Pekin High School - Pekinian Yearbook (Pekin, IL)

Page 18 text:

The Red Mill The Red Mill , Broadway famous musical extravaganza by Victor Herbert and Henry Blossom, was the annual operatic production given by the music department under the direction of Alex Zimmerman. The presentation of this work centered the attention of high school music teachers throughout this section of the state, and groups of people journeyed as much as a hundred and fifty miles to see a high school present this great professional show. In this brilliant performance of acting, singing and dancing, there were fourteen principals and choruses numbering almost one hundred people. The prima donna role was sung by Geraldine Sutter and the leading man part was taken by John Sanborn.

Page 17 text:

Thespians The P.C.H.S. troupe of National Thespians has proved itself an active organization. Ladies of the Jury was presented as the annual all-school play; the juniors offered Merely Mary Ann , and the seniors Mignonette” Besides these performances, the Thespians gave several matineess in the Little Theatre, entered one-act play contests, and provided programs for Civic clubs.

Page 19 text:

The Red Mill was originally written as a vehicle for one of America s greatest comedy teams, Montgomery and Stone. Patrons were surprised at the ability of two high school boys (Byron Johnson and Fritz Velde) to carry the heavy professional roles of Kid Conner and Con Kidder. Sam Smith played the burgomaster. Louis Skinner was the German Innkeeper. Mary Louise Williamson, Berneda Conn, Frederick Himmel, Mabel Strickfaden, Jim Seelye and Gordon Notszki carried important roles in a commendable style.