Erica Siaulnski, Staff Writer
The classic rock-and-roll musical turned movie starring Olivia Newton John and John Travolta, was shown as a musical for two nights, February 13th and 14th at SUNY Oneonta. The full cast of talented student actors and actresses put on an incredible, hilarious show.
The original movie, known as a fan favorite, released in 1978 and produced by Allan Carr and Robert Stingwood, glorifies and mocks the teenage culture of the 1950s, including heartbreak, homecoming dances and “greaser” culture. The original movie was beloved by fans everywhere especially for its impressive and extensive, as well as catchy soundtrack and its all-american approach and characters. The movie-musical was once one of the highest grossing movies of all time following its release. Over the years this beloved movie has become a cult classic and an all-American favorite.
The play was produced by Oneonta’s Apollo theater department and club, shown in the Goodrich theater. The producers included students Allison Benken and Grace Ring along with multiple other students.
The play starred students freshman Eli Stannford as Danny Zucco and freshman Schuyler Quartiers as Sandra “Sandy” Dumbrowski.
A Sophomore student, 19 year old Jennifer Turcious who played Rizzo, spoke on what it was like to work on this play, “It was a great experience, and both of the lead roles being freshman students really shows the incoming talent that this school is bringing in and getting to experience” she said, “working with fellow students and it was a good opportunity for students to channel their own creativity within a production. Although the budget wasn’t high we were able to make do with what we did have.” Other cast members felt the same way.
Another sophomore student, Emma Taylor, who played the radio voice also spoke on what it was like to work on this production. “This was my third Apollo production.” She added how much she enjoyed this club. “No matter what you get to be in the show. Even at the end the people backstage came out and got to dance. It was a very fun experience.” She talked about how involved all the cast members were as well. “We made all the sets ourselves with our budget. We made it work, and I think it turned out very nice.”
Although there were a few bumps in the road, such as during a dress rehearsal, lack of access to dressing rooms and multiple re-castings, the club was able to make it all work out.
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