Strike Up the Band! "The Music Man" is Coming to Town

The Simsbury Summer Theatre (SST) presents the classic, fun-for-all-ages Broadway musical, “The Music Man,” on August 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th. This is the 51st year for the non-profit, self-funded organization. SST provides a comprehensive theatre experience for high school and college students; members come from towns all over the Farmington Valley and Western Massachusetts. Many alumni have gone on to star on Broadway as well as regional and national show tours.

Charlie Uthgenannt, a first time participant at SST, is looking forward to playing the lead tenor in the barbershop quartet. “It’s so exciting to work with such a talented group of my peers who enjoy theater as much as I do.” While this is his first time with SST, Charlie started acting in the fifth grade in a Jewish Community Center production of “Oliver!” and participates in theater every chance he gets. He plans on pursuing musical theater professionally someday.

Zöe Eisenhaure, who plays Ethel Toffelmier, started acting in an afterschool drama club when she was in first grade. The Music Man is the fourth show with SST. When asked why people should come see this production, she said, “It’s a classic show that’s enjoyable for all ages.” Zöe will be a senior this fall at Simsbury High School.

The Music Man’s plot revolves around con man Harold Hill (played by Andrey Vdovenko) who poses as a bandleader. He convinces the naïve townsfolk of River City, Iowa to purchase musical instruments for their children, promising them music lessons in return. Though Marian the librarian (played by Kate Campolieta) realizes he’s bamboozling the residents, she begins to fall in love with him and Harold risks discovery to win her heart. The beloved family-friendly musical, with its charming, delightful story, fabulous dance numbers (tap included!), memorable songs such as “Ya Got Trouble,” “Till There Was You,” and “Seventy-Six Trombones,” provides all-American fun for every age!

Tickets are available online at www.simsburysummertheatre.org. Tickets are also available at the box office at Westminster School’s Werner Centennial Theater on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Adult tickets are $18 and tickets for children and Seniors (65+) are $15. Tickets may also be purchased by calling 860-480-0951. The show starts at 7:00 p.m. on August 3rd, 4th and 5th and on August 6th at 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.