High School North presents “Bye, Bye Birdie,” the musical about American society set in 1958. Opening night on Thursday, February 28, includes a dinner at 5 p.m. followed by the show. Dinner is $8 and the 6:30 p.m. show is $12.
Though the story was inspired by Elvis Presley being drafted into the army in 1957, the title character’s name, Conrad Birdie, was a play on Conrad Twitty’s name. The country music singer was a rival of the king of rock and roll.
The lunch room is being transformed into a diner. Photo ops will be available. The cast will perform a number from the show. Each child will receive a souvenir — and perhaps a Conrad Birdie Fan Club button.
Other performances are Friday, March 1, at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, March 2, at 2 and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, March 3, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $12.
High School South presents “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,” a musical by Jeffery Lane with music and lyrics by David Yazbek, based on the 1988 film. Performances will be at South on Thursday and Friday, March 7 and 8, at 7:30 p.m.; and Saturday, March 9, at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door; $12 for adults and $10 for students.
The Tony award-winning musical comedy takes place on the French Riviera. It is the tale of two con artists, both making a living by swindling wealthy women out of their wealth. Realizing that there is not room in town for both of them they settle the problem by wagering that the first one to extract $50,000 from a young female target, wins, and the other must leave town.
The cast includes Brian Schoenauer, Tom Efstathios, Marlena Bhame, David Catalano, Erin McElwee, and Isidora Filipovic.
Bye Bye Birdie, High School North, 90 Grovers Mill Road, Plainsboro. Thursday, February 28, to Sunday, March 3. $12. 609-716-5100.
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, High School South, 346 Clarksville Road, West Windsor. Thursday, March 7, to Saturday, March 9. $12. 609-716-5050.
