The following article was submitted to the West Essex Tribune for publication by Livingston High School freshmen Rebekah Dorozhkin.
•••• Livingston High School’s spring 2025 production is “The Drowsy Chaperone,” an energy-packed show that brings audiences back to the golden age of musical theater. The show-within-a-show follows the main character, Man in Chair, who plays his favorite musical’s cast recording and it comes to life in his apartment. The story follows Janet, the leading lady, through a series of hilarious obstacles she encounters on her wedding day, from her producer trying to stop the wedding, to (Continued on Page A-6) (Continued from Page A-l ) gangsters posing as pastry chefs, all expressed through explosive musical numbers that captivate the audience for the whole runtime.
The Livingston High School Theater Arts Department is in final rehearsals for its production of “The Drowsy Chaperone” premiering tonight, March 13, in the Livingston High School auditorium. There will also be additional performances on March 14 and 15. Above, the cast rehearses before opening night. At right, Zoe Dee Lento and the cast of The Drowsy Chaperone rehearse on stage. Samantha Heskett Photos
‘Drowsy Chaperone’
Director Scott Patteson said that audiences should “Look forward to a lot of comedy and being introduced to a story that they are perhaps unfamiliar with. ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’ is truly a reminder of the power and joy of musical theater.”
Patteson expects audiences will enjoy the show.
“It won a Tony Award for Best Original Score, and it is a silly, short, and unique show that, while originally written for a bachelor party as a joke, has become an outstanding original musical,” he said.
Senior Michael Mintz, a student actor who played Prince Topher in LHS’ previous production of “Cinderella,” said audiences should, “Look forward to escaping the stresses of reality and being able to bask in the chaos and fun of the musical.”
“It was very exciting to see the technical elements with crew combine in with the performance,” said stage manager and LHS senior Ava Thomas.
“The Drowsy Chaperone” will be performed in the LHS auditorium on March 13, 14, and 15 at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 15, will also include a 2 p.m. matinee performance.
Tickets are available at lhstheater. com, and can also be purchased at the door.
