LIHU‘E — Students from Kaua‘i, Kapa‘a and Waimea high schools are set to tackle “Anything Goes,” the award-winning musical comedy by Cole Porter.
“Of all the musicals I’ve directed, this is my favorite … a funny, entertaining show with fabulous music,” Director Dennis McGraw said.
Presented by Kaua‘i Performing Arts Center, the production opens Friday, and goes on for two weekends at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall.
McGraw said audiences are in for a crazy, clever and funny production.
“Anything Goes” is set aboard the ocean liner S.S. American, where nightclub singer and evangelist Reno Sweeney is en route from New York to England. Sweeney’s friend Billy Crocker has stowed away to be near his love, Hope Harcourt, who is engaged to the wealthy Englishman Lord Evelyn Oakleigh.
“Joining this love triangle on board the luxury liner are Public Enemy No. 13, Moonface Martin and his sidekick-in-crime Bonnie,” states a news release. “With the help of some elaborate disguises, tap-dancing sailors and good old-fashioned blackmail, Reno and Martin join forces to help Billy in his quest to win Hope’s heart.”
Under the direction of McGraw, the Kaua‘i cast consists of students form Kaua‘i, Kapa‘a and Waimea high schools. Choreographers include Marc Sicignano and Sarah Smith, with musical direction by Nina Saraos.
“In my opinion … (Porter) is the finest composer of Broadway music that we’ve every had, and this show is his masterpiece,” McGraw said. “It’s just full of fabulous songs. You can’t beat it.”
“Anything Goes” has been revived twice since its Broadway debut in 1934. McGraw and his cast will perform the revived edition from 1962.
The New York Times called Porter’s production “musical-comedy joy” and USA Today hailed it as “glorious and exuberant.” This revival is the winner of three 2011 Tony Awards, including best musical revival and choreography.
Weekend performances of “Anything Goes” will be held at the War Memorial Convention Hall April 19 to 28. Friday and Saturday shows start 7 p.m., with Sunday matinees beginning at 3 p.m.
Adult tickets cost $10 in advance or $12 at the door, and students tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the door.
Advance tickets are available from cast members and select island retailers, including Birdie’s Café at Kukuiolono Golf Course in Kalaheo, Progressive Expressions in Koloa, Vim ‘n’ Vigor in Lihu‘e, Jim Saylor Jewelers in Kapa‘a and North Shore Pharmacy in Kilauea.
Contact Dennis McGraw at 651-2417 or at Dennis_McGraw/KAUAIDO/HIDOE@notes.k12.hi.us. for more information.
• Chris D’Angelo, lifestyle writer, can be reached at 245-0441 or lifestyle@thegardenisland.com.
