Seventy-six trombones will take to the stage at Hopkinton Middle High School tomorrow night. Students will be performing the classic show, The Music Man.
Con salesman Harold Hill, played by Sam Needleman, arrives in a small Iowa town, hoping to make a buck selling instruments and uniforms to the residents, promising to teach the band music (even though he’s no musician.)
Librarian and piano teacher Marian Paroo, played by Cassidy Donohoe, sees through his act, but her feelings toward him soften after he helps her little brother.
“It’s one of those classic musicals that has wonderful music that people know and love,” said director Paula Demers. “We also always need a show that has a big cast because we are fortunate enough to have so many kids who want to be a part of the musical so we need a show that can accommodate that.”
Demers said it was challenging to find students to sing in barbershop harmony, but Erin Donahue, Colby Malcolm, Brianna Sink and Gerry Donahue were up to the challenge.
Music teacher Bridgett Gattie acted as musical director for the show. Hopkinton alumna Lauren Maynard directed choreography.
“Sam Needleman has the perfect charisma for the part and does a masterful job of bringing Harold to life,” Demers said. “Marian Paroo has a handful of gorgeous solos that Cassidy (Donohoe) performs in such an elegant and beautiful way. She has an enchanting voice and it is a delight to listen to her sing.”
Demers said the cast’s favorite scenes are a duet between Harold Hill and Marcellus Washburn, Harold’s friend and a reformed con man, played by Keegan Sorel. They also enjoy whole ensemble routines.
Shows will be Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m. at the school auditorium. Tickets are $10 or $8 for students and seniors. To reserve tickets, email teamdonohoe@comast.net.