Ridge High to Perform "Curtains" March 5-7

Last week's snow may have slowed down rehearsals for the Ridge High School Drama Club's upcoming production of the musical mystery comedy "Curtains," but the cast and crew were back at work on Saturday.

"Curtains" will open at the Ridge Performing Arts Center this Friday, March 5th at 7 p.m. with additional performances on Saturday evening at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets can be purchased through the Ridge Performing Arts Center on line ticketing system, at Ridge High during lunch in the front lobby between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., at the box office prior to the performances, or by calling (908) 204-2585, ext 855.

"Curtains" first premiered on Broadway in 2007 starring David Hyde Pierce and won the Tony Award for Best Performing Actor. Written by Rupert Holmes, with lyrics by Fred Ebb and music by John Kander, it is a murder mystery set in a Boston theater during  1959, at an out-of-town performance of a show called "Robbin' Hood." A murder occurs and the cast, led by Lt. Frank Cioffi becomes comically embroiled in seeing justice done and saving the show.

Over 60 students, with support from faculty members and parent volunteers, have been involved in some aspect of the production. The principle roles will be played by Jeff O'Donnell as Lt. Frank Cioffi; Lauren Morra as Georgia; Kathleen Pine as Carmen; Christian Fentress as Bobby; Emily Cleary as Niki;  Camie Luckewitcz as Bambi; Nicholas Siccone as Aaron; Peter Hughes as Belling; and Christian Speal as Sid.

Working behind the scenes is a solid crew devoted to sound, lighting, set design/production and costumes. In addition, a student orchestra of over 20 musicians will accompany the cast from the pit.

Elizabeth Siccone, the show's producer, hopes for a large audience turn out from both residents and students.  "There has been an unbelievable turn out of parental support - everything from monetary contributions to costume consulting, advertising sales and tickets sales."

Faculty support comes from Sean Baldwin, director and choreographer,  Daniel Zugale, conductor, Carol Dory, vocal director, Jameson Chin, technical director,  Stephanie Moench, costumes and Laurie Wessley (from Watchung Hills High School) for sound and lighting design.

As will be evident in the "Curtains" program, community businesses have also been supportive with sponsorships and as advertisers. The Red Oak Grill is offering a Dinner and Show promotion; show your "Curtains'" tickets stubs and they will grant you a 10% discount off the a la carte menu during weekdays for March and April.

There will be a preview performance on Wednesday, March 3rd at 7:00 p.m.. Staff members can attend for free and are welcome to bring a guest with a $10 donation. Local area senior citizens are also invited to attend for free.

The Ridge Performing Arts center is located at Ridge High School: 268 South Finley Ave.  General Admission Adult tickets are $20, Senior Citizen $13, Students $10. The Sunday matinee performance is discounted to General Admission Adult at $16, Senior Citizen $10, and Students $8.