‘Seussical the Musical’ a success for J-DAPA

By PETE FONTAINE

As much as what’s up front, it’s the behind-the-scenes efforts that make any production a success.

Take last Friday evening, when Johnston Dance and Performing Arts (J-DAPA) presented its spring show, “Seussical the Musical.”

Many cast members getting makeup done and adjusting their colorful costumes were having fun back stage.

And that atmosphere spilled onto the stage at Johnston High School.

Equally important to the production’s success, as producer, director, and J-DAPA founder Donna Tellier said, were the young people who played the music that went along with each and every act, as well as the lighting and sound techs.

Each of J-DAPA’s three performances received rave reviews, which was yet another terrific testimony to the abilities of Tellier’s troupe.

“When Suessical was first suggested as one of the shows we should do, I was not completely on board,” Tellier said. “But I must say I’m extremely happy to have gotten to know more of Dr. Seuss’ works and the wonderful messages his stories have.”

Tellier – who praised music director Dave Gawron – added: “This musical has so many message that I feel are important to all of us, especially as adults. One of my favorites is, ‘A person’s a person no matter how small.’”

J-DAPA staffers who made “Seussical the Musical” an overwhelming success off stage were Donna Tellier, choreography; Aubrey Tellier, music and sounds effects; Steve Bruno, Ron Tellier, and JD Warren, set designs and construction; Alexis Guglielmo, Talia Guglielmo, and Lynn DeNoncour, sets; Eddie DiLorenzo, Tyler Graveline, Xavier Greene, Abby Heiser, Patrick Leonard, Phillip Lemoi, Larissa McGuirl, Liz Monti, Even Pennacchia, Michael Pastore, and Aubrey Tellier, techs; Donne Tellier and Lorraine Tammelleo, costumes; and program and ticket deigns, Aubrey Tellier.