A few weeks ago, Westporters expected a bleak, COVID-induced, entertainment-free summer.
It’s been anything but.
The Remarkable Theater’s drive-in movies are a spectacular success. The Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce’s Supper & Soul series sell out.
Last night, a pair of energetic, talented recent Staples High School graduates produced their own special show.
The “Westport is Back! Drive-in Musical Cabaret” drew a capacity (and properly masked, socially distanced) crowd to the Imperial Avenue parking lot.
A social bubble enjoys the show.
It was a team effort. Sam Laskin and Sammy Guthartz — plus fellow Staples Player alum, stage manager Karalyn Hood — got plenty of help from Remarkable Theater gurus Doug Tirola and Marina Derman.
Recent graduate Sammy Guthartz and Max Herman ’19 harmonize.
The filled house — er, parking lot — enjoyed an evening of entertainment. Thirteen performers who were at Staples in 2020 joined forces with 6 graduates from recent years.
Rising sophomore Madelyn Spera,
Their repertoire was wide-ranging. Their talent and enthusiasm was sky-high.
Rising junior Evelyn Stevens, with Staples Players musical director Don Rickenback.
And a portion of the proceeds went to 4-CT, to aid state residents impacted by COVID-19.
AJ Konstanty (playing keyboard) dedicated the song “Brother” to his brother Colin (left, watching with his mother, right, and frined Paul Hwang).
It was a great chance for Staples performers — who missed the spring play and concerts — to be back on stage. And to share it with some powerhouse alumni.
Jack Baylis, Staples High School ’15. (All photos/Andy Laskin)
It was a great night for Westport, too.
COVID be damned. The show must go on!
A fun evening in support of two great volunteer efforts!
The masks, few as they are, are not for the most part, properly worn! Are you kidding yourselves??These precious kids are not socially distancing and you are promoting danger, Shame on you.