Theatre troupe opens season with 'Annie Get Your Gun'
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Submitted by James Quatromoni
Hull High Athletic Director/Community Outreach Coordinator
This week’s article is designed to move you. I mean it. I am looking for you to grab the kids and head to Hull High School – right now.
Friday night at 7:30 marks the opening show of 2007 for Hull Music Theatre. Irving Berlin’s “Annie Get Your Gun” will be directed and produced by Mr. Joe Doniger within the walls of the appropriately named Joseph C. Doniger Auditorium. On Saturday, Dec. 8, the cast and crew will follow with 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. shows.
“This show has something for everyone,” Doniger said. “Just like a circus or Wild West show – kids of all ages can enjoy the production.”
Friday night will mark the 30th anniversary of the first time Doniger produced “Annie Get Your Gun” in Hull – that production was the first full-length musical ever performed at the Memorial Middle School.
Mr. Doniger has been leading Hull Music Theatre for over 37 years.
“I’m losing track of just how long it has been,” explains a passionate and driven Doniger. “But I will direct until I am no longer physically or mentally capable of doing so.”
Doniger and his group are clearly passionate and driven in a pursuit of excellence. Nothing will stand between them and an outstanding production. The high school and its students have changed drastically in 37 years – the busy schedules of those young people present interesting challenges to the production, and budget concerns are also a consideration.
Through all of this, Doniger will not sacrifice the quality of the show. Volunteer Sharon Striglio pointed out, “He is determined. [In considering problems or limitations], I always hear him say ‘I won’t change it. The product will be the same. We will do this the best way that we can.’ In some ways, he is a perfectionist.”
No aspect of his production escapes Mr. Doniger’s eye.
“I think he puts as much time into the booklet as he does the show,” said high school business teacher Kathy Bandera, who is responsible for the production of the show’s program.
Music Director Mark Taylor added, “I admire [Doniger] greatly. He seems to work harder than seems possible. He controls everything and clearly cares about these kids.”
As remarkable as Mr. Doniger’s passion and longevity are, it is those kids who should truly move you from your seat.
“This is the highest caliber of cast that I have worked with,” Taylor said. “Their immense talent has helped create a visually spectacular show.”
“Early in the production process, I give the cast a basis of their characters. They are then required to develop their character on their own. Both leads in this show have clearly taken this process to unbelievable lengths,” said Doniger, referring to Colleen Troy, who plays Annie Oakley, and Joe Capen, who portrays Frank Butler.
In talking with Troy, she explained that her castmates are what make the drama experience so rewarding.
“It is incredible. The best part is the people,” she said. “There is no one quite like theatre people. We understand each other. Playing a character is about understanding how people feel. Theatre students are some of the most empathetic that you will meet.”
“He really knows what he is doing – and it is obvious,” Capen commented on working with Mr. Doniger. “The kids listen and work harder. If you do it his way the first time, things will be fine.”
But now we need the hook. What is it going to take to get you to the high school to enjoy this show? The production features countless songs that will have you saying, “I didn’t know that song came from this show,” as Doniger puts it. One of those songs is the Broadway classic, “There’s No Business Like Show Business.” The music for this show is supported by state-of-the-art equipment that is programmed to play all of the instruments that will not be live at the event.
“It’s amazing – and you won’t even know it’s there. The sound is outstanding,” Doniger said.
The cast of 30 has been supported by another 30 volunteers and staff. They have been working for months on rehearsals, costumes, sets, lighting, music, and all those little things that make for a memorable experience.
Over these last few months, I have seen some of the efforts of the staff and cast. Countless hours are spent in preparation. Each of them strives to improve the show and themselves every night. They make considerable sacrifice under the watchful eye of the dedicated, firm advisor. In many ways, the atmosphere mirrors that of an athletic team. Instead of enjoying intense competition, though, spectators are treated to the blending of a cast’s creative skill and ability. Each participant, regardless of role, takes great pride in performance. It is impressive to experience.
Just as importantly, the Hull Music Theatre needs you. Proceeds from this production go directly start-up costs for a potential spring show.
Friday and Saturday are the culmination of months of hard work. Theatre people understand what this means. If you are not a theatre person, consider it this way – for members of Hull Music Theatre, this weekend is the state tournament and Thanksgiving Day football game all wrapped into one. They will be at their absolute best. They want to entertain you.
So, get off the couch – and go enjoy the show. We always appreciate the support.
Tickets are still available by calling 781 925-8001, or they may be purchased at the door. |
