After an initial delay of four weeks, the Abraham Lincoln Performing Arts Department presented a fantastic production of the musical Bye Bye Birdie, on March 10 and 11. There was a huge turnout, enough to fill almost all of the seats in the three auditorium sections, and the audience really enjoyed a lively, energetic performance.

From the moment he stepped on stage, there was no doubt that Conrad Birdie (Will Diehl) rocked! That voice, those hips, that swagger! Bodies were fainting all over the Courthouse steps!

The Macafee family was terrific. Kim (Michelle Tse) was sweet as the teenage daughter. Mrs. Macafee (Alix Cuadra) had her hands full trying to keep her family in check. Mr. Macafee (Yev Belilovskiy) was perpetually exasperated and comical. Little brother, Randolph (Christopher Trigueriro), from St. Gabriel, charmed everyone and brought down the house with his performance.

Albert Peterson (William Morthole) was wildly funny, as he clowned, sang, leaped, danced, and tried desperately to break the news to his mother that he loved Rosie. Rosie (Yoyo Chan) was fed up with Albert’s procrastination and with his insulting, interfering mama. Abraham Lincoln teacher, Shannon Manini, was wickedly funny as Albert’s meddling, manipulative mama. Manini used to be a lounge singer, and she is a very talented actress. She usually helps our with the drama and show choir departments.

The costumes and hairstyles were right out of the 50’s, and reflected the times with poodle skirts, ponytails, and lots of hair cream. The stage sets were minimal; the main focus was on the dancing and singing. The collaboration between the music and drama departments was fantastic. The live music kept the audience clapping and cheering with numbers like “Honestly Sincere,” and “Lot of Livin’ to Do.”

The best part of the show was when Rosie sang her Spanish Rose song. At first it seemed as if she was just going to stay onstage and sing. But then the spotlight came on, and she stepped down into the audience. They loved her as she flirted, and whisked her scarf around them.

This successful production, under the direction of the incomparable Ms. Elaine Walenta, was the result of dedication, hard work, and long hours. Kevin King, Co-Stage Manager, stated that students worked every night for about 6 hours after school, until 10pm.