Lake Park's production gives students chance to show musical talents

Love is in the air at Lake Park High School in Roselle.

The school's theater department will weave a tale of love lost and found in its upcoming production of Frank Loesser's musical, "Most Happy Fella."

The show, packed with music and dancing, will take viewers back to Napa Valley in the 1920s, where love prevails and anything is possible. But organizers say it's the music that will wow the crowd.

"It's 95 percent music," drama teacher Susan Rothchild said. "The kids are basically doing an opera but in English."

Showtimes are today through Sunday at Lake Park High School East Campus, 600 S. Medinah Road, Roselle.

The school generally produces two musicals a year to give its musically inclined students a chance to shine. Rothchild said she chose this particular musical because it's very challenging.

But the story line should prove entertaining, as well. Featuring a cast of more than 65 students, the show revolves around an aging vineyard owner and a young waitress who falls in love with him through his letters.

But being much older than her, Tony fears rejection and sends Rosabella a photo of his handsome younger brother, Joe. When they meet, that leads to confusion and a sense of betrayal. But love conquers all in the end.

"I'm so proud of our kids," Rothchild said. "This is challenging both musically and acting wise. I'm so proud of how they are bringing this play to life."

If you go

What: Lake Park High School presents "Most Happy Fella"

When: 7 p.m. today, 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday

Where: Dice Auditorium, Lake Park High School East Campus, 600 S. Medinah Road, Roselle

Cost: $7 for adults; $5 for non-Lake Park students; free to senior citizens and Lake Park students and staff

Details: (630) 295-5313

Main Cast

Tony: Senior Alex Furlan of Roselle

Rosabella: Senior Julia Israel of Roselle and senior Holly Redmon of Bloomingdale

Joe: Senior John Pierri of Bloomingdale.

Marie: Senior Ashley Thompson of Roselle and senior Amanda Hill of Roselle