42nd Street
at Boca Raton Community High School

Reviewed on March 1, 2014

Maria Moncaliano
The Sagemont School
Submitted for publication to

On the stage of the 42nd Street Theatre an anxious cast of actors, singers, and dancers, tap the day away for a shot at director Julian Marsh's next Broadway hit "Pretty Lady." Money is tight, tensions are high, the lead is a diva, the director a tyrant, and newbie Peggy Sawyer is fighting her way to Broadway. A story for the underdogs, Boca Raton High's production of "42nd Street" is a celebration of musical theatre and all of the backstage dedication, drama, and passion that contribute to its success.

Music by Harry Warren, lyrics by Al Dubin, and book by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble, "42nd Street" opened on Broadway in 1980. Based on the 1933 film adaptation of Bradford Ropes' original novel, the show was nominated for eight Tony Awards and won two, including Best Musical (1981).

Peggy (Celina Demeo) is a first-timer who dreams of dancing on Broadway. After a cruel rejection from Julian Marsh's (Brendan Feingold) newest musical "Pretty Lady," Peggy unexpectedly snags a part in the chorus. Aging starlet Dorothy Brock (Stephany Goulart) buys herself the lead role but threatens to put the show at financial risk. Marsh fights to keep the show together, but a catastrophic accident may mean the most important production of his life may come to a tragic close, unless Peggy can help it.

Led by Feingold as Julian Marsh, "42nd Street" is an enthralling spectacle of dance and song with intricate dance sequences, large showstoppers, and extravagant costumes. A show within a show, the performers seamlessly maneuvered their characters' personalities while making them shine ever brighter during performances of "Pretty Lady."

Feingold possessed remarkable stage presence as the dictatorial director of a soon-to-be Broadway hit. He expertly expressed his desperation for the show's success, constant stress, and growing passion for Peggy. His voice shined in the cast's harmonious rendition of "Lullaby of Broadway."

Demeo exhibited every aspect of youth, hope, and liveliness as the sweet new chorus girl who is willing to step up for the sake of the show. Demeo used her charm and innocence to remind the old director why he loves in theatre in the first place.

Demeo and Feingold developed a believable and ardent offstage romance. From start to finish, both actors organically contributed to each other's development and change.

Eliana Meyerowitz (Maggie Jones) displayed a strong voice and natural charisma as the veteran playwright. Her sharp tongue and easygoing demeanor breathed comedic life into the tense atmosphere that encompassed much of the backstage action.

Kyle Laing (Billy Lawlor) was expressive, dramatic, and comedic while executing complex dance routines and belting beautiful solos. Laing possessed a natural flair with exquisite command of his space. A knack for comedic timing, Laing exemplified the fun and flair of life in theatre.

The ensemble's liveliness plowed through volume inconsistencies. The cast was never out of character and always in step, accomplishing elaborate routines in entertaining numbers such as "We're in the Money." The hair and makeup crew's (Joane Compas, Casey Carotenuto, and Rachel Morres) impressive 1930s design added a uniform aesthetic element to the production.

Boca Raton High's stellar cast revived a much loved Broadway classic while reminding us of the true meaning of "Musical Comedy." As Julian Marsh puts it, "the most glorious words in the English language!"

Nick Lopez
Cypress Bay High School
Submitted for publication to

There's little need for traffic or plane tickets to go to Broadway when one can simply take a little known shortcut to Boca Raton Community High School. From the rise and fall of stars to the romances and tragedies in between, there is no way of knowing what will happen in 42nd Street--but rest assure, that it will be done with near-professional caliber, as Boca Raton's versatile performers tap and belt their way through this successful homage to Broadway's brilliant and vivacious 1930s.

Adapted from the 1933 film in 1980 and becoming an instant success, 42nd Street won the Tony Award for Best Musical and ran for 3,486 performances. Set in a Great Depression stricken 1930s New York City, it follows the journey of a stage musical from auditions to opening night as a famed but broke director, past-her-prime actress, and hopeful newcomer fight to keep their dreams alive amidst the ruthless glamour of show business.

Boca Raton's large but commendable cast and ensemble shared a unanimous understanding of the presentational style of the show and executed this accordingly with commendable energy. Rigorously difficult, lengthy and frequent tap routines were performed dazzlingly and extremely impressively by performers who sustained character and stunning group vocals throughout. All actors disappeared into 1930s personas seamlessly, showing full command of appropriate characterization, diction, physicality, and age distinction.

