'The Music Man' provides bridge for all ages

McCOOK, Nebraska -- Once again The Southwest Nebraska Community Theater Association is providing a bridge for all age groups by bringing "The Music Man" to the McCook High School Auditorium for the 2 p.m. opening matinee March 13.

The cast has more than 40 performers from several Southwest Nebraska communities. Other show dates are the evenings of March 18, 19 and afternoon of March 20.

Musical director is Evie Caldwell, who is also working with the orchestra that will soon join rehearsals.

Jean Sehnert is the pianist. Choreographer is Keri Ohlson, producer is Christy Stevens and director is Don Harpst.

Doug Ohlson has the lead as Harold Hill, a flim-flam salesman out for a quick buck. Kelsey Siebrandt, a MHS sophomore, is Marian the Librarian. The pair mastered their lines and songs very early and their professionalism is encouraging for the rest of the cast which is also "off book." Another newcomer, Kelly Egle, has become a singer and dancer with his role as Marcellus.

Grade schooler JoAnn Neel, Amaryllis, returns to the SWNCTA stage following last year's "Annie." Candace Coleman has the part of the mayor's youngest daughter, Gracie

Playing young Winthrop Paroo is Gabe Sehnert, an entertainer just like his grandparents, Walt and Jean. He has two solos that melt your heart. His mother, Mrs. Paroo, is Kathy Latta and you will see her as the strong Irish-accented mother.

Four gossipy women known as the Pick-A-Little Ladies, are: JeriLynn Karr, Liz McCarty, Cheryl Scott and Sheryl Havens. They are friends of Mayor Shinn's wife, Eulalie played by Christy Stevens. The mayor is John Havens.

A young couple, Tommy and Zaneeta are played by Alex Roe and Madisyn Garcia The show features the school board and quartet, Don Blank, Charles Coleman, Rus Ankersen and Merlin Brown. Bryce Osterman is the irate salesman, Charlie Cowell. Howard Kool is the constable.

The opening scene features the inside of a 1912 railroad passenger car, complete with all the details thanks to the set crew led by Dian Trail. Characters in this scene are: Jim Coady, Greg Hoffman, Greg Hepp, Mike Gapp, David Sandman, Mark Carman, Mark Latta, Andy Hutchins and Bryce Osterman.

The cast is now rehearsing with some of the set while the remainder is being built by Chuck Trail or painted by several volunteers.

Stage manager is Gene Weedin, assisted by Phil Goodenberger. They are working with the director on a smooth flow from all 18 scenes in the two-act show.

All of the many stage properties have been gathered by Janet Kool. Hugh Holak is developing the lighting program and the sound system will be operated by Chuck Trail.

The River City youths perform several dances and they are: Matt Bade, David Sandman, Andy and Coady Hutchins, Joseph McCarty, Alex Roe, Rachael Gordine, Lexi Gross, Allison Johnson, Karlie Sines, Madisyn Garcia and Tyler Rambalie.

Various townspeople are: Jan Blank, Sarah Brown, Megan Friezen, Jerda Garey, Sarah Jones, Karie O'Brien, Chris Messinger, Mark Latta, Hal Mason, Greg Hepp, Greg Hoffman, Mark Carman, Mike Gapp and Jim Coady. McCarty and Friesen also portray the Iowa farmer couple.

The stage, sides of the stage and the auditorium aisle (beware of Winthrop and his green frog) all become part of the set. The grand finale each night will be the McCook High School Band as they enhance the music from "76 Trombones." SWNCTA is supporting them with $10 per band member per performance to help them raise funds for their next band project.