Students at High Tech High School in Secaucus, located on the Frank J. Gargiulo campus, part of the Hudson County Schools of Technology, have been rehearsing for this week’s performances of Cabaret for more than four months. Based on Joe Masteroff’s book, the play features musical and dance numbers, plus period clothing from the 1930’s Nazi Germany as depicted in the 1966 version of John Druten’s play.
The cast consists of 19 students, with 11 more comprising the stage crew. The play is set in 1930s Berlin, Germany during the Holocaust.
This version features a lot of acting by the students, as well as musical and dance numbers, plus an important message regarding the discrimination of others which holds true to this day.
One of the most unique aspects of this musical production is that the students not only perform, they manage the show in conjunction with the stage hand union, Local 59, doing the sound and lighting through an apprenticeship program.
According to Hudson County Superintendent of Schools Amy Lin-Rodriguez, “HCST provides opportunities for apprenticeships through their partnership with IATSE Local 59, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.”
This is a student performance not to be missed.
A special performance for the student body took place this afternoon, but tickets are available for public performances on Thursday and Friday, January 26 and 27 at 7 pm, and for Saturday, January 28 at 3 pm. Prices are $10, $5 for students. Just log onto the school website at hths.hcstonline.org.
