Now appearing on the summer stage

(Page 4 of 5)
And for those who have a hankering for some Big Band sounds of the 1940s, try “The 1940’s Radio Hour,” presented by Port Washington Play Troupe this weekend. “Radio Hour” tells the story of the staff of a small seedy radio station, WOV, that has gathered in late 1942 to record a Christmas broadcast for the troops overseas. The show features many of the era’s most famous and beloved songs (from “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” to “Strike Up the Band” to “I’ll Never Smile Again,” among others) with a large ensemble cast of colorful characters.
“It’s an homage to some great 1940s tunes and the old way of doing entertainment,” says David Barnett, the music director for this production. “It includes some of the old swing tunes, which are wonderful, with a 14-piece swing band. Many arrangements are right out of the Big Band songbooks.”
Barnett, who grew up in Port Washington, but now lives in Woodmere, has had a varied musical career as a composer, musical director, arranger/orchestrator and instrumentalist. This is his second production with the Port Washington-based theater group. In addition to his music director duties, he also appears in the show as the bandleader. “It’s a charming little story, and great fun to be a part of this, and share this music with the audience,” Barnett says.
Ken Young, Molloy College’s director of public relations, also appears in the production, as Neal Tilden, a cab driver by day and singer, dancer, and choreographer at night, who is hoping for a ‘featured vocalist’ slot on the radio hour. “Neil is a wannabe Frank Sinatra type,” says Young, “not as great as he thinks he is.” Neil, as portrayed by Young, as has his big moment with a rendition of “Blue Moon.”
Also in the cast, is Chris Rogers, of West Hempstead, who portrays Biff Baker, young trumpet player who will be leaving after the concert is broadcast for Army duty.
“It is great fun,” says Young. “Incredible songs are backed up by a big band on stage. It’s really kind of cool. And to have this 1942 setting portrayed in this great old theater really adds to the show.”
Page 4 / 5