Theater fans 'crazy' about Agoura High's upcoming production
By Sophia Fischer sfischer@theacorn.com

CURTAIN UP- Agoura High School presents the Tony Award-winning musical "Crazy For You," directed by Mayme Paul-Thompson, at 7 p.m. April 30 and May 1 and 2, as well as 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sat., May 3. The comedy includes songs by George Gershwin including "I Got Rhythm," "Embraceable You," and "They Can't Take That Away From Me." Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children, and can be purchased at the door or by calling (818) 706-1771.

Students at Agoura High School have got rhythm, a necessity for the high energy musical comedy coming to the school's stage on Wed., April 30.

The theater and music departments are presenting the awardwinning Broadway show "Crazy for You," featuring such classic George and Ira Gershwin songs as "I Got Rhythm" and "Embraceable You."

A Broadway hit in the early 1990s, the musical follows the story of a wealthy young man whose dream is to dance. The Agoura production stars Colin Davis and Brad Leininger sharing the lead male role, and Samantha Hertz and Bailey Thompson sharing the female lead role.

The show features a 30member cast of students from Agoura High's drama, music and dance classes. The school orchestra and jazz band will perform the music.

"It's been a great collaboration, bringing kids together from different areas," said Mayme Thompson, the show's director and a former Broadway performer.

"Crazy for You" is a big change for the drama department after performing last year's thriller, "Sweeney Todd."

"The kids wanted to go in a completely different direction so they could study different musical styles," Thompson said. "This show is very funny, the polar opposite of "Sweeney Todd."

For sophomore Ali Laffer this year's show marks the 16yearold's first starring role at Agoura high. In "Sweeney Todd" Laffer was in the ensemble.

"Tess is kind of bossy and frazzled, Laffer said. "It's a lot of fun playing this role."

The five performances are at 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday.Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and children. Tickets may be reserved through the school office or by calling (818) 7061171. Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door just prior to showtime.