ECHOSTAGE/ENCORE Stages IN THE HEIGHTS, Now thru 7/27

Twenty-five young men and women are singing and dancing as their voices and movements express their sheer joy of community and brotherly love. The beat is partly Latino pop/salsa, partly rap, and partly the inspiring heartbeats of those who are truly in love. Sound like a fiesta in some far away, exotic Hispanic locale?

The scene is actually a nearby rehearsal of talented performers at the Coweta Centre for Performing and Visual Arts on Lower Fayetteville Road in Newnan. They are giving their all to create a dazzling theatrical production of "In the Heights." This Broadway show won multiple Tony awards, including "Best Musical" and "Best Choreography." This entertaining musical will be performed tonight, July 25 and July 26 & 27 at 7:00pm. Tickets ($10 and $8) are available through the office at the Centre (770-254-2787).

"In the Heights" is being staged by ECHOSTAGE sponsored by Richard McMichen and Scott Ondovchik and the ENCORE Summer Program led by Mr. Don Nixon, Director of The Centre. The actors, singers, and dancers are primarily graduates of the Coweta County High Schools. The story is of a Latino community called "Washington Heights" in northern Manhattan. The characters are mostly first and second generation US citizens who struggle with the pull of their Latino heritage and cultures against the pressing need and desire to fit in as Americans. Romance blossoms, fireworks explode, families disagree, and young people mature; all the while, music, dance, truth, and laughter turn all the struggles into worthwhile life-lessons.

The exciting and challenging choreography is by Dr. Pam Wright, and the music direction and vocal training is by Christy Hauert. Erin Walton also coached the soloists. The set was designed and constructed by the Stage Manager, Tarun Patel, and his dedicated crew. Madison Fouche and Kit Matheny are the technical directors for the show.