Cranberry students to perform ‘HONK! The Musical’

From staff reports

Rehearsals are in progress for the Cranberry Junior/Senior High School production of “HONK! The Musical.”

The show is described as a comedic and poignant retelling of the story of the ugly duckling.

The hero, Ugly, played by senior Madison Wagner, isn’t well received by the other residents of the farm duckyard. In a flurry of feathers and fancy French bread, Ugly is led away from the safety of his family into the clutches of the hungry Cat, played by McKenna Michael.

After a lucky escape, Ugly finds himself lost with Cat in hot pursuit. His mother, Ida, a duck, played by Madyson Wright, goes in search of her lost child.

The show follows Ugly and Ida on their journeys as they meet an array of memorable characters along their way back to each other.

“What excites me about this particular musical is that there are so many featured solos and every cast member has a chance to play multiple characters, so they all have a chance to shine,” said Janene Michael, who is directing the show. “There are literally no small parts,” she added.

The cast also includes Devin Dulaney, Emily Lautzenheiser, Hannah Smith, Chelsey Wright, Kai Pascorell, Aiden Ward, Ben Conkle, Abigail McCain, Sydney O’Neil, Kara Riley, Emily Wright, Kathleen Raecke, Mackenize Snyder, Drue Perry and Rebecca Lautzenheiser.

“I really like that this musical has a message of acceptance, tolerance and love while at the same time making you laugh and tap your toes,” Michael said. “It’s family oriented and so much fun.”

Performances are set for 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 3 and 4, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 5, at Cranberry High School.

Tickets will be on sale at the school office or at the door after Feb. 13.

For more information, call Michael at (814) 676-8504.