Apollo-Ridge musical director Bethany Greenlee and orchestra director Andrew Jones have fond memories of performing “Hello, Dolly” together when they were in high school.

That’s one of the reasons Apollo-Ridge High School drama students have been gearing up to present the musical, set in New York City at the turn of the 20th century. The show runs from March 3-5.

“We both wanted something upbeat and funny that would leave audiences with a smile and a laugh,” Greenlee said. “We’ve always loved it.”

This is Greenlee’s 13th season as musical director.

“The program has grown so much over the years, and I’m really proud of it,” Greenlee said.

“Hello, Dolly” debuted on Broadway in 1964 and is a musical adaptation of Thornton Wilder’s hit play “The Matchmaker.”

A smash hit on Broadway, the show won 10 Tony awards.

The 1969 film adaptation of the musical won three Academy Awards.

Cast members said the musical is packed with energy, rousing dance numbers and comedy.

Senior Kate Myers plays Dolly, an independent and sassy matchmaker from New York City. Myers said her musical experience has been a high school highlight.

“I’m so grateful we get to have one this year,” Myers said. “Everyone has worked long and hard to make this show the best it can be, and we’re excited to share it with everyone.”

Apollo-Ridge’s musical season was on hiatus in 2021 with the pandemic. They performed their 2020 musical just two weeks before the covid-related shutdown.

Senior Greg Klingensmith said he first caught the acting bug during his freshman year.

He is cast as Horace, an unmarried and grumpy half-a-millionaire.

“People may not imagine me to be the type of guy to love the stage and musicals, but I am,” Klingensmith said. “This year will be my last musical, and it’s been one of the best times of my life. I love spending long evenings with friends and the great musical directors.”

Additional lead roles include Aaron Worst as Cornelius Hackl, Anna Sodowsky as Irene Molloy, and Madison Lydon as Minnie Fay.

The assistant director is Leanne Zelonka, and the costume director is Leigh Wenckowski. Jones serves as vocal director.

“I could not have done it without their support,” Greenlee said.

Greenlee expressed thanks to colleagues Nancy Sammons and Mary Ann Greenlee.

“Hello, Dolly” will be performed at 7 p.m. March 3-5 in the Apollo-Ridge High School Auditorium.

Tickets are $9 for adults and $5 for students and will be sold at the door.

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