CROSS RIVER, N.Y. - As drama swirls all around us, March 19, 20 and 21 aim to provide a welcome respite. The John Jay Theater Workshop will present its spring play at the high school, and the subject matter is perfectly in line with that need.
“This opportunity was the best for everybody. We needed a space to laugh, to dance, to sing and do some disco,” said Jackie Massé, who is directing the theatrical version of Xanadu.
With music made famous by Olivia Newton-John and the Electric Light Orchestra (ELO) setting the tone, the production leans heavily into an upbeat vibe. “’80s music—it’s so groovy,” said assistant stage manager Anneliese Zaken.
Sami Sperling agrees. “I love rock ’n’ roll,” she said—and she will be belting out much of it.
As the female lead, Sperling carries a significant responsibility. “Xanadu is about a muse who wants to inspire mortals to create art,” she said of her character, Clio.
Clio sets her sights on Danny McGuire, hoping to reignite his passion. “He’s trying to open the Xanadu Roller Rink,” said RJ Ellrodt of his character.
Despite the obstacles along the way, the journey underscores the play’s central message, according to Ellrodt. “If you have an idea, don’t let anything stop you,” he said. “Go all the way.”
He also sees that same determination in his co-star. “I almost feel Olivia Newton-John in Sami and in the rest of the amazing cast,” Ellrodt added.
Not everyone is rooting for Clio, however. Her sisters, Melpomene and Calliope, grow jealous and place a curse on her, causing her to fall in love with a mortal—an offense that could lead Zeus to cast her into the netherworld. “I’m an evil, evil woman,” joked Kaitlyn Domoto.
Still, the tone of the show remains light. “It’s silly and vibrant,” said the four-year theater veteran. “That’s how we approach the evil persona.”
Lily Mostero, who plays Melpomene, agrees. “Kaitlyn and I have a lot of good chemistry, so we can really play off each other,” said the senior.
A seasoned performer since first grade, Mostero is no stranger to the stage, though opening night nerves still creep in. “When you get out there and the lights hit you, it just goes away,” said the aspiring screenwriter.
Danny Bardavid, meanwhile, plays a key role in the show’s hierarchy. “He’s Zeus’ right-hand man,” said the junior, whose character is tasked with making sure Clio does not fall in love with a human.
The experience has had a personal impact as well. “Before theater, I was so sheltered,” Bardavid said. “It helped me come out of my shell and find a community.”
Behind the scenes, Bohdan Adrianowycz serves as student technical director. “I’m making the vision of the set come to life,” he said. “If anything falls apart backstage or there’s a problem with any set pieces, it’s my responsibility to fix it.”
Zaken also plays a key role in keeping the production running smoothly. “Stage managing is a lot of getting the cast together and making sure they’re on time with their cues,” she said.
That applies to the crew as well, though Zaken emphasizes collaboration over authority. “The job is a lot of listening to the actors,” she said. “You can have fun, but you have to stay focused.”
Gracyn Holm-Jorgenson, who plays Sonny, also navigates the complications caused by the sisters’ scheme. “Melpomene and Calliope would then take over Clio’s role as the leader of the muses,” she explained.
While the plot may involve betrayal and curses, the cast promises an entertaining experience. “The show is such a fun time. It’s got a crazy plot. It’s kind of wild and very camp,” Holm-Jorgenson said, inviting audiences to come see for themselves.
Tickets can be purchased HERE.
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