Rumson-Fair Haven HS Debuts Outdoor Spring Musical Amid COVID

RUMSON, NJ - While the auditorium at Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School remains vacant one year into the coronavirus pandemic, the high school’s musical theater group, the Tower Players, have announced that the show must go on.

Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High School’s spring musical will be presented uniquely this year with a string of performances of Emma! A Pop Musical on an outdoor stage. In preparation for the show, the cast and crew have been eagerly rehearsing virtually at home and in school at outdoor rehearsals (see below for showtime information).

According to a news release from the school district, the musical follows Emma Woodhouse (Isabella Sciortino), a popular senior at Highbury Prep, as she attempts to find love for her shy best friend, Harriet Smith (Kate Kennedy), despite the protests of student and substitute science teacher Jeff Knightly (Aidan Herman). Through songs from iconic female artists such as The Supremes, Shania Twain, Whitney Houston, Katy Perry and more, Emma! A Pop Musical brings a modern twist to the Jane Austen classic.

Related: Amid Pandemic, Raritan HS Drama Club Prevails With Outdoor Play

Advisors leading the young cast in this unprecedented and creative endeavour include KasiAnn Sweeney (Director), Susan Schuld (Assistant Director / Play Production Coordinator), Matthew Leddin (Technical Director), and Amanda Gorfain (Musical Director). Newcomers this year include Catherine “Kitty” Cleary (Costumes Director) and Casey Stolowski (Choreographer).

The show will run for two weekends, on May 14 to 16 and 21 to 22, with a rain date of May 23.

Tickets will be sold exclusively online and all seating will be assigned in order to prioritize the health and safety of the cast, crew, and audience. Tickets will be available for purchase at www.rumsonfairhaven.org in the weeks preceding opening night.