STB presents "An Evening of Rodgers and Hammerstein"

It was truly a “Grand Night for Singing” at St. Bernard’s Central Catholic High School last Saturday Night. High School Students presented “An Evening of Rodgers and Hammerstein.” The drama students’ facial expressions and short bits of dialogue reflected what you would see in a musical yet there were no sets, costumes or blocking in this production of songs in concert. The focus was totally on the performers.

According to director, Miss Jodi Lynne, this is a challenging NYC concept that is not done very often in theaters, let alone at the high school level. Miss Lynne is a Broadway musical actress who has traveled the world performing in more than 40 plays and musicals. With an extensive background in film, television and modeling, she has also appeared on the Hanover Theater stage as a performer and musical director. St. Bernard’s High School Principal, Mr. Robert Blanchard, was pleased to have someone with Miss Lynne’s experience directing the students. With a dual BA in voice and music education from the Boston University School of Fine Arts and more than 20 years of teaching experience in piano, voice and drama Miss Lynne ensures students have a foundation in music theory and performance technique.
The backdrop for the evening was created by the Art Department at the school under the leadership of Mrs. Maryann Raymond. Mrs. Raymond contributed her own artistic talents as she worked alongside her students creating the six panels representing seven Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals. Song selections were from Carousel, Cinderella, The King and I, Oklahoma, The Sound of Music, State Fair and South Pacific.

The results of the collaboration of fine and performing arts last Saturday night will be long remembered by the student performers and all fortunate enough to be in the audience.