Pegasus Production Company, the student-run theater company at Christian Brothers Academy in Lincroft, is at it again putting on another amazing show- the hilarious musical The 25^th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.

With a cast and crew of over 60 students, including females from neighboring schools, Spelling Bee is the tale of several socially awkward youngsters finding joy, heartache and a purpose in competing at the regional spelling bee.

Behind The Scenes

Because of the musical’s unique structure that involves audience participation (possibly including some well-known CBA faculty), the students of the company faced new challenges at the outset.

Actors had to acquire improvisational skills to adapt to the show’s aspect of chance, and crew members constructed, painted, and decorated a gym setting inside Henderson Theater. The show involved firsts for its cast members as well.

Freshman Luca Ferraro, an ensemble member, described his experience with the Company in his first CBA musical: “I have met new people, learned new talents and realized that I have a passion to act. I loved every moment of it; working with amazing people and pursing my talents. I hope that in the coming years I build a stronger bond with the friends I have made, make new friends and enhance my talents as an actor.”

Portraying Lead Coneybear, senior Anthony Frigoletto detailed his first experience with the company: “Being in my first and last show with Pegasus has been great. Rehearsals have been exciting and satisfying, thanks to the friendly environment. It has been a fun challenge playing Leaf.”

Performing For a Cause

What makes this show even more special is that Pegasus Production Company will be helping support a great cause on March 11, the second Friday evening performance. Proceeds and donations received on that night will support “Our Special Place,” a local non-profit organization that helps children with autism develop their social skills in the classroom environment.

Within the classroom environment, children complete various activities that help to develop their verbal and sensory skills. Social skills are developed through various activities including cooking, science, crafts, exercise, music, and team building. Outside of the classroom, “Our Special Place” holds events such as an annual Surf Day and a Pasta Dinner designed around the needs of the children. The children are a part of small groups of children with similar needs that meet once a week and are led by a teacher and trained assistant. Every session builds on the last to reinforce positive and appropriate peer interactions in a fun environment.

Pegasus Production Company decided to donate to “Our Special Place” because of the personal relationship that many of members have with autism. Many of our members, past and present, either know or are related to someone with autism. A few of our members, such as Alex Kelly and Zach Zeborowski, have worked inside of the classroom with these children. Members of Pegasus and those that have worked with “Our Special Place” see this as an excellent opportunity to give back to the community and help some awesome people along the way!

Don’t Miss Out!

Tickets are now available for Pegasus Production Company’s Spring Musical, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” Shows will be on March 4, 5, 6, 10, 11 & 12.

After a very successful fall presentation of“Sherlock Holmes: The Case of the Jersey Lily,” Pegasus Production Company is set to impress with spirited vocals, impressive numbers, and an all-around compelling performance.