Saucon Valley's Fine Arts Department presented the musical comedy "Bye Bye Birdie" Feb. 27 to March 2. The book by Michael Steward was inspired by the rock-and-roll idol, Elvis Presley. The pseudo-Elvis of this production, Conrad Birdie, was played by junior Brenden Weaver. One of the dozens of teenage fans of Conrad, Rachel Altemose (11) as Kim MacAfee was chosen to give "one last kiss" to Conrad before he was called off to war. Let's not forget Davis Weaver (11) as Albert Peterson and Hannah Gaither (10) as Rose Alvarez, Conrad's record agents with their own enticing yet conflicting romance.

The lead roles of this show displayed not only exceptional acting ability by bringing their quirky characters to life, but talented vocals as well. With the help of the pit orchestra directed by Herb Payung, the ensemble exhibited their diligence in "A Healthy Normal American Boy." Individual lead solos showed remarkable aptitude as well, such as Gaither's "Spanish Rose" and Altemose's "How Lovely To Be A Woman." Teachers Mario Marcozzi, Chad Miller, and MBob Frey along with director Vince Rostkowski made an amusing appearance during Davis Weaver's "Baby, Talk To Me." Brenden Weaver also mastered Elvis's trademark mannerisms, brought to life during "One Last Kiss".

The typical teenage girls added a humorous touch to the production with their constant carol "We love you, Conrad!" The supporting lead roles enhanced the entertainment of this play with Rachel Panick (12) as Ursula Merkle, Maddison Rothacker (12) as Mae Peterson, and Ian Zuber (11) as Harry MacAfee. As young girls obsessed over the rock star and parents exhibited increasing irritation towards their kids, the audience found themselves roaring in laughter. This production exceeded in its ability to captivate the audience. During "Lot of Livin'" spectators could not help but bob their heads and chuckle as the ensemble filled the aisles with song and dance.

In addition to the deserving onstage performers, every member of the production crew warrants a round of applause as well. The producer, Sal Ritz, has been involved in Saucon's theater program for many years and put together another great show. Vince Rostkowski, who performed lead roles during his time at Saucon, directed "Bye Bye Birdie." The choreography of the play was put together by Joanellyn Schubert and Kim Tassinaro. The fabulous set of retro televisions was designed by Beth Jensen, and the quirky 50s costumes were done by Jennifer Altemose and Terri Nicholas. Finally, the stage crew and lighting worked impressively behind the scenes to enrich this production. The student stage managers that led the stage crew were Melissa Pupalitis (11), Jessica Bonham (11), and Sam Morykan (11).

"Honestly Sincere," this production was one of Saucon Valley's finest. Even with the poor weather conditions this winter, these talented students came through with a complete and hilarious execution of "Bye Bye Birdie."