A cast of 33 local students, from ages 13 to 19, will travel back in time to the French Riviera in the 1920s for the latest San Benito Stage Company production, “The Boy Friend,” opening Friday at the Granada Theatre.
The story selected for the fall teen musical tells the case of mistaken identity. Paulie, the main character, is attending a finishing school for girls in France. And she has made up a boyfriend to compete with her boy-crazy friends.
Deanna Larsen, one of the co-producers of the show, said this is the first time the San Benito Stage Company has put on this show.
“This seemed to be a fun play that the whole cast is able to have a part in,” Larsen said. “It’s not just one main lead, but a good amount of equal stage time with all the singing and dancing. It gives kids an opportunity to grow and learn, get confidence on the stage.”
The show has a lot of dance numbers, including some set to period dances such as the Charleston.
“This cast has picked up things so quickly,” Larsen said. “I think it has a lot to do with the instruction and that the play takes place all in one day. It all happens in one day, even though there are three costume changes, three set changes.”
Going into the final week, Larsen said they were focused on fine tuning.
“The most fun part along with all the different dance numbers is at the end there is a ball,” Larsen said, of a scene close to the end of the play. “It is a costume ball and they will be wearing masks. Our costumer has handmade a lot of these masks. They are gorgeous.”
In addition to the director, choreographers, musical director and costumer, Larsen said parents and community members have been supportive with the play.
“We’ve had a lot of parent help,” Larsen said. “We couldn’t do it without parent help and help from the community. We’ve had some great sponsors come through and help us out.”
The Boyfriend
The San Benito Stage Company presents “The Boyfriend”
Oct. 19-20, 26-27 and Nov. 2-3 at 7 p.m., and Oct. 21 and 28, at 2 p.m.
Granada Theater, 336 Fifth St., in Hollister
Admission is $15 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, or $40 for a four-pack purchased in advance. Tickets are available at Postal Graphics, San Benito Bene and San Benito Stage Company.
Details: 636-0122.
