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!