Not Gary, Indiana, or River City, Iowa, but ‘The Music Man' coming to Monroe-Woodbury

Central Valley - Monroe-Woodbury High School’s Drama Club presents “The Music Man” on Friday and Saturday, March 28 and 29, at 7 p.m. and a matinee on Sunday, March 30, at 1 p.m. in the high school auditorium. Tickets are sold at the door: $10 for adults; $8 for students and seniors. “The Music Man” is a musical with book, music and lyrics by Meredith Willson. The show is based on a story by Willson and Franklin Lacey. In 1957, the show became a hit on Broadway and won a Tony Award the following year. The story’s protagonist has a transformation of character, starting out as a con man whose scam is to convince parents he can teach their musically “disinclined” children to play musical instruments, to falling in love with the local librarian and truly caring about the townpeople he is conning. The musical is set in River City, Iowa, in 1912, but the opening scene is on a moving train in which the dialogue of traveling salesmen and the musical background beautifully simulate the bouncy rhythm of the jostling train. On this train ride, the salesmen are discussing the selling potential of Harold Hill (played by Adam LaSalle) without realizing that he is also one of the passengers. Hill gets off at River City only to meet an old foe; Marcellus Washburn (played by Nick Dawson) tells him he will never be able to work “his racket” in this town. Marcellus continues to inform Harold that the main snag in River City is the town librarian and music teacher, Marian Paroo (played by Annette Storckman), a prudent girl, who can be counted upon to see right through Harold’s chicanery. Undaunted, Hill proceeds to arouse the town’s enthusiasm for starting a boys’ band by pointing out the corrupt influence on their children of the local pool parlor. When Marion appears, Harold tries to win her over with his charm, but she brushes him off. But Marian is sentimental as she reveals by speaking to the stars (“Goodnight, My Someone”). Once again the Monroe-Woodbury’s musical production is directed by 20-year veteran, Stacy Hintze, whose unique interpretation has once again produced and outstanding theatrical spectacular. The production is an excellent representation of her teaching efforts and directorial insight. The synergic relationship between director Hintze and vocal director, Dr. David Crone, orchestra director, and technical theatre direction by Rick Conk, and Tom Earl, with production support by Mary Turner, is one reason why Monroe-Woodbury High School’s productions have been so successful over the years. This year’s cast and crew epitomizes the talent Monroe-Woodbury has to offer its community. Had Harold Hill come to this town he would have never been able to con anyone as there is a plethora of talent from both the student body and faculty sponsorship.(Photos by Rick Cronk)