March 2004
MGP's 'Music Man' celebrates 45 years of tradition
Courtesy of THE PRESS By Lori E. Switaj

Noting that this was the 45th season of Avon Lake's longest running production, the Mighty Goliath Productions theatre company wanted to do something big. And big it is. Meredith Willson's "The Music Man," opening March 26 in the Performing Arts Center at Avon Lake High School, will feature over 130 performers on stage.

"We wanted a big, big show," publicity chair and former director Sheila Hartsel said. "'Music Man' encompasses so many people." Pulling double-duty, Hartsel will play the role of Mrs. Paroo. MGP is a musical theatre company that contributes funds toward the performing arts programs of the Avon Lake City Schools. To date, they have donated over $100,000 in proceeds. The show was selected last spring, immediately following the production of the 2003 show, ''A Grand Night for Singing.''

MGP has become one of the area's most enduring traditions. More than 2,000 volunteers have assisted over the years. Although an Avon Lake mainstay, the show features actors and musicians from all over the Northeast Ohio area including Avon, Westlake, Lakewood, Medina, from all over, Lorain and North Ridgeville. The show calls for a barbershop quartet, and stepping up to the plate are professional singers Rhythm-n-Rhyme Barbershop Quartet. In addition to real-life barber Ron Granneman of North Ridgeville, are members Dr. Jim Kasten, Bill Fernkown and Al Downey. Vocal director Ernie Hisey was instrumental in securing the quartet, who are donating their time. His wife, Bernadette Hisey, is the show's director. Hartsel noted dedicated volunteer Randi Schmarch will be playing piano for the production. "She is at every practice and she's really terrific," Hartsel said. "She's done a lot of offsite programs-her fingers must be worn to the bone."

Kathy Snezak, "an original Avon Lake girl" is producing the show. Snezak, along with Hartsel co-produced last year's show, but is taking on solo responsibility this year. Christoper Barbaro is the show's orchestra leader Conductor and PRESS court reporter Doug Warnke is the technical director. Sandi Gerha is responsible for ticket sales and Joann Sarvas is handling costumes. When not on stage, the show's actors disperse to a variety of fields. "There are doctors, students, professionals...quite a mix," Hartsel said. "There are also about 30 children, some as young as preschool. There are also a lot of families involved." "It's become a great traditions for many people," Hartsel said. "Ken and Jeanne Sisson (ALHS Class of 1942) have never missed a production." The plot revolves around "Professor" Harold Hill (played by Mike Nickley, of Medina,) a con-man who in order to sell band instruments convinces the citizens of River City, Iowa that he can teach their children to play in a marching band. Hill doesn't count on falling in love with the town librarian, Marian Paroo (played by Kitty O'Shea, of Lakewood,)and instead of skipping town before the instruments arrive, he is convinced to stay.