It’s “Curtains” At Clarkstown South This Weekend

About 30 Clarkstown South High School students take to the stage in this weekend’s performances of "Curtains." Musical Director Kip Bonsignore said the show was chosen for its fun, lighthearted story line, great roles and use of a large ensemble.  

“The challenges lie in the many dance and production numbers that involve most of the cast,” he said.

In addition to the cast, 12 students work in the stage crew and another 20 play in the orchestra. Auditions were held right after Thanksgiving and rehearsals began in
mid December.  Bonsignore said the performers and others have been making use of every minute. 

“The students have really risen to the occasion learning a number of songs and dances in a short period of time,” he said.  “It has been inspiring to watch their commitment to the rehearsal process.”

He shared the storyline behind Curtains.

“The story unfolds when Jessica Cranshaw, the terribly untalented lead in a Boston musical production, drops dead on stage during the opening night curtain call.  It is determined that she was murdered and that the crime had to have been committed by someone in the cast. Lieutenant Cioffi quarantines the theater in order to conduct a thorough investigation and music, dance, blackmail, more murders and hilarity ensue.”

Cristina Farruggia directs the Centerstage production. Justin Boccitto serves as the choreographer, Chantale Bourdages provides the set and artistic design and Kwame Tucker manages the lighting design.

Tickets cost $12 for adults and $10 for seniors and students for the performances on Friday March 15 and Saturday March 16 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, March 17 at 2 p.m. Tickets can be bought at the door or be reserved in advance by contacting Alanna Meshberg at jam123@optonline.net.

Rupert Holmes wrote the book, John Kander wrote the music and Fed Ebb wrote the lyrics for Curtains.