Local Woman Makes Pro Stage Debut Tonight

Chelsea Friedlander, Long Valley native and proud product of the West Morris Regional High School system, makes her professional stage debut tonight in the Women's Theater Company's of the Fantasticks.

"I must say there is something truly magical about this show," Friedlander said. "The music is beautiful, the story is touching, and there is something for everyone."

The show is the next step in a long journey for Friedlander who . Friedlander began performing with the YPW and the Performers Theatre Workshop in Livingston on top of performing in musicals and plays at Long Valley Middle School. During her four years at West Morris Central, Friedlander was always a featured soloist in Dr. Vincent Rufino's annual andHandel’s Messiah concert, singing the lead soprano solos as well as participating in two of Central's musicals.

Growing up in a house full of music and learning to love opera gave Friedlander a foundation and vocal technique that lead her straight to opera and after college, to graduate school.

This version of the show is close to Friedlander's heart for a variety of reasons. 

"Our production will be unique because we are opening in September which is apropos," Friedlander said. "The beginning of the show starts in the month of September and September holds a 'special mystery' to the characters."

Friedlander said that the playhouse itself will offer a unique experience to the audience.

"The Parsippany Playhouse is extremely intimate and reminds me of the original theatre on Sullvan Street in The Village," Friedlander said. "The intimate setting of the theatre makes the audience feel like they are a part of something special."

For more information on Chelsea Friedlander, visit her website and for more information on the Fantasticks, jump over to the Women's Theater Co.