4th and 5th Grade Knollwood School Drama Club Delights with "Aesop's Musical Foibles"

The 4th and 5th Grade Knollwood School Drama Club presented "Aesop's Musical Foibles" to a packed house in the school's All Purpose Room on the evening of May 5.

"Aesop's Musical Foibles" takes a humorous look at the characters "trapped" inside the head of young Aesop, who would grow up to become the legendary teller of tales. Characters that only the tormented Aesop can see and hear -- the egomaniac Hare, the sluggish Tortoise, the impatient Farmer with the Goose that lays golden eggs, and many others -- come to life onstage in this clever production. 

With help from the Greek Gods as well as his parents, who enlist the Master to lend a hand, Aesop finally finds relief from the endless chatter and bantering. He takes the advice of the Master and gets the characters out of his head -- and into the world -- by writing and sharing their stories.

The cast of "Aesop's Musical Foibles" featured Michael Mazzucca as Aesop, Quinn McManus as the Hare, Timmy Lake as Androcles, Aidan Thorp as the Farmer, Cortland McBarron as the Goose, Sarah Neczesny as the Tortoise, Matthew Cruz as the Boy, and Ryan Giardino as the Wolf.

Brett Cetnar Garrett portrayed the Master.  Aesop's parents were played by Bryn Eustace and Jack Cusick, and Joseph Stypa and Hannah Bates took to the stage as Zeus and Hera.

The 32 student-strong Greek Chorus, led by Knollwood Music Director Vince Mottern, lent their voices to rollicking musical numbers.

The colorful sets were created by Knollwood students under the direction of art teacher Rob Zupko. Students were also responsible for lighting and sound under the guidance of Technology Director and fifth grade teacher Kristen Levy.

Also working behind the scenes to make the performance a success were the Costumes/Makeup and Backstage Crews.

The performance was directed by Sickles School third grade teacher Morgan Brown with help from Tammy Cappello.

Proceeds from the performance were donated to the nearby Ronald McDonald House, located near Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch. Ronald McDonald House is a national organization providing a "home away from home" for young hospital patients and their families.