Irving A. Robbins Middle School will be presenting the musical "Bye Bye Birdie" this weekend in the school auditorium. And during Thursday's dress rehearsal, students and parents were buzzing about the production's incredible quality.
The second- to fourth-grade cast of East Farms School's Cinderella production was among the Thursday audience.
"They're as good as grown-ups," said one second-grader. Outside the auditorium students leaned in to watch the show.
Find out what's happening in Farmingtonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
"Wow, he's professional-good," one boy said to his friend, referring to Andre Bernier, who plays Albert Peterson.
The show is set in 1958 and tells the story of a rock star's departure for World War II after being drafted. Loosely based on Elvis Presley's draft, the musical spotlights Conrad Birdie's enamored young fans - a host of teenage girls in poodle skirts and ponytails.
Find out what's happening in Farmingtonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
In addition to the choreographed chorus numbers, students Andre Bernier and Danielle Hoffman shine as the couple Albert Peterson and Rose Alvarez, whose own storyline parallel's Conrad's departure.
The show is directed by IAR science teacher Sharon Becker, choreographed by Donna Bonasera and Musical Director is Dr. Michael Yachanin.
The show will run Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Performances frequently sell out. Anyone interested in tickets may call 860-677-2683, ext. 1253.
A portion of this year's proceeds with be donated to support the Alex Franklin Foundation.
