Chartiers Valley High School comes alive with ‘Young Frankenstein’
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At Chartiers Valley High School, spring musical director Kim Giffin chooses the actors and actresses first, then the production.
“I see what kids I have, and then I pick the show,” Giffin says. “I like to do the auditions first and then fit them into the roles for the musical.”
This year’s choice? “Young Frankenstein.” Shows are at 7:30 March 4-7 at the high school. Tickets are $10.
According to Music Theatre International the Mel Brooks creation of “Young Frankenstein” tells the story of the grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein who inherits his family’s estate and brings to life a creature rival to his grandfather. The monster escapes and you will have to see the show to find out what happens next.
Giffin chose it because it’s a show they haven’t done before and it’s much different than the past three they’ve performed — “Sister Act,” “Legally Blonde” and “Sweeney Todd.”
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Giffin, a theater and dance teacher at the high school, who will be directing her 12th spring musical, says she tries to offer a variety of shows so that the students can experience different productions throughout their four years of high school.
“I like ‘Frankenstein’ because it’s not a musical you see all the time,” she says.
The dancing part includes a tap number which has been a huge undertaking for the cast to learn, she said. The last time the lead of the show that plays Frankenstein’s grandson – Sam Kagle, a senior, tap danced was for another performance five years ago. Kagle won best supporting actor for his role as Eddie Souther in “Sister Act” last year at the Gene Kelly Awards.
“The tap dancing is fun,” said Kagle, whose younger brother Owen is also in the show as the monster that’s created. “ Theater is amazing, and I enjoy embracing the character I am portraying. Being on stage is a chance to express myself.”
Hannah Roadway, a senior, plays the role of housekeeper Frau Blucher. “It is unlike any other show we have done,” she says ‘This group is so cohesive. You can just feel it.”