The Dialog
WILMINGTON – Billy Joel sang about it in “Miami 2017,” in the first line, in fact. “I’ve seen the lights go out on Broadway,” the Piano Man says, but of course, they went right on with the show.
The cast and crew of “Les Mis” at Salesianum School had the same attitude on March 2, opening night for the spring musical, when power was lost just before intermission. After a brief unscheduled period of darkness, the students saw the light, and the show continued.
“The student performers were consulted by Aaron Bogad, director of arts, and enthusiastically embraced the idea of performing via flashlights, cell phone lights and battery-operated candles,” said Kim Chiomento, Salesianum’s director of communications. “The audience was briefed and most supportive and appreciative of the decision to perform despite the challenging circumstances.”
Bogad called it “an incredible event” that will stand out among the many productions of which he has been a part.
“It’s been a long time since I have been this excited in a theater,” he said.
Chiomento said Salesian spirituality is “defined by optimism. We like to think this performance is an example of Salesian spirituality at its best.”
“Les Mis” continues at Salesianum this weekend. Other shows are still to come at schools in the diocese.
Les Miserables, Salesianum School (including some performers from Ursuline and Padua academies), March 9-10, 7:30 p.m., March 11, 2 p.m.
Working, Saint Mark’s High School, April 27-28, 7:30 p.m.; April 29, 2:15 p.m.
Godspell, St. Elizabeth Upper School, May 4-5, 7 p.m.; May 6, 2 p.m.
