Wilson’s ‘The Music Man’ marches into GPAC March 31-April 2

By Mark Schulman
Assistant Editor

The most ambitious undertaking produced by the UNCP Music and Theatre Department will be at GPAC March 31- April 1 at 8 p.m. “The Music Man” consists of 35 cast members involving UNCP student actors in collaboration with professional actors from the Cape Fear Regional Theatre and children of the faculty and staff.

Travis Stockley and Holden Hansen co-direct the musical that was written by Meredeth Wilson in the 1950’s. Stockley and Hansen held auditions in January and have been rehearsing for eight weeks.

“This is by far the most talented cast I have ever put together at UNCP,” Hansen said. “The growth and quality of the students contributes to that talent.”

The show is set in the early 1900’s shortly after the invention of the automobile. The plot revolves around traveling salesman Harold Hill, played by Ken Griggs, who drifts from town to town conning the local citizens into buying his products.

Harold arrives at River City, Iowa, promising that he could teach the town’s children to play in a marching band once their parents purchase his instruments. Before Harold can disappear and honor his commitment to the town, he falls in love with the town librarian Marian Paroo, performed by Cassandra Vallery. The two central characters are from The Cape Fear Regional Theatre.

“Working with UNCP on “The Music Man” is a great experience,” Vallery said. “There are a lot of talented, energetic and enthusiastic students here.”

UNCP Musical and Theatre major Ellie Robbins’ character is Mrs. Squires. Robbins enjoys working with the skilled actors from The Cape Fear Regional Theatre.

“I’m really excited about the lead roles played by Ken [Griggs] and Cassandra [Vallery],” Robbins said. “They came completely prepared. It’s great to see professionals at work.”

“The Music Man” is an enlightening story featuring wonderful music, a talented cast, massive set changes and over 70 different costumes.

Tickets are free for UNCP students and faculty, $5 for the public and $3 for non-UNCP students.