Elmont Memorial High School stepped out in loud colors, blending youthful and mature styles while jumping back to the late 1950s for Michael Stewart’s “Bye Bye Birdie”.
The plot, inspired by Elvis Presley being drafted into the U.S. Army, features teen idol Conrad Birdie, portrayed by Elmont’s Kevin Flores. Flores brought the hilarious and admired character to life as the story centers on Birdie staging one final publicity stunt — inviting one lucky woman to give him a kiss goodbye before he is drafted into the army.
Elmont’s student performers graced the stage throughout the weekend of March 6, drawing families together for thunderous applause and laughter.
Director Benjamin Pesenti said the production aimed for simplicity in its staging to allow smoother transitions between scenes. For most of the show, the backdrop featured bold geometric patterns.
“We have taken a pretty simple approach of this show, to maximize the time that the audience is watching the students and not waiting for scenery,” said Pesenti. “So there is a lot of stuff that moves quickly and not overly complicated.”
Many of the scene changes incorporated movable wooden sets, including Kim MacAfee’s bedroom, which was used for multiple scenes.
Pesenti praised the stage crew’s efforts in preparing for opening night.
“They were hammering away at the stage for like four hours until everything was ready,” he said, referring to the days leading up to the first official performance.
Kim MacAfee — the character who wins the “prize” of Birdie’s farewell kiss before he leaves for the army — was portrayed by senior Yalisah Lozada.
Lozada has been active in the school’s theater program for several years. On playing MacAfee, Lozada said that she “really likes the story behind her character and how she is changing and adapting throughout the show,” she said in an interview with the Herald last January.
She added that MacAfee grows throughout the story as she learns to balance the excitement of adulthood while appreciating the present.
Eighth grader Selene Ferdinand portrayed Kim’s younger brother, Randolph MacAfee, an energetic character who is often overlooked amid the theatrics and drama surrounding his older sister.
Ferdinand described being part of the production as an “unforgettable experience.”
“From the very first rehearsal, it was clear that everyone involved was dedicated to making the show the best it could be.”
On playing Randolph MacAfee — and navigating the celebrity-obsessed world his sister brings to the family, along with his father’s attitude — Ferdinand said she was excited but a little nervous at first about bringing the character to life. As rehearsals progressed, she said she grew to understand Randolph’s personality and his role in the storyline.
Ferdinand also highlighted the strong atmosphere created by the cast and crew, as well as the support they received from their directors.
Together, the dedication of the cast, crew and directors helped bring the classic musical to life for the Elmont community. With energetic performances, quick scene transitions and a lively 1950s atmosphere, the production showcased the students’ talent and months of hard work.
