'Bye Bye Birdie' at Milford High School Nov. 16-17

The Huron Valley Milford High School Theater Company will be presenting its rendition of the classic “Bye Bye Birdie” on Nov. 16 and 17 at 7 p.m.

This year’s instructors include Milford Vocal Music Director Maryann Lambrecht; accompanist Megan Granroth; director Megan Weeks; choreographer Suzanne Jonna of Suzanne’s Main Street Dance; and technical directors of sound and lighting, Tom and Mary Ann O’Brien.

The musical takes place in the 1950s in Sweet Apple, Ohio. Rock ‘n’ roll star Conrad Birdie — inspired by Elvis Presley — arrives in town for a farewell performance before his induction into the U.S. Army, and promises to bestow “one last kiss” to a lucky teenage girl live on “The Ed Sullivan Show.”

“It’s a tongue-and-cheek type of play and plays off some stereotypes of the time period like screaming girls,” Weeks said. “It’s a well-known classic and we’re hoping to pull a large audience.”

Shaun Richardson, who plays Birdie, is up for the challenge of the lead role.

“This is only my second musical, but I love it,” he said. “It’s been fun researching Elvis. He’s a tough act to follow, but I’m having fun trying.”

Likewise, Meghan Griesbeck, who plays Doris Macafee, has enjoyed the experience.

“It has taught me so much more than performing,” she said. “‘Bye Bye Birdie’ has been a challenge for me. Doris is much older than me and it’s been interesting trying to find her character. She’s quirky but maternal, and it’s a fun mix to portray.”

The following is the musical’s cast:

• Rosie Alvarez, played by Kaitlyn Weickel;

• Albert Peterson, played by Stephen Drake;

• Conrad Birdie, played by Shaun Richardson;

• Kim Macafee, played by Nancy Boyd;

• Harry Macafee, played by Nate King;

• Doris Macafee, played by Meghan Griesbeck;

• Randolph Macafee, played by Alexis Zeabari;

• Mae Peterson, played by Emma Spadoni;

• Ursula Merkle, played by Rachel Carreri;

• Hugo Peabody, played by James Richardson;

• Margie, played by Hailey Grigereit;

• Alice, played by Alecia Morris;

• Deborah Sue, played by Kryzia Garza;

• Gloria, played by Amelia Redding;

• Mrs. Merkle, played by Zoe Neamos;

• Mrs. Johnson, played by Willow Collins;

• Mayor’s wife, played by Lane Flowers;

• Sad girl, played by Linnea Kynast;

• Harvey Johnson, played by Connor Keliikuli;

• Mayor/male quartet, played by Zach Dahlmann;

• Maude/Male quartet, played by Jon May;

• Helen, played by Nic Montgomery;

• Nancy, played by Linnea Kynast;

• Penelope Ann: Sarah Reed;

• Suzie (1-4), played by Katelyn Perrett, Tiffany Boyer, Hannah Hosking, and Megan Waxman;

• Reporter 1, played by Katie Thompson; and

• Reporter 2, played by Catherine Pietsch.

Another 15 students will assist with lighting, costuming, makeup, and painting. It’s taken over 90 people to ensure the fall production’s success.

The musical is full of old-fashioned fun for the entire family, and features classic songs such as “A Lot of Livin’ to Do,” “Put on a Happy Face,” and “The Telephone Hour.”

Tickets can be purchased online at mhsperformingarts.com at $10 per adult, or $8 for students, children or senior citizens 62-years-old or older. There is a $1 processing fee.

Tickets at the door are $1 more — $12 per adult, and $10 for students, children or senior citizens 62-years-old or older.