By Rachel Kalina
Harrington's 10 years of directing Baldwin school plays, such as "Seussical," "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown," "Annie" and, most famously, "Ragtime," have earned him a special place in the hearts of his students, their parents and the community.
Under Harrington's guidance two years ago, Baldwin was chosen by Music Theater International to be the first high school in the country to perform "Ragtime." Parents and students at the board meeting pointed out that Baldwin has been widely praised for its musicals with Harrington at the helm.
"I think we would be devastated if Mr. Harrington was not to return," said Baldwin High School Drama Club Vice President Matthew Soberman. Sporting a red "Seussical" T-shirt, with his fellow thespians wearing black "Ragtime" shirts, Soberman pointed out that Baldwin only deserved to perform "Ragtime" because of Harrington. "We don't want the curtain going down on this era," he added.
Harrington has not given a reason - at least not publicly - for his decision not to reapply.
James M. Soberman, Matthew's father, said at the meeting that he had a recent conversation with Harrington, who said that he is not unhappy directing in Baldwin schools. Soberman said that Harrington is over-burdened and was not happy with the productions of "Seussical" or "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown," because he felt they could have been more polished if he had had more time to devote to them.
Soberman said that Harrington is getting district support, but he has too much to do as Baldwin Middle School's English department chairman now that the sixth grade has come under his tutelage. "And the weight of the requirements on the job in terms of educating the children takes a lot more time," said Soberman. "He can't do the plays under the existing conditions."
Harrington said he could not comment on his intention not to continue at this time.
Soberman made a point of telling the 11 students who remained when the meeting ended at midnight that Harrington "truly loves you guys and he's hurting." He then told the board that it had about two weeks to try and change Harrington's mind, as the school year is quickly ending and he normally holds auditions before the summer.
Although residents are usually given time to speak at the end of the meeting, the board recognized that many students in attendance had exams the next day, and allowed some to make their comments early.
Board President James Scannell said the board couldn't respond to some comments because certain aspects of people's employment cannot be addressed in public. He did assure the speakers, however, that the board was listening to them. "[We are] committed to seeing there will be a continuation of plays because we recognize it is an integral part of what makes Baldwin great," Scannell said.
In response to the concerns of students and parents, Scannell said that Harrington's talent was recognized, and that while no one has applied to the directing job as of now, "We are committed to having the best person do this job." He said the board would look outside the district if need be, and advertise in The New York Times and other arts publications.
Still, parents and students insisted they didn't want just anyone for the part - they wanted Harrington. "We don't just want another musical," said one student. "We want another great musical."
Parent Jill Kaplan said that the district is known for its musical productions and that they are a highlight amid what she said are falling test scores and a steady decline in education in Baldwin over the years. "We are suffering from bad press and a poor self image and we cannot afford to lose this commodity," Kaplan said.
Scannell vehemently disagreed with her statements, taking issue with Kaplan's remarks about the quality of education in Baldwin schools.
While the reason for Harrington's decision to give up his role as musical director remains a mystery, it was clear that he has strong support from students and admiring parents. Parent Natalie Crowe said she has worked closely with Harrington, and that her phone has been ringing off the hook with calls from dumbfounded parents and students. "Many, many parents and many students are distressed," she said.
Other parents, such as Karen Reed, whose child has been involved with Harrington's productions at the middle school, said, "[Harrington is] bold in his desire to use the stage as a vehicle to reach young people."
Others pleaded with the board to find a way to help Harrington continue in his role. "He is a source of pride for our community," said student Sam Schoenberg, who added that Harrington has been an inspiration. When Schoenberg asked the board to show what it can do to keep Harrington, he received a round of applause from those in attendance.
One parent asked board members not to be "cavalier," saying that they let Harrington slip through their fingers. But Scannell strongly disagreed, insisting that no one on the board held that kind of attitude. Instead, he said, board members had carefully listened to the students and parents all evening. He later said that many people had spoken eloquently, and the students "make us proud every time [they] speak. I applaud [them] for coming out at a very busy time of year."
Summing up the sentiments that had been expressed by other students throughout the evening, one said, "I want my friends to have the same opportunities I've had, and I don't feel that is possible without Mr. Harrington."
Comments about this story? Baldwineditor@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 207.
