Upper Darby Summer Stage Presents 42ND STREET

Upper Darby Summer Stage presents its crown jewel of the season, the mainstage production "42nd Street" on July 27, 28 and August 3, 4 at 7:30 p.m. and August 4 at 1:30 p.m. Performances take place at the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center.

The ultimate show-biz musical and multiple Tony-Award winner, "42nd Street" is a celebration of Broadway and the people who create the magic of musical theatre. Featuring show-stopping tap dance numbers, a classic musical score, and an electric Broadway style finale, "42nd Street" will dazzle theater lovers of all ages. With music by Harry Warren and lyrics by Al Dubin and Johnny Mercer, audiences will recognize classics tunes like "Lullaby of Broadway," "We're in the Money," and "Shuffle Off to Buffalo."

Tickets for this production are affordable ranging from $14 to $17 enabling anyone to experience a professional, high standard production. Tickets may be purchased at udpac.org or by calling the box office at 610.622.1189.

The Upper Darby Performing Arts Center is located at 601 N. Lansdowne Avenue, minutes from the Main Line and Center City. The performance is approximately 2.5 hours, including intermission. Parking is free.

Set in the early 1930s, aspiring chorus girl Peggy Sawyer (Meghan Dietzler of Upper Darby) travels to the "Big Apple" from Allentown, Pennsylvania to audition for elite director Julian Marsh's (Chris Monaco of Wallingford) Broadway production. With her natural sparkle and hoofing skills, she lands a job in the ensemble of Marsh's "Pretty Lady," starring Dorothy Brock (Rachel Medori of Drexel Hill) and Billy Lawlor (Danny Walsh of Aldan). Just before opening night, the leading lady Dorothy breaks her ankle taking her out of the show. Peggy might just have a shot at Broadway stardom.

This production features a professional staff of costume, set, and lighting designers. Brian Walsh of Drexel Hill is the director, choreographers are Kevin Dietzler of Drexel Hill and Devon Sinclair of Upper Darby and music direction is by Gina Giachero of Folsom. The professional live orchestra will bring the classic musical to life. The set, designed by Martin Dallago of Media, and costumes designed by Julia Poiesz of Swarthmore, will transform audiences into the world of Broadway in the 1930s.

Choreographers Kevin Dietzler and Devon Sinclair discuss the intricate choreography. Sinclair stated, "One of the most captivating characters in this show is the choreography itself. Its infectious energy lives and breathes in each song and takes the audience on an unforgettable journey. With traditional Broadway showmanship and inventive staging, you will sit speechless at the athleticism, talent, and heart necessary to perform a piece of this caliber!"

For more information about "42nd Street" and Upper Darby Summer Stage's 43rd season visit udpac.org.

About Mainstage productions at Upper Darby Summer Stage:

Each season Upper Darby Summer Stage presents a spectacular, full-scale musical Mainstage production. Aspiring actors ages 18-28, along with Children's Theater "graduates" have the opportunity to audition. Mainstage members rehearse in the evenings during the summer, beginning in early June and culminating in performances in late July.

The Mainstage productions at Summer Stage have been deemed "Broadway in Delaware County." Professional set, lighting, and costume designers add to the magic each year. The heart, dedication, and passion of the actors make each show unforgettable.

Upper Darby Summer Stage is not only a great place to see a spectacular show, but also a great place for students to grow as artists and as people. Visit udpac.org for more information.

The Upper Darby Performing Arts Center and Upper Darby Summer Stage are jointly sponsored by Upper Darby Township Mayor and Council and the Upper Darby School District Board of School Directors through the Department of Recreation and Leisure Services.

Photo Caption from left to right: Rachel Medori of Drexel Hill as Dorothy Brock, Chris Monaco of Wallingford as Julian Marsh, Meghan Dietzler of Upper Darby as Peggy Sawyer, and Danny Walsh of Aldan as Billy Lawlor. Photo credit; Cate R. Paxson.

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