OPENING NIGHT PHOTOS: Oliver is On Stage at GHS Black Box

It’s that time of year again, and this time, Miss Cirigliano’s ‘On Stage’ class has selected “Oliver” for their annual Broadway Musical Workshop Production in the black box theater.

Natalie Wallington as Nancy, and Jean Gordon as Oliver. Credit: Leslie Yager

On Wednesday afternoon, several cast members shared their perspective on the show, as well as the theater experience at GHS.

“It’s a family within a school,” said Colin Lauritano of the theater department.

“I’ve been doing On Stage since I was a freshman,” said Kristen Ragusa. “This is where we’ve made all our friends.”

What’s unique about the On Stage class is that while there are plenty of freshmen who sign up, the upperclassmen, many who are members of the school’s Thespian Troupe 243, still participate and help the younger students.

As for “Oliver,” the part of Oliver is played by multiple girls, as there are multiple casts. The part of Fagin, not to be confused is played by Oliver.

Oliver Prose, that is.

Prose, who recently performed the part of King Lear in the annual Shakespeare play, said while everyone is welcome to all shows, “Oliver” is the ideal family play.

Pointing to his caged bird is Nick Kach as Fagin in “Oliver.” Credit: Leslie Yager

Santi MacLean as Fagin with Jean Gordon as Oliver. Credit: Leslie Yager

Grace Barber as Fagin, Jean Gordon as Oliver and Natalie Wallington as Nancy. Credit: Leslie Yager

Carly Pollistina, Natalie Wallington, Grace Barber, Kristen Ragusa and Patty Kohn. Credit: Leslie Yager

Kristen Ragusa and Patty Kohn. Credit: Leslie Yager

It’s an 1-3/4 hours long, with an intermission, according to director Patricia Cirigliano, who said this year the schedule is simplified with just four days, two performances each day: 4:30pm and 7:30pm.

“You could even bring a five year old to this show,” said Prose.

“It’s got a little of everything. Singing, drama, comedy,” said Patty Kohn. “You’ll definitely laugh a lot,” she promised.

Come support the hard work of the GHS theater students. Performances are at 4:30pm and 7:30pm on Wednesday, Dec. 10; Thursday, Dec. 11; Friday, Dec. 12 and Sat. Dec. 13.

Tickets are just $10. Make a reservation by calling: (203) 863-8808.