March 7, 13, 14 at 7:30 p.m.; March 8, 14, 15 at 2:00 p.m.
Youth Musical Theater Company (YMTC) presents "The Music Man," opening Sat., March 7, at the El Cerrito Performing Arts Theater, 540 Ashbury Ave. Its run consists of three 7:30 p.m. performances (3/7, 3/13, 3/14), and three 2:00 p.m. matinees (3/8, 3/14, 3/15).
"The Music Man" is the story of Harold Hill, who uses his wit and charm to con small towns by posing as a music teacher selling instruments to organize boys' bands. However, when he gets to River City, Iowa, there's one person he can't fool-the sharp librarian and piano teacher Marian Paroo-and a classic love-at-first-fight story ensues. Winner of six Tony Awards and family-friendly, "The Music Man" will feature a full, live 26-piece orchestra.
According to Musical Director David Moschler, "The Music Man is one of those rare examples of a musical with a perfectly integrated book and score. The score moves deftly between well-known ballads, rousing dance numbers, and unforgettable barbershop quartet music. I'm thrilled to bring this to life with Don Walker's original orchestration for 26 musicians."
Director Jennifer Boesing adds, "'The Music Man' is more than an romantic comedy. People and things are not always what they first seem: an arguing city council becomes a barbershop quartet; an awkward, sad little boy becomes an exuberant musician; a defiant, lonely piano teacher becomes a passionate ingenue; and an oily con-man becomes an inspiration and a hero."
"The Music Man" features a cast and crew of over 40 performing arts students ages 12-21. They work as actors, musicians, and technical theater apprentices. They are led by a team of professional directors and designers.
Tickets are available online at https://www.ymtcbayarea.org and at the door before curtain. Ticket prices are $16-32, with discounts for students, seniors, military, teachers, and groups. YMTC offers one "pay-what-you-can" performance on Friday, 3/13, at 7:30 p.m., when seats will be offered for cash-only at the box office.