Monacan High School - Legend Yearbook (Richmond, VA)

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“We love you, Conrad. Oh, yes we do!” What do the words, ‘‘teeny boppers,”’ “twisting,’’ and ‘‘talent’’ all have in com- mon? All relate to a musical presented by the Act | Company May 6-9 entitled ‘‘Bye, Bye, Birdie.”’ The show directed by Mrs. Robin Park- er, clearly depicted an era of America’s past known as ‘“‘The Fifties.’’ The setting of a small town, Sweet Apple, Ohio, proved to be the perfect place to learn about the feelings and concerns of Ameri- can teenagers as well as adults at this time. “Bye, Bye, Birdie’ revolved around a publicity manager, his secretary girl- friend, and the rock’n roll star they man- age. Albert, played by Paul Hundley, and Rosie, played by Lucinda Olofson. devel- op a scheme to promote Conrad Birdie, a star recently drafted, played by Troy Pe- ple. The large cast combined their acting, singing, and dancing talents fantastically. Many specialized talents were used throughout the musical such as a voice impression of Ed Sullivan, done by Frank Coleman, who played Mr. MacAfee; the comic ability of Regina Bohlman:in her runaway Wheelchair; and the directing abilities of Allen Cocke in helping Mrs. Parker to make the musical a wonderful success. The stage crew of the musical had their hands full with the many scene changes throughout the show. With the creative use of a slide show and of a roll away cube and platform stage, the show moved fluently from one scene to another. The show was graced with authentic costumes of the past. Many closets, stores, and basements must have been searched through to have had such an abundance of fifth-ish outfits. The one costume that stood out the most was Conrad Birdie’s gold rock’n roll jumpsuit, which was made by Eileen George. Also, a student orchestra directed by Mr. Dwight Graham accompanied the play, and they added to the feeling of being ata live broadway musical! A key to success? Well, not really. Although ‘‘Bye, Bye, Birdie’ was a great success, Troy Peple nods off while David Foreman presents the key of Sweet Apple to him. 30 Bye, Bye Birdie Hey, look me over. After a razzie dazzle dance number, Connie Smith, is given the once over by Paul Hundley while his mother, Jenny Jones gives an approving glance. Gushing Geyser. Upon opening a can of brew, Troy Peple thrills the audience with a cascading gush of beer while Jay Otero looks on.

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Getting to know you. Shortly after the French for- eign exchange students arrive at Monacan, their hosts inform them of their busy schedule. Funny in any language. Proving that humor is uni- versal, Nancy Moran shares a joke and a smile with one of Monacan’s exchange students. Wait your turn. With hunger pains becoming more intense, Curtis Gauntt piles his plate high with deli- cacies. St. Peters Square. Shortly after a Papal address, Janet Stotts, Ann Berkebile, Brad Pinover and Cindy Waymack leave with new insight into this historic State. Languages 29

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Sweet Apple Patriotism Troy Peple asks the teen- agers of Sweet Apple what they do for amusement in their town while Frank Coleman, portraying a monu- ment, hears all. Placed on a Pedestal With Characteristic Aloof- On the Spot. Surrounded by the cast, Paul Hundley ness — Conrad Birdie seems far away as his ador- realizes he is still on TV after Tim Sweeney punched ing fans recite the revered pledge. Troy Peple out of jealousy for Kim MacAfee. Bye, Bye Birdie 31