Bishop Fenwick Students Tap into Broadway Magic and Dreams in "Crazy for You."

“I realize I’m an unknown, but I have potential.” - Bobby Child, Crazy for You.

The Bishop Fenwick High School drama club is bringing “Crazy for You,” a romantic comedy musical, to the stage this fall. Bobby Child, a young New York City banker, dreams of performing on Broadway one day. In his travels, Bobby falls in love with Polly Baker and attempts to stage a musical revue.

Kellie Tropeano, Chair of the Fine and Performing Arts Department, chose “Crazy for You” because she said it’s bold, energetic, and will challenge her students. She also wanted to create a production that highlights the excitement of 1930’s New York City Broadway musicals. 

“‘Crazy for You’ has everything I love about musical theater: gorgeous Gershwin music, incredible choreography, great comedy, and a wonderful story,” Tropeano said.

At auditions, Tropeano sought students who were willing to take risks, collaborate, and commit to helping tell the story. 

Sophomore Lilliana DiMercurio, from Gloucester, plays Patsy. She describes her character as a ditzy Marilyn Monroe/Betty Boop mix.

“I auditioned for her because she is the funny comedic relief,” DiMercurio said. “She helps me come out of my shell and helps show a side not everyone in class gets to see.”

Rehearsals have been dance-and-sing-central. It’s a very tap-heavy show, according to Tropeano, who said that every student tap dances in the production. 

“Not many cast members knew how to tap,” said Maddi O’Brien (Polly), a senior and Beverly resident. She said they have worked hard with choreographer Chloe Castellano since August. 

The cast has also worked hard on character development.

Kit Carpenter, a junior from Manchester, plays Mitzi, a Follies girl. Carpenter and the other Follies girl actresses have watched different videos of dances. She said they stay at the school practicing until 8:30 p.m., so they do the roles justice. 

“Sometimes the funniest mistakes will come up, and we’ll laugh about it. This is important because we need to have the chemistry,” said Carpenter. 

Along with what happens onstage, managing everything backstage is a very important job. “Crazy for You” incorporates many technical elements, which is more than any Bishop Fenwick production has ever seen.

“This show is BIG!” stated Tropeano. 

Senior Violet Elizabeth White, from Salem, is the stage manager for this production. She was the stage manager in Bishop Fenwick’s previous fall musical, “Joseph,” and said she enjoyed the experience. 

As a stage manager, White said it’s important to build relationships with the cast so they can learn together. 

“(The show) will have a big impact on the audiences,” said White.

The set, built by Mr. Charles Faulstich, is described as one of the largest sets with a second-floor level. Mr. Tom Cox, the Technical Director, is creating lighting designs that make audiences feel like they’re on 1930s Broadway in New York City. 

As for the costumes, Ms. Tricia Freitas has been working hard on 30s-style clothing, especially for the Follies girls. 

“Crazy for You” is a show about dreams and taking chances. Teddy Fleming (Bobby Child), a sophomore from Peabody, added it’s also about being open to change. 

“People are constantly changing, going to different places, and acting as different people,” Fleming said. “The show is about finding you, different environments, and people.”

As show week gets closer, Tropeano loves seeing her students take risks and accomplish new goals. 

“Not every student will pursue the arts professionally, but the skills and relationships they develop through theatre will stay with them for a lifetime,” Tropeano said.  

“Crazy for You” is described as a funny, entertaining, and joyful production. Show Dates are Thursday, Nov. 19 through Sunday, Nov. 22 at Bishop Fenwick High School, 99 Margin St., Peabody, MA. Tickets are available online.