We Want the Company Impressed!

Farmingdale, NY (February 8, 2021)—Be our guest! The Farmingdale High School
Playcrafters proudly presented their rendition of Beauty and the Beast last week. The cast
performed seamlessly with masks throughout all their practices, and even integrated them into the live performance. The audience was limited due to social distancing guidelines, so the district
offered those not able to attend in person the chance to purchase a video recording of the play. Performing a musical during a pandemic was a challenge, but everyone involved rose to the occasion.

“I wanted to choose a musical that was both familiar and uplifting; one that would make
the audience smile,” said Farmingdale High School Mixed Chorus Director, Jessica
Mischke. “We have been rehearsing since the middle of November and although this has
been a very different experience for everyone, we made the best of it!”

The cast was led by NYSSMA honored musicians Gabriella Sferlazza (Belle) and Aidan
Kelly (Beast). The narcissistic villain, Gaston was also played by a NYSSMA honored
musician, Tyler Hothersall. The talented colorful cast of young thespians was rounded out
with an energetic performance by Hailey Batista (Lumiere), Ben Hoffman (Cogsworth),
Rebecca Kenjesky (Mrs. Potts), Ava Lanot (Chip), Brooke Kubelka (Babette), Raniyah
Elguerouat (Madame de la Grande Bouche), Ryan Loughlin (Maurice), Makai Jones
(Monsieur D’Arque), and Kiley Cacace (Lefou).

“Your dedication, time, and effort to think outside the box this year is remarkable,” said
Farmingdale High School Principal, Dr. Samuel Thompson. “The odds were against you to put
together, what proved to be, a wonderful performance, in spite of pandemic protocols,
limited time, and a host of other challenges.”

One of the features that makes Beauty and the Beast a tale as old as time, is its memorable
musical numbers. The orchestra, led by Pit Conductor Ed Kozlowski, serenaded the audience
while Jamie Capasso and Erik Chocianowski’s set design and construction transported us to a
small little French town and enchanted castle.

Director Jessica Mischke and Assistant Director/Choreographer Erik Mischke’s presentation of
Beauty and the Beast was a breath of fresh air. While this story may be a fairy tale, going to the
theatre and seeing the students perform brought a sense of normalcy back to the community.

For more information about the Farmingdale Union Free School District, please visit the
district’s website at https://www.farmingdaleschools... and like our Facebook page:
@FarmingdaleSchoolDistrict.