Say 'Hello' to Poway High School's 'Bye Bye Birdie'

Flashback to rock-and-roll beginnings and post-war America with students in their production of Bye Bye Birdie, which opens Thursday, Feb. 2 at the .

Set in the fifties, the romantic comedy features 45 cast members, a live orchestra, and a vibrant set. All performances begin at 7 pm., playing Feb. 2-3 and 9-11.

The original production premiered on Broadway in 1960. The show is a good-natured satire on American society in the late fifties, highlighting the generation gap following the arrival of rock-and-roll.

“The creators of the show were having a good-natured laugh at the society in which they were living,” said Director Stephen Knoll-Gentry in a statement. “The humor is always honest, but never cruel.”

The satirical production is choreographed by Amy Knoll-Gentry, and musically directed by PHS choral director Nancy Gray.  The orchestra is conducted by PHS band director Sylvester Sybilski. 

PHS hired Knoll-Gentry to direct and produce the musical. In the past, he directed community theater productions, served on the creative team for Christian Youth Theatre and Kroc Kids. He also teaches acting for kids.

To purchase tickets in advance, visit PHS' website or contact Michele Ulrich at (858) 486-0549 or ulrichfamily@cox.net. Tickets may also be purchased at the door. Cost is $12 for reserved seats, $10 for students, seniors and active-duty military.

In other news, Powegians looking to show-off their talents can head over to Friday for its Open Mic from 5 to 9 p.m.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, there will be bluegrass and old time jams near the Poway Craft Fair in at 9 a.m.