One of my favorite musicals, The Music Man, is on stage now at the Hale Centre Theatre’s, well, massive stage. The musical, which tells the story of Harold Hill (Keith McKay Evans and Addison Welch) a con-man who convinces a small town to buy instruments and gear to start a marching band, including, of course, “76 Trombones,” is an American classic.
Famously acted by Robert Preston in the 1962 film, The Music Man is a staple of community theater companies and high schools everywhere. The Hale, of course, will kick it up a notch our two with a professional cast.
“The Music Man serves up a delicious slice of American pie if you will,” says Sally Dietlein, HCT vice president and executive producer. “It’s a colorful, frothy, joyful show that teaches how to get along with people and to have faith when it doesn’t seem rational. This play has beautiful themes of the importance of communicating and working through issues to reach that happy ending.”
Hill’s plan to make a quick getaway and move on to the next town to continue his scam falls apart after he becomes acquainted with the town and realizes he cares for the people. Oh also he falls in love with the town librarian, Marian Paroo (Cecily Ellis-Bills and Rachel Woodward Hansen). Hill is torn between staying and risking the town learning the truth or leaving and continuing his nefarious ways.
“I’ve always enjoyed the throwback to Americana of The Music Man and could quote the entire movie when I was young,” says Gary Sorenson, music director. “The iconic songs feature tight harmonies written like a barber shop quartet. Our cast of 31 performers has mastered the music and learned to trust each other with the harmonies. The cast members’ passion for the show is felt whenever they speak, dance or sing.”
The Hale’s rendition of The Music Man runs through June 9, 2018 at the new Mountain America Performing Arts Centre, 9900 Monroe Street in Sandy. Curtain is at 7:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday with matinees Saturdays at 12:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. No children under the age of 5 are permitted in the theater. Ticket prices are $40 for adults and $20 for youth ages 5 through 17.
For ticket information call 801-984-9000, go to www.hct.org, or visit the box office at 9900 S. Monroe Street in Sandy City.
