By Paula Peterson

  • Emory Mulligan, 17, in his role as Dr. Frederick Frankenstein
    Emory Mulligan, 17, in his role as Dr. Frederick Frankenstein
  • Igor will be played by Jack Suglian, 18
    Igor will be played by Jack Suglian, 18
  • Junior Angelica Rodriguez leads the play's dancers during rehearsal
    Junior Angelica Rodriguez leads the play’s dancers during rehearsal
  • Marcia Sarosik instructs the dance troupe
    Marcia Sarosik instructs the dance troupe
  • Dance rehearsals
    Dance rehearsals
  • He's Alive!
    He’s Alive!
  • The orchestra
    The orchestra
  • The French Horn
    The French Horn
  • Senior Kora Link prepares for rehearsals
    Senior Kora Link prepares for rehearsals
  • Chorus members Aurora Gooch (in back), Drue Chapman (center) and Gabriella Tencher
    Chorus members Aurora Gooch (in back), Drue Chapman (center) and Gabriella Tencher
  • The set, constructed by Drake Niven
    The set, constructed by Drake Niven

Lots of fun and great laughs are promised during the South Tahoe High performance of Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein, The Musical, which will hit the stage of the school’s new theater over the next two weekends.

Based on the 1974 movie, Mel Brooks added music and dance numbers to bring the play to a whole new level. “The kids have been working hard with long hours, and they’re enjoying it,” according to Liz “Niv” Niven, the school’s theater director since 1997.

When asked why this play was chosen for the school’s annual musical, Niven said that wanted something that would really spark the interest of the students. She is apparently right since over 200 students auditioned for the cast of 55 (which includes actors, dancers, singers and stage crew.)

There are 11 students and 4 professional musicians in the show’s orchestra. “Music adds so much to the show,” says Niven.

Senior Emory Mulligan, a veteran of 5 previous school plays, plays Dr. Frederick Frankenstein. “I’ve never been the lead,” according to Mulligan. “It’s terrifying, but fun.”

Jack Suglian, also a senior, is performing in his 7th play at South Tahoe High. He is enjoying playing Igor. “He’s like a lost puppy,” says Suglian. “He’s a lot of fun to play.”

Showtimes are Friday and Saturday, January 16, 17, 24 and 25 at 7 pm and Sunday January 19 and 26 at 2 pm. Tickets are available at the school box office for $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for students. The Performing Arts Booster Association is having their 3rd Annual Gala Dinner. Tickets are $30.

Challenge: Listen for the horse’s neighs whenever Frau Blucher is announced. Do you know why?

The next theater production will be “Idiot’s Delight” which will go into production almost immediately after the end of Young Frankenstein.