Well, you heard it here first (maybe): our acting stidkid once again has a speaking/singing part in the school production. He will play Nicely-Nicely Johnson in Guys and Dolls, Jr.
Research tells us that the original actor of the role was Stubby Kaye, who played Nicely first in 1950 on Broadway, and again in the movie with Frank Sinatra and Marlon Brando. For an audition piece, the kid chose Nicely’s final song, “Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat” — and wowed those who were watching (I was, unfortunately, not there). Yes, we have watched the movie several times!
The other productions stidkid#2 has been in have been Iago, the annoying parrot in Aladdin, Jr. (in 2006), and Fat Sam in last year’s highly acclaimed (by parents and grandparents anyway) Bugsy Malone, Jr.
This time, he will not only have speaking lines, but several songs and a solo! More work, but hopefully also more fun. There will be three performances. Tom will help backstage, I will be one of his groupies and attend all performances. Taking part in things like this — or the student orchestra, or the school Knowledge Bowl or Debate team… all part of learning to extend yourself, to perform under pressure, to give pleasure to others who get to watch/listen/participate. This is a great learning experience, and a way to stretch his wings.
Yes, I am very proud of him, and excited that his preparation for this production has paid off in getting a good part again.