Peters Township students sing the classics in 'Anything Goes'

The world has gone mad today, but the cast and crew of this year’s Peters Township High School musical are hoping you’ll get a kick out of “Anything Goes.”

The production begins Thursday and runs through Sunday. It takes students back to the 1930s as they sing and dance through songs originally penned by Cole Porter. The play takes place on a cruise ship traveling from New York to London. This version of the musical is based off the 1987 Broadway adaptation.

“’Anything Goes’ is an old classic,” said director Ray Cygrymus. “We wanted to pick this musical because the past couple of years we’ve been doing more contemporary musicals ... we wanted to give the kids a chance to get an old-time musical under their belt.”

Cygrymus, who also teaches music in the district’s elementary schools, added that it was also a chance to showcase the talent of Peters Township dancers, as there are many numbers that feature tap dancing.

Last year, the students performed “Beauty and the Beast,” and Cygrymus said “Anything Goes” provides a sharp contrast in tone.

“’Beauty and the Beast’ is great, and it’s a big spectacle, but there are some melancholy, sad moments ... This is totally all just comedy and fun,” Cygrymus said.

Cygrymus went on to describe how a comedic show takes a different approach than a drama.

“We just had a character study going over comedic timing and just about the energy you have to bring forth to comedy. Comedy, in a lot of ways, is much more difficult than drama, for sure,” Cygrymus said.

Cygrymus also had high praise for the show’s leading performers. Peters senior Tess Phillips takes on the role of Reno Sweeney.

“Onstage, she’s just a bombastic, wonderful performer. Fabulous voice, fabulous danceability,” he said.

Chris Severns plays the character of Billy Crocker, who is in love with Hope Harcourt, portrayed by Ava Blasey. One of the more comedic roles in the show is Moonface Martin, who is portrayed by Connor McElhaney.

“That’s your stereotypical ‘funny gangster’ role. He’s just a hoot,” Cygrymus said.

The show will begin at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. There will be a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $10 for students and seniors.

“I think this is just a musical that is going to appeal to people of all ages. It really is timeless,” Cygrymus said. “It’s just a wonderful, old-style Broadway musical.”