It’s a family affair

West Branch production of ‘Annie’ to feature adult chorus featuring staff, community and alumni; help fund renovation of auditorium lobby

BELOIT-- This month's production of "Annie" at West Branch High School will offer more than just musical entertainment.

The West Branch Music Department is staging the musical Feb. 21 through 23, and it will be a community effort to raise funds for a renovation project at the auditorium as it reaches its 20th year.

Community Chorus

The production will include a special adult chorus featuring members of the staff, community and alumni.

"We are inviting the community to participate so the cast is large," Musical Director John Zamarelli said, "[and so community members] become engaged with the fine arts department."

Over the past 25 years of Zamarelli's career, thousands of students have come through the theatre program and the community chorus will give them another chance to tread the boards in their hometown.

"Some participated when they were in high school and this gives them the opportunity once again," Zamarelli said.

The production will also offer community members an opportunity to perform in the auditorium, as well as with the younger generations in their family.

"We are excited to welcome all alumni back home to their performance space where many memories, stories and fun happened," Zamarelli said. "For many, this will be their first performance in our beautiful auditorium, and some will get to perform on stage with their children, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews."

The community has played a significant role in the fine arts success at West Branch, and now those who have supported the programs over the years can have a first-hand part in a production.

"Our music and theatre department has received the Best Communities of Music Education designation through National Association of Music Merchants for the past six years. It is a national award that is awarded to very few school districts. Part of that award is due to our amazingly supportive community and alumni," Zamarelli said. "We feel it will be a very special performance by including all of these people who have helped make both our music and theatre program top notch."

There will be no auditions for the adult chorus. Rehearsals will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. the next three Sundays, Feb. 2, 9 and 16. If participants have a conflict during