The following story was submitted by Lauren McGrail, general manager of Birdhouse Players, NEST Middle School’s drama troupe:
Broadway comes to the Lower East Side February 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th, with six performances put on by the Birdhouse Players. In its second season, the BHP, made up of the school’s students as well as other neighborhood kids, is doubling its output. Two separate casts of the young actors have been rehearsing two classic, Tony-award winning shows: Guys & Dolls and The King & I.
Audiences of all ages are welcome to attend and will appreciate the stories told in both productions. Their similarities are striking: both pit title characters in a struggle – with each other and with their own pride and principle – but along the way they reconcile their conflicts, examine themselves, and accept the quirks and flaws of those vibrant beings they know have colored their hearts. And for all the two shows are alike, they are shockingly dissimilar. The King & I is a classic display of pageantry and regal sophistication while Guys & Dolls is a song-and-dance vehicle of cool camp. The opportunity to see kids embody the lively personalities portrayed in each is certainly unique and can be culturally profound for young audiences.
The productions are directed by veteran actor, singer and director, among many other talented roles, Rana Strazza. Musical Director Scott Ethier is a composer and pianist who writes and performs musical theater, concert works and jazz. And Laura Danette, choreographer, is an Actors Equity member since 1983 who has performed in and choreographed dozens of national productions.
Tickets are on sale now at birdhouseplayers.tix.com ($12). Seats are selected at time of purchase, so purchase soon to get the best seats!
The “Birdhouse Theater” in the NEST+m Auditorium, 111 Columbia Street.
Guys and Dolls: Feb. 9 at 6 PM, Feb. 11 at 7 PM, Feb. 12 at 12 PM
The King and I: Feb 10 at 7 PM, Feb 11 at 3 PM, Feb. 12 at 6 PM
