DERRY — Many of the most beloved songs from American music's swing era come to life as Kids Coop Theatre presents its summer production of "Swing!" on stage at the Adams Memorial Opera House.
"I love this style of music. It's really jazzy," cast member Sean Themea of Chester said. "There's six-part harmonies and crazy syncopations, but this cast pulls it off well."
The show features recognizable songs, including "It Don't Mean A Thing (If It Ain't Got That Swing)" and "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," and gives the youth cast a chance to perform some of the most popular songs of the 1930s and 1940s.
"Swing!" features 32 local teens, ages 13 to 18, and an 11-piece swing band, also made up of local teens. The show was originally conceived by Paul Kelly and first directed and choreographed by Lynne Taylor-Corbett.
"This production is a real departure from what KCT normally does," producer Mark Berglund said. "Our teen members wanted to do a show that would challenge them and really put their talents to the test. 'Swing!' has done just that, but this cast continues to amaze me with what they can do and how well they are doing it."
Many of the young cast members agreed and said the show was a bit different from other Kids Coop offerings in past years.
Rachelle Choiniere from Hudson said this was her first Kids Coop show.
"I'm a dancer and this type of show is right up my alley," she said.
Derry student Jess Beland agreed and said she is also enjoying the dancing.
"This choreography is so challenging," Jess said. "The things we're doing — flips, dips, splits — most of us have never done that before."
"Swing!" performances are set for July 30 and Aug. 6 at 7:30 p.m. and July 31 at 2:30 p.m. at the Adams Memorial Opera House in Derry.
Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for students and seniors for the shows July 30 and Aug. 6. All tickets are $10 for the performance July 31. Tickets are available at Daren's Music Center in Derry or online, kids-coop-theatre.org.
