If you like musicals, you are going to love “The Wedding Singer: A Musical Comedy,” scheduled for 8 performances starting Thursday, March 4 and running through Sunday, March 14.
Drama teacher Scott Burnett, who now has 54 productions under his belt at Anacortes High School, says of The Wedding Singer., “It’s wonderful to involve so many kids in a production. This is the biggest musical we’ve ever done, with more kids, more complex music and production demands that include a number of sets going on and coming off. We’ve got a very strong group, both students and adults … everyone shows up to rehearsals ready to work.”
The Wedding Singer is based on the 1998 film starring Adam Sandler.
“Our audience is going to see a real joyful send-off of life in the Eighties,” said Burnett. “The characters are well drawn, and the script deals in a comedic way with common human experiences including rejection. In addition to the music, Eighties references range from Imelda Marcos to the band Flock of Seagulls.”
In addition to Burnett, directors include Carole Leander, Glynna Geoff-Eloe, Ian Simensen, Warren Newton, Val Boyce and James Yandle. An all-student orchestra is for the most part self-directed, working under the leadership of students Sterling Laws and Anna Fakkema, with assistance from Leander and Ian Simensen.
“The level of professionalism from our student musicians is really exceptional,” said Burnett. “These students have a high level of expectations for themselves. It’s the best orchestra I’ve ever worked with.”
Playing the lead role of Robbie, a “one-hit” wedding singer who enjoys “some degree of renown locally,” is Anders Rodin. The role of Julia, Robbie’s romantic interest, is double cast, performed on alternate nights by Sarah Tisinger and Emily Leopold.
“Our cast call drew 10 percent of our student body. Paring the group down from 80 to 30 was very difficult ,” said Burnett. “Our chorus is immensely talented, and provides the real strength and flexibility for this show. Anders is great, and our females are so strong we were stymied by a decision on lead roles. Many of the chorus members could easily have stepped forward into lead roles. The double cast option gives more students a chance to perform.”
Also double cast is the role of Julia’s friend Hollie, played by Allie Hurtado and Julie Cox. Robbie’s first girlfriend, Linda, is played by Madison Campbell.
“The Wedding Singer,” with a PG-13 rating, will be the first major production to feature new lights and sound equipment made possible by generous community donations.
Performance dates are March 4-7 and 11-14, with a 7:30 p.m. start on all days except the two Sunday matinees, which start at 1:30 p.m. Tickets, available only at the door, are $12 for adults and $6 for students. For more information including cast list, email