Celina Demeo led the show as Peggy Sawyer, boasting both remarkable dancing ability and spectacular vocals. Demeo became heart of the show, a feat attributed to her ability to connect with the audience and find the tenderness of her character despite the superficial nature of show's style. Demeo had wonderful and believable chemistry with Brandan Feingold, who played Julian Marsh, the director Pretty Lady. Feingold found the perfect balance of impatience, stubbornness, and humanity in his character that helped him create the most gratifying and well-executed character arc in the show.

Kyle Laing dominated the stage and flaunted his triple threat abilities as Billy Lawlor, the cocky and eccentric male lead of Pretty Lady. Radiating stage presence and charisma, Laing's performance was an immersive juggling act of exceptional and hilarious characterization, jaw-dropping dancing ability, and powerhouse vocals that nailed the irresistible cockiness and confidence of the character.

The desperate verve of the 1930s was perfectly captured by a rich, three-dimensional hair and make-up design that worked excellently with the multifaceted, cleanly-executed and creative lighting design, which in turn manipulated the mood and energy of the show extremely effectively. An imaginatively disguised stage crew worked seamlessly through challenging set changes, and although the orchestra sometimes overwhelmed dialogue and vocals, sound was clear and very well managed.

Only the most skilled can travel through 42nd Street and come out unscathed, but Boca Raton had no scarcity of talent and enthusiasm to make the trip a memorable spectacle. Hear the beat of the dancing feet at their extravagant auditorium _ followed by the the fanatical applause of an audience hungry for more .

Kayla Fast
JP Taravella HS
Submitted for publication to

Come on along and listen to the lullaby of Broadway! You don't have to travel hundreds of miles to the Big Apple to come and meet those dancing feet; they're alive and well in Boca Raton Community High School's phenomenal production of "42nd Street".

Based on the 1933 feature film of the same name, "42nd Street" is the Broadway classic tale of young Peggy Sawyer and her rise from chorus girl to opening night sensation. This toe-tapping musical premiered at the Winter Garden Theatre in 1980, becoming a smash-hit. It won numerous awards including the Tony and Olivier for Best Musical and also the Tony for Best Revival in 2001.

With a live orchestra and cast of over forty, the energy in the Kathryn Lindgren Theatre was astounding, especially in the ensemble tap numbers "We're in the Money" and "Forty-Second Street". Not only was this production's fancy footwork fantastic, but so were the ensemble's powerful vocals. Tight harmonies were evident in almost every number, most notably in the male quintet section of "Lullaby of Broadway"

Starring as ingenue Peggy Sawyer was Celina Demeo, whose demure stature and sweet face graced the stage with an angelic air. Demeo showed her versatility as an actress, transforming from little Peggy Sawyer to bonafide superstar. Playing opposite Demeo was Brendan Feingold as the renowned director, Julian Marsh. Feingold commanded the stage with every step he took, bringing his bold presence and crisp diction to each scene. Feingold also showcased his vocal prowess in his closing number.

As brassy co-writer Maggie Jones, Eliana Meyerowitz delivered a warm comedic presence to the stage. Meyerowitz seemed to have no trouble molding into the age of Maggie. As "one of Broadway's better juveniles", triple-threat Kyle Laing perfectly portrayed leading man Billy Lawlor. Laing hands-down was the best dancer of the night, extending each leg to the back of the theatre. Laing also showed an impressive knack for comedic timing, prowling the stage with his cocky demeanor.

Stage crew lead by Kelsey Powers was as efficient as can be. All set changes were quick and quiet. Lighting design by Lizzy Chapman and crew helped set the tone and establish the mood for each scene. Most impressive was an Act I number "Shadow Waltz" that used spotlights to create shadows on the cyclorama.

In the heart of little old Boca Raton, you'll find terrific toe-tappers, shining singing stars, and the most magnificent high school production of "42nd Street" by Boca Raton Community High School.

Neil Goodman
North Broward Preparatory School
Submitted for publication to

We all love a story where a happy-go-lucky underdog overcomes impossible odds and fulfills her dream. In this tale full of fortuitous ankle fractures, eager ingénues, and problematic paramours, the tap-happy Peggy Sawyer gets the opportunity of a lifetime in Boca Raton Community High's phenomenal production of 42nd Street.

