‘The Music Man’ Takes the Stage in Granby

The hard work of nearly 75 students from Granby Memorial High School comes together tonight with a production of Meredith Willson’s "The Music Man."

Director Michael Morgan said auditions were held in December, and since January, the students have been practicing three nights a week to put the show together.

“After watching the rehearsal last night, it’s really coming together,” he said during dress rehearsal Thursday evening. 

Senior Kyle Girard, who plays Jacey Squires, agreed.

“It was a lot of work, especially this week,” he said. But, “It’s going to be a good show.”

Morgan said the cast is excited for opening night to arrive, and credited area businesses and community members for helping the show get to this point. 

“I call it a community effort,” Morgan said. “The community has really been embracing and supporting the show.”

Morgan also noted that there are several siblings that are part of the musical, calling the show “a family affair.”

The musical centers around con-man Harold Hill, played by senior Chris Cutler, who has plans to scam a small Iowa town into buying musical instruments and uniforms so he can walk away with a fortune. However, his plays go awry when he falls in love with the town librarian, Marian. 

With nearly 75 students involved in both the cast and crew, Morgan said there are several seniors who will perform in their last musical at the high school.

“I’m very excited because it is my last musical,” said senior Isabella Dewey, who plays Mrs. Shinn. “I want to kick it off with a bang.”

Cutler, who personifies Hill, said he has been a part of the drama club during his four years at the high school, and the end of the show will prove to be bittersweet.

“I think I’ll probably be pretty sad when it’s over,” Cutler said, but adding that he has enjoyed his time amongst his friends and other cast members. 

GMHS Drama is performing tonight at 7 p.m. and again tomorrow at 2 and 7 p.m. The musical will be performed in the Granby Memorial High School auditorium. Tickets cost $10 for adults and $8 for students.