Reprising ‘A Chorus Line’

In the 18 years that Walter Lastowski has been a part of the music department in the Hewlett-Woodmere School District, he has never repeated a production, until now.

From Nov. 20-23, Hewlett High School students will be performing “A Chorus Line,” which was originally presented in 2000, along with the original cast.

“After we cast the show, I started to get the idea of inviting the original 2000 cast back to somehow be apart of the show,” Lastowski said. “It was the 2000 cast that really launched the musical into the 21st century. Even though the musicals before were great, the show, ‘A Chorus Line,’ was the first modern endeavor for the department, opening the door to many new, and in some cases, envelope pushing scenarios.”

Ali Kresch, a 2003 graduate of Hewlett High School, was hired to do choreography for this year’s production and also starred as Val in the 2000 production. “So much has changed since I did the show years ago — they all check their cell phones during breaks — but the script is the same, the demands of the show are the same and that’s one of the comforts of theater,” she said. “Generations of theater lovers will be coming together and will remind the community that music programs are a legacy — even for those who didn’t pursue theater, the musical foundations laid in our high school years will stay with us forever.”

Senior Leor Ginzburg was cast as Paul and said he felt increased pressure, along with excitement when he found out the original cast would be performing alongside him and his fellow cast members. “The fact that in 2000 these people were in exactly the same dance shoes we are in today is inspiring,” he said. “I hope that this year’s cast does the alumni cast proud.”

Kat Gueli, who will be playing Judy, said she’s looking forward to the audience’s reaction to the musical. “Each character shares a personal story and while some are humorous, others experience an awakening of emotions,” Gueli said. “I’m truly amazed at how much we have grown together as a cast. Everyone is tremendously supportive of each other and we have truly become a family.”

Alissa Giannotti was cast as Cassie for this year’s performance. “I’m excited and a little nervous as well,” said the Hewlett High senior. “I have seen a video of the 2000 performance and I know that I have big shoes to fill. I know the whole cast is looking forward to meeting the alumni.”

Though Danna Kivell was nervous when she was invited to return to play Cassie, the role she played 13 years ago, she was excited to hear of the revival. “Each time I’ve come back to see a musical at Hewlett High School, the casts are more and more talented and versatile,” she said. “I hope that these young stars enjoy every minute of performing in this musical and working with such a talented and collaborative production team; I know I did!”

Performances will be held Nov. 20 at 4:30 p.m., Nov. 22 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 23 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the high school, 60 Everit Ave. in Hewlett. To purchase tickets, call (516) 792-4808.