Originally a 1933 film, 42nd Street, with music and lyrics by Harry Warren and Al Dubin, has won numerous Tony awards including Best Musical and Best Choreography. Set in 1933, the story follows young tap dancer Peggy Sawyer in her miraculous journey from lame to fame on Broadway.

Playing the aforementioned Peggy Sawyer, Celenia Demeo's loveable characterization and powerful vocals made her character a joy to watch. Coupled with her commendable dancing ability, Demeo also exhibited convivial chemistry with many of her fellow actors. Brendan Feingold portrayed the determined yet inspiring director Julian Marsh with incredible believability and charisma. Feingold always had command of every scene he was in, and his clear vocal talent served as icing on the cake of an expertly crafted character.

A clear powerhouse standout, Kyle Laing's outstanding voice and precise dance moves allowed him to do the leading man Billy Lawlor justice. In addition, Laing's energetic characterization made him a true triple threat and a highlight of the performance. Providing a barrage of laughter whenever she spoke, Eliana Meyerowitz's impeccable comedic timing and sharp delivery made Maggie Jones a delightful surprise. Playing the aging starlet Dorothy Brock, Stephany Goulart deftly hit every note with grace in her many challenging solos.

Looking at tech, the show ran incredibly smooth without any holdups whatsoever. Tasteful and effective lighting schemes added to many of the show stopping musical numbers, especially in the mesmerizing "Shadow Waltz". Despite a few inconsistent levels, sound was admirably executed. All light, fly, and sound cues were adeptly called on time, and the stage crew was delightfully invisible during the entire performance.

Throughout much of the performance, it seemed like real Broadway stars were performing, not high school students. Since all performers were expertly proficient in tap, this dance-heavy musical was a constant pleasure. Although some characters seemed underdeveloped and pacing was off at some points, the show's many amazingly executed musical numbers made up for any small fault. A surprisingly large group of incredibly proficient performers allowed the show's daunting musical numbers to retain their original Tony-winning grandeur.

The unbelievably talented students of Boca Raton Community High should take immense pride in their seemingly professional production of 42nd Street.

Marco Tzunux
South Plantation High School
Submitted for publication to

A diva and an ingenue struggle to live their lives while a massive production of Pretty Lady is depicted from rehearsals to the complete and elaborate final productions in Boca Raton Community High School's magnificent production of 42nd Street.

With a book written by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble, music by Harry Warren, and lyrics by Al Dubin, 42nd Street takes the concept of a spectacle and raises it to a whole new level. The show follows the struggles of staging a broadway production during the Great Depression and finds jealousy, aspirations, and love along the way.

At the center of the fold is Peggy Sawyer. Her battle to become a star is wonderfully depicted by Celina Demeo. Good vocals and an even greater dance presence brought her depiction of the character into reality. Brendan Feingold's portrayal of the slightly rough-around-the-edges Julian Marsh helped strengthen the chemistry between both characters and lifted the energy of the show even more.

Outstanding vocals and poise displayed by Stephany Goulart, playing Dorothy Brock, pushed the arrogant diva's character to a joyful extreme. Kyle Laing, playing Billy Lawlor, served as one of the strongest and most committed actors of the entire show. An outstanding dance technique and even more breathtaking vocals allowed Laing to sell his character from the very first word he uttered on stage.

A comedic and believably aged delivery of Maggie Jones (portrayed by Eliana Meyerowitz) added a delightful new level to the show. This, combined with a wholeheartedly committed ensemble, lifted spirits and solidified each scene they were in.

Overall, every technical aspect of the show was spectacular. Props fit the period and were amply used by the actors. The run crew went virtually unnoticed during each scene shift. Of all, the most commendable aspect of tech would be the lighting design. Finely coordinated and focused, every isolation and cue was never missed and was always precisely called.

From backstage to opening night, Boca Raton Community High School's grand, grand, grand production of 42nd Street will not disappoint.

Casey Hernandez
JP Taravella HS
Submitted for publication to

Sweat, hard work, and rigorous tap creates a striking image when the curtain opens to reveal "those dancing feet", an iconic introduction to the high-spirited, grand production of "42nd Street" performed by the students of Boca Raton Community High School.

