The Wellesley High School Drama Department’s upcoming production of Anything Goes aims to bring the 1930s to life in a blend of classic charm and modern energy. Skylar Grossman, the new WHS drama director, says the show promises to deliver tons of laughs.
“I have a philosophy of alternating between contemporary and classics,” Grossman says. “I thought it would be really nice for the students here to have a diversified interest in stylings of musical theater.”
His vision with Anything Goes is to offer a musical that combines a dynamic romantic comedy with catchy tunes and moments.
Set against the backdrop of a glamorous ocean liner, Anything Goes captures the spirit of the 1930s supported by a live jazz swing band. Brandon Santini, the new WHS music director, explains, “The era’s music pervades the show with swing and big band styles, and even the song lyrics include references to the time period.” Even if someone doesn’t know the show’s historical setting, the distinct sounds of the era give away the vibe, making it a nostalgic trip back to a golden age of musical theater.
Despite its setting, Anything Goes resonates with modern people from all walks of life. Grossman states: “I think the story is laid out very true, you know, boy meets girl, boy falls in love with the time. You know, boy does everything he can to try to win a girl over who’s already been betrothed. Nobody dies.” While the story may be rooted in a specific time and place, its themes of love and perseverance remain timeless and relatable.
The students involved in Anything Goes have embraced the challenge of bringing this classic musical to life. From the cast members to the crew, their passion and dedication are evident in every rehearsal. Like any big production, Anything Goes has its share of challenges. Scheduling has been one of the toughest hurdles to overcome, especially with so many students juggling extracurriculars.
“It’s a bit like herding cats,” Santini said, laughing. “Everyone has their interests and extracurriculars, which always compete. But we work hard to schedule down to a T, so students know far in advance when they’re needed.”
Dhiren Sivapala, Thatcher Bonniwell, Anay Ayala
Despite the scheduling challenges, the students’ dedication makes it all come together. Santini says: “The most rewarding experience is walking into an environment where I’m brand new and seeing just how passionate and professional these high school students are. Every day working on this show has never felt like work—it’s been amazing because everyone is so attuned to what we need to do to make this show awesome.”
The goal of the show is simple: pure entertainment. “It’s not thinker theater—you don’t have to peel back all the layers and dwell on it,” Grossman says. “We just want people to sit in their seats and feel the energy that’s being felt on stage.”
In this production, WHS has chosen to blend elements from two different versions of Anything Goes: the 1987 and 2011 productions.
“The 2011 version has complicated, lengthy dance breaks and more modernized energy, but it’s still swing and big band,” Grossman says. “We’ve had to create a Frankenstein score, and that’s been a challenge, but it’s exciting.”
Seth Ford, Andy Topetzes, Thatcher Bonniwell
With all the hard work and creativity put into this show, audiences are in for a treat. Make sure to see the show at Wellesley High School either Thursday, Feb. 6 at 7pm, Friday, Feb. 7 at 7pm, or Saturday, Feb. 8 at 5pm. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
Written by Maya Hazarika, Wellesley High Class of 2028
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