Staples Players Tap Into “Thoroughly Modern Millie”

Last year, Staples Players wowed audiences with fantastic choreography in “A Chorus Line.” The year before, the Jets and Sharks danced their way through Players’ “West Side Story.”

This fall’s production of “Thoroughly Modern Millie” takes dance to a new level: tap.

The show is unique. Set in the Roaring Twenties, it’s based on a 1967 movie. Opening on Broadway in 2002, “Millie” won 6 Tonys — including Best Musical.

Amanda Horowitz as Millie Dillmount. (Photo/Kerry Long)

“It’s the best of both worlds,” says director David Roth. “It’s got crazy, madcap ’20s and ’60s sensibilities, but it’s a modern musical. It’s not dated at all. It’s very contemporary and accessible to modern audiences. And it’s a great show for families.”

It’s also very funny. And the huge amount of tap dancing is a first for former Players actor — now director — Roth.

He hired Abigail Root — a young dance teacher — to join regular choreographer Andrea Metchick.

“It’s been exciting to watch boys and girls learn tap,” Roth says. “That’s a very different style of dance. It’s like playing a percussion instrument — there are lots of different rhythms. But they love it.”

“Millie” also includes plenty of Charleston and flapper dances.

And it’s a huge costume show. Roth estimates at least 200 are displayed throughout the show.

Nick Ribolla as Jimmy Smith, surrounded by the ladies of the Hotel Priscilla. (Photo/Kerry Long)

Audiences will see several new faces in leading roles. Ryder Chasin, Nick Ribolla and Jack Baylis are among the first-time stars. The 2 Millies — Amanda Horowitz and Maddy Rozynek — are more familiar to Players fans.

“A Chorus Line” and “West Side Story” showcased Players’ dance talents to thousands of Westporters. “Thoroughly Modern Millie” will tap that choreographic mother lode once again.

Cara McNiff as Muzzy Van Hossmere. (Photo/Kerry Long)