Staples Players present “Thoroughly Modern Millie”and dedicate the entire season to founding director Craig Matheson
Staples Players proudly presents “Thoroughly Modern Millie” a great family-friendly comedy jam-packed with fun music and big dance numbers! A modern show with a classic feel! Performances will take place in the main stage theatre at Staples High School on November 15th, 16th, 22nd and 23rd at 7:30 PM and on November, 17th and 23rd at 2:00 PM*. “Thoroughly Modern Millie” contains new music by Jeanine Tesori and new lyrics by Dick Scanlan. The book is written by Richard Morris and Dick Scanlan.
The cast and crew are dedicating the entire season of performances to the memory of Craig Matheson - the beloved founder of Staples Players who passed away earlier this year.
Former Staples Player Adam Stolpen (class of 1965) is donating a sculpture from his private collection “All The World’s A Stage” Attributed to Harry Bertoia (1915-1978). “In gratitude for their inspiration and dedicated in memory of Craig Matheson and Steve Gilbert, Staples teachers and founders of The Staples Players”. There will be a dedication ceremony following the Saturday November 23rd matinee performance at 5pm in the courtyard of Staples High School.
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David Roth reflected on Matheson. “Not only was Craig Matheson the founder of Players, but he continued to be a sort of grandfather of sorts to the program. The students continued to know him and look forward to speaking to him after shows - and he never missed a production! He was always actively supporting Players, whether it was talking up shows with the Wise Men, writing touching congratulatory notes and, most memorably, doling out his big, beaming smiles and great hugs to all of the kids. He was truly a special man and affected so many young lives. We are happy to be able to pay tribute to him this season”.
Cast members and crew are enthusiastically tap dancing their way to opening night. Maddy Rozynek, who is one of the two seniors double cast in the title role of MIllie is very excited to perform in the show “I think audiences will love “Thoroughly Modern Millie” not only for its amazing songs, choreography, set design, and costumes, but also because of the immense amount of energy and enthusiasm every cast member brings to the stage as they perform. The cast is super excited about performing this show”.
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Luke Rosenberg is the music and vocal director for the show and Andrea Metchick returns as the choreographer. The technical directors for Thoroughly Modern Millie are Peter Barbieri, jr. and Dave Selzter. Peter Barbieri, jr. also designed the sets for the production.
Priscilla Stampa and Marjorie Watt have once again adorned the cast with multiple elaborate costumes - no easy task with a cast of over 50 students.
Tickets are available for $10 for students and $15 for adults at Staplesplayers.com and will also be available at the door, as available, 30 minutes prior to the show. Cash or checks only accepted at the door.
Tickets can also be purchased in person at the main lobby of Staples HS on Tuesdays through Friday November 5th - 8th and November 11th - 15th from 12:30 to 2PM in the main lobby (cash or check only).
Please consider attending our special Opening Night Gala (6:30 PM to 7:30 PM) and get the best parking spots, receive preferred seating and enjoy a light supper at a pre-show reception! Look for the Opening Night Will Call Gala Tickets online!
*Senior citizen discounted tickets are available for the two matinee performances at 2pm on November 17th and November 23rd.
Please visit staplesplayers.com or call 203-341-1310 for more information and double cast performance schedules.
**Those that wish to make a donation in Craig's memory are invited to donate to the Craig Matheson Scholarship Fund, which will award students in need that are pursuing a post-secondary education in theatre. Checks made to Staples Players can be mailed to SHS/DavidRoth, 70 North Ave, Westport, CT, 06880 and should include "Craig Matheson Scholarship Fund" in the memo line.
Original Story and Screenplay by Richard Morris for the Universal Pictures Film Originally Produced for Broadway by Michael Leavitt Fox Theatricals Hal Luftig
Stewart F. Lane James Nederlander Independent Presenters Network L. Mages/M. Glick Berinstein/Manocherian/Dramatic Forces John York Noble and Whoopi Goldberg
Presented by special arrangement with MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL, 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019 (212) 541-4684
