It’s a jungle out there, and that’s good news for area residents who want to be entertained. Naperville Central High School theater students bring the Disney animated classic turned Broadway musical to life when “Tarzan” opens this weekend.
“Audiences can expect a familiar story, but the storytelling is fresh and unique,” said drama and stage director Mike Doman. “From the start, we wanted to create a living jungle; the plants, animals, and even the human characters work together to build the landscape and tell the story.”
The musical follows the story of Tarzan, played by Matteo Sabato, a boy who is raised in the jungle by a family of apes. After a grown up Tarzan meets an English naturalist named Jane, played by Morgan Bulger, they fall in love and complications ensue.
It’s Bulger’s first time in a lead role, and she said “Tarzan” is an exciting show to take that leap – literally. Not only does Tarzan swing from the vines, but Bulger’s character and four others take flight during the performances.
“It’s really cool,” said the 18-year-old senior. “Obviously it’s a difficult thing to do in a high school (production), but it adds a lot of excitement to the show.”
Producer and musical director Curt Parry said he chose “Tarzan” – which wasn’t available for amateur productions until recently – because it was a good fit his students. A cast and crew of more than 65 have been preparing for the show since early February.
“This is a talented and dedicated group,” said Parry. “The best part of being a teacher is (having the opportunity) to see students develop and become the performers that you thought they could be.”
Parry has seen his fair share of talent over the 29 years as a teacher and producer at Central. In 1985, he debuted at the helm of the musical “Working.” This year, his final curtain call will be after “Tarzan,” as he is retiring at the end of the school year.
“I certainly have mixed emotions about this being the last show I direct at Naperville Central,” said Parry. “I’ve had the pleasure of working beside some dedicated individuals. Our combined efforts are what makes these musicals shine. The delight of directing many young high school performers has been a blessing for me.”
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Principal Bill Wiesbrook said Parry is a “class act” who will be remembered for being an “amazing teacher who has touched countless lives during his time at Naperville Central High School.”
“He has been a superb model for our students and staff,” said Wiesbrook. “He approaches everything with a positive mindset, and consistently strives to do his best and encourage others to do the same. If he has a weakness, I’m not aware of it. He is a class act, and will be missed.”
If you go
What: “Tarzan,” the musical
Where: Naperville Central High School Auditorium, 440 West Aurora Avenue in downtown Naperville
When: 7:30 p.m on April 24 and 25; at 2:30 p.m. on April 26
Cost: Tickets are $10 adult reserved or $8 for students and seniors reserved; $6 for all general admission. They are available daily from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. inside the school’s front entrance or at the door before each performance. For more information, call 630-420-6834.