Step back in time in Seaford

The 1920s are coming to Seaford High School this weekend, as the curtain opens on the Drama Club’s production of “Thoroughly Modern Millie.”

Cast members have been rehearsing since November for the musical, which is expected to be a crowd pleaser. “We thought it was time for a big-band musical and something challenging for the kids,” said co-Director and choreographer Samantha Gates. “It’s a really big show, so there’s a lot of elements.”

Set in 1922, Millie Dillmount leaves Kansas for New York City determined for success. She meets the carefree Jimmy Smith who has never settled down, but eventually falls in love with Millie.

“He’s never felt love before, so it’s definitely a new feeling for him,” said Kenny Haskell, a sophomore, who plays Jimmy Smith. Haskell said that he has a fun and adventurous character to portray.

Junior Elise Weber stars as Millie. This is her fourth production at Seaford High School and her biggest role to date. She has also been in “13 the Musical,” “Guys and Dolls” and “Into the Woods.”

Weber said she can relate to her character, as moving to New York City is a dream of hers as well. Her favorite moments in the show are the opening number, and the finale, but she won’t play spoiler. “I don’t want to give away the end of the show,” she said. “That’s kind of a plot twist.”

“Thoroughly Modern Millie,” with music by Jeanine Tesori and lyrics by Dick Scanlan, was based on the 1967 film of the same name. It first appeared on stage in San Diego in 2000, and had a two-year run on Broadway from 2002 to 2004 winning six Tony Awards.

Kerry Prep, a theater professor at Adelphi University and LIU Post, is co-director. He said the play was a great choice for the Seaford High School stage. “It’s fun,” he said. “It has great music. It has great dancing. It’s kind of like a throwback to the old musicals — fun characters, corny jokes.”

Prep, the play’s musical director, said the show features extensive tap dancing by his cast, and they are excelling in rehearsals even though many have never had a lesson.

“What we focus on is fun,” he said. “It’s more about the socializing aspect. This is what you remember at your high school reunion 10 years from now.”