Originally a 1933 film, "42nd Street" was adapted into a Broadway production in 1980 at the Winter Garden Theatre. The musical played for 3,486 performances and won the Tony Award for Best Musical and still remains one of the longest running musicals in Broadway history. The story follows the Broadway dreams of a young girl named Peggy Sawyer who misses her chance at auditioning for 1933's brand new musical, "Pretty Lady." That is, until she catches the eye the famous director of the show, and earns her spot into the chorus. Peggy takes us through her adventures from being the underdog to becoming the leading lady.

The large ensemble cast handled the dance intensive show incredibly well since tap dancing is no easy feat. The company showed off some of their best performances in songs like "We're In The Money." The cast captivated the audience with a truly entertaining performance from beginning to end, never ceasing in energy or enthusiasm.

Celina Demeo was delightful as the new naive chorus girl, Peggy Sawyer. Demeo portrayed the role with a sweet nature and satisfying singing and dance. As the infamous, notorious director, Brendan Feingold portrayed Julian Marsh with a demanding presence, charisma, and obtained the strongest articulation in the show. Feingold also surprised the audience with impressive vocals in "Lullaby of Broadway Reprise." Demeo and Feingold kept inevitable chemistry that built with levels throughout the production.

Supporting the leads were Billy Lawlor, played by Kyle Laing as the utterly talented leading tenor. Laing stunned the audience with his precise and crisp tap dancing and appropriate exaggerated movements. As the one-time star Dorothy Brock, Stephany Goulart portrayed Brock with sass and strong stage presence.

Technical aspects of the show ran exceptionally smooth. Lighting (Kelsey Powers and co.) and special effects (Hunter Rothstein and co.) were effective and captivating, making the production feel like a true Broadway show. Makeup showed off striking wigs, bright blush and gray hair commendably but lacked in age lines.

With a high level of difficulty show like "42nd Street", the students of Boca Raton Community High School performed with confidence, precision, and passion as they sang "Goodbye Baby!" when the curtains were closing on a true Broadway performance.

Marissa Krantz
Stoneman Douglas High School
Submitted for publication to

Take a spunky small-town girl, a few dancing dames, and a dash of romance and you get the enthralling production of Boca Raton Community High School's "42nd Street."

With book by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble and music by Harry Warren, the musical "42nd Street" first premiered on Broadway in 1980. The show was a major success, winning a Tony for best musical and becoming one of Broadway's longest running productions. Set in the 1930s, the story revolves around Julian Marsh, a disillusioned director trying to create a smash hit musical in the midst of the Great Depression. Along the way he meets Peggy Sawyer, a young bright-eyed chorus girl who helps him rediscover the beauty of Broadway.

Boca Raton Community High School's production of "42nd Street" was a joy to watch, filled with enthralling characters, fantastic dance numbers, and infectious enthusiasm.

Headlining the production were Brendan Feingold and Celina Demeo, who played Julian Marsh and Peggy Sawyer respectively. Feingold explored his character's dynamic personality while Demeo gave enchanting vocal performances and demonstrated a sweet naiveté. Yet it was their compelling chemistry together that truly made their characters shine. Kyle Laing portrayed Billy Lawlor, the leading man in Julian Marsh's production, with an energy that propelled the entire cast as well as his own performance. Laing flawlessly portrayed carefree Billy with his brilliant comedic timing, impeccable vocals, and strong onstage presence.

Supporting such very strong actors was a daunting task that the ensemble cast overcame effortlessly. One of the highlights was Anytime Annie who Alysia Muoio portrayed with moxie and sparkling enthusiasm. The Kids, the ensemble that made up the chorus members of Marsh's show, shined throughout the performance with impressive tap moves and strong vocal harmonies. Eliana Meyerowitz starred as the female writer of Marsh's show Maggie Jones and her wonderful comedic timing and use of one-liners led to many hysterical moments onstage. Although a minor role, Oscar, played by Alec Taylor, shined through Taylor's consistent focus and clever use of facial expressions.

The technical aspects of "42nd Street" were simplistic but effective. During the song "Shadow Waltz" the crew created beautiful special effects and giant shadows using only moving lights that crew onstage operated and a white scrim. The style of the 1930s was accurately portrayed through both costumes and makeup, with makeup design by Joane Compas and Casey Carotenuto. The stage crew kept the show running smoothly, with quick and efficient transitions.

Though there were a few sound issues and moments of low energy, but any minor problems were overshadowed by an overall outstanding performance. Everyone in the cast worked together to create a production that kept feet tapping ‘til the very last tune.