva Stockhamer, director and choreographer of the Performing Arts Club, and Dr. Todd Rovelli, musical director, for several reasons, but especially because the songs and dances are "fun."

"We did a Bits of Broadway two years ago the same weekend and it was well received by the audience as something to bring mom to," Stockhamer said during an interview with Reminder Publications. "We also wanted to do a third show for the season and the kids really wanted to do something with music."

Stockhamer explained the show is an ensemble cast, but some seniors will be performing "Seasons of Love" from the Broadway show "Rent." Highlights will also include dance and vocal numbers from "All Shook Up" and "Hairspray."

"Area residents should go to see how talented these high school students are," Stockhamer said, adding, "we have put together a diversified program of songs and dances so there will be something for all who enjoy Broadway."

Cast members include Ashley Aliengena, Molly Ankiewicz, Stephanie Brault, Ashley Butler, Meghan Dumas, Alyssa Fondakowski, Bryan Garcia, Hannah Garvey, Julie Geoffrey, Larissa Hayden, Maggie Johnson, Meaghan Knightly and Dan Krafcik. Also, Catherine Leonard, Jenn Murray, Nathan Murphy, Kevin O'Connor, Patrick O'Connor, Samantha Orlando, Mara Palma, Matt Pollette, Bryan Pytka, Adam Quinn, Lisa Rizzo, Brianna Stockhamer, Ben Viens and Amy Vieira.

Working behind the scenes on the two-hour production includes Dr. Frank Croke, lighting director, Daryll Geoffrey, backstage manager, and a host of students serving as backstage crew members.

Proceeds raised from ticket and concession sales will benefit the arts club's fall production of "Annie."

Tickets will be available at the door and are $8 for students, seniors and moms, and $10 for all others.