Archbishop Ryan High School for Boys - Arrow Yearbook (Philadelphia, PA)

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LAB AIDES The I.ab Aides, a new club just formed this year, are responsible for testing, setting up and taking down all the experiments that are performed by the Physical Science and Freshmen Chemistry Students. Future scientists. Lending a helping hand. Mr. Victor Staniec. CHEMISTRY LAB AIDES Formula for learning. The Chemistry Lab Aides assist in preparing chemical solutions. Their other tasks include keeping the Chemistry Lab and Chemical Storeroom in order, taking periodic inventories of the chemicals, cleaning up all of the chemistry equipment and helping teachers set up the lab for various experiments. Mr. John Connelly. The lab assistants. 55

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BAND The Band is that group of virtuosos who are working to develop the musical appreciation of the school. Their constant work and dedication are evident in the high quality of their performances. It is not an accident that Ryan is reputed to have the finest band in the city. Many hours of practice have developed the musicianship that has earned this fine reputation. The Band exists for the purpose of entertaining students and bringing a good reputation to the school, as well as providing enjoyment for its members. Throughout this year, the Band played at numerous football games, concerts, in parades, school activities, and even at the Woodhaven Center for Retarded Children. Mr. Robert Purdy—Music and Band Director The Big Band sound comes to Ryan. Perfection on the field requires long hours of practice. Halftime entertainment. 54

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GUYS AND DOLLS Once again our Ryan thespians have swept their audiences off their feet. “Guys and Dolls” was truly a sensational hit. The planning for this exciting musical began way back in June of 1976, when Fr. Gabriel, the Director met with the other members of the production staff to discuss possible ideas for a production. As in previous years, a musical was chosen because of the overwhelming popularity of musicals in appealing to the audiences. In a musical like “Guys and Dolls,” which deals with gamblers during the 1920’s, the plot is mostly comical with a moral attached to it. October signaled the beginning of tryouts for the play. These included reading certain lines, singing and acting out various emotions in specific situations. From well over 350 candidates, a cast of 175 was chosen. Then in February, practices shifted from the classroom onto the stage itself. Finally at the end of March dress rehearsals were conducted. Fr. Gabriel really enjoyed working with his cast because they were very cooperative, dedicated and competent. As a result of such good rapport, he was able to work closely with them and this, in his opinion, spelled out success. Though it involved sacrifice, in the end it was worth it. The dancers taking a bow. The Girls’ Chorus. Fr. Gabriel instructing on the finer points of acting. A little recreation before practice. 56