Finley Musical a Smash Hit
March 26, 2025
The J. Taylor Finley Middle School drama club’s production of “Once Upon A Mattress Jr.” last weekend was a smash hit by any measure, especially audience reaction. A pair of near full houses enjoyed the musical and took delight in the efforts of both cast and crew.
“The weekend was a huge success for the students in Finley drama club,” Mrs. Graber said. “The event was well attended, leading to a near sellout crowd. The students performed brilliantly. Exceptional performances were shared by Lena Sullivan, Brady Duke and Elena Prior who really took their characters to the next level at the performances.”
Director Susan Graber and assistant director Jessica Simms could not have been more pleased with how weeks of rehearsals turned out. Students on the stage and behind the scenes shined.
“The crew was led by ‘Booth Master’ Jaden Scott and backstage by Amelia Brown,” Mrs. Graber said. “The talented work of the artists and Ms. Simms was on full display, especially with the beautiful work on the beds and the columns. We would also like to thank the National Junior Honor Society of Finley for their help in selling concessions.”
The production team, including music teacher Frank Battista, who served as director of light and sound and many hardworking students pulled together and executed their roles perfectly.
“The Finley drama club thrives on its family atmosphere, really working together as a team to create a wonderful experience for students to grow and create a production that is spectacular for the audience,” Mrs. Graber said. “Even though we all go through a withdrawal of not being together after the show is over, we all look forward to seeing what the students will go on to do at the high school and next year at Finley! We hope everyone will continue to support Huntington theater by attending Mean Girls this weekend.”
