MONROE, CT — “You’re Only Young Once”, a play written by Glenn Hughes, follows the adventures of Lincoln High School student, Gabby Gallagher, who spreads lies and creates mischief, setting off a comedic series of events on the day of the homecoming football game and Victory Ball during the 1940s.
Masuk drama students will perform their own rendition of the play at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 14, and Saturday, Nov. 16, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the high school, 1014 Monroe Turnpike.
“The story follows Gabby Gallagher and the mischief, romance and laughter that ensues,” said Michael Katz, director of the Masuk production. “It’s about friendship and romance. It’s the stereotypical high school drama.”
“It’s a mini-farce,” said Muriel Bailey, a senior playing the role of school secretary Ms. Chandler. “People are going in and out of doors. Their miscommunications spout out of this, with schemes here and there … all because of Gabby Gallagher.”
Masuk’s production also stars sophomore, Daniel Fontana, in the lead role as Gallagher; junior Ethan Fonck as the principal, Mr. Birch; and junior Brady Ebner as the assistant principal, Mr. Petit.
“I think he’s mischievous and devious, but he’s also pretty funny,” Fontana said of his character.
Of Ms. Chandler, Bailey said, “I consider her to be the bridge between the students and the teachers, and when she witnesses most of the lies and schemes Gallagher does, she’s dumbfounded at how he does all this and gets away with it. She loves all the kids, even Gabby when he makes her go crazy.”
“The principal is constantly overwhelmed,” Fonck said of his character. “He has a soft spot though, but it’s hard to reach on days when there’s a constant flow in the office with so many things going on.”
Ebner’s character, Mr. Petit, stands by Mr. Birch’s side amid the chaos.
“He’s put together and assertive, but kind of shy and afraid around the principal,” Ebner said. “He’s a goody two-shoes. He shares everything with Mr. Birch.”
“Mr. Birch is always trying to push stuff out of him to get the details,” Fonck said.
“He’s intimidated, but he also wants to impress him and get in good standing with him,” Ebner said of the dynamic between Petit and his boss.
Tickets to “You’re Only Young Once” cost $20 per person with a discount price of $15 for senior citizens and students. To order tickets online, click here.
The show is produced by Sharon Bartek, Julia Kinahan is the stage manager and the set was built by Doug Katz, who is Michael Katz’s father.
Michael Katz said the lineup is comprised of 20 cast members and 50 crew members with 25 from the student body.
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