NORWICH – The Norwich High School Musical Club will present The Adventures of Tom Sawyer this weekend, April 12-14, from the Norwich High School auditorium stage. Friday and Saturday’s shows will begin at 7:30 p.m., while Sunday’s matinee performance begins at 2:30 p.m.
“This is a story I grew up with. I remember seeing the movie at the drive-in, watching the weekly series and reading the book by Mark Twain. This musical version has a very home grown feel,” said producer and director Mark Sands, who noted this is his twenty-first musical production. “Those familiar with Tom Sawyer will recognize a number of scenes - the white washing of the fence, the graveyard scene, and the cave scene.”
Sophomore Ryan De Tomi, who’s been involved with local musicals since the sixth grade and plays Tom Sawyer, stated, “Having the experience to be a lead, especially so early, has been wonderful. I’m grateful for the opportunity to show what I’ve got.”
Kristen French, a senior at NHS who is portraying Becky Thatcher, added, “I really like that it’s different from the other shows we’ve done. No one thought this would be the one that would be picked. It really has charm, and I like it.”
Senior Kristi Orioli, who plays Aunt Polly, stated that she is very excited to see how everything comes together. Another cast member said he is ready to show everyone what they’ve been working hard on for months.
Josh Seeley, an NHS junior, added, “I really enjoy performing and I like the accomplished feeling inside afterward. After four months of preparation, it’s nice to get on stage and have that great feeling.”
Seeley is playing the role of Judge Thatcher and has been in four previous musicals.
The villain of the show is played by Colin Burlison, a senior involved with the annual NHS musical since the eighth grade, who stated, “I like the creepiness I get to portray. It’s mostly a lighthearted show but with my character Injun Joe I get to bring in a little of the dark side.”
Senior Joshua Dye commented, “The applause we get at the end is so gratifying. We’ve been working very hard on this for so long, and I really hope people enjoy the show.”
Sands added, “This truly is a musical that is family friendly, and we encourage everyone to come check it out.”
It is clear that the entire cast and crew have worked incredibly hard, and based on the glimpse I was able to see, it should prove to be a terrific performance – well worth the small admission fee – and a great way to spend part of your weekend.
Tickets for the show can be purchased at the Norwich High School, Norwich Middle School, Perry Browne and Gibson School offices. Those wishing to attend can also get their tickets at Service Pharmacy in downtown Norwich. Tickets are $5.00 for general admission. Friday and Saturday’s show time is 7:30 p.m. Please note, if you purchased tickets for Sunday’s matinee show, the time printed on the ticket is incorrect. The correct time for Sunday’s performance is 2:30 p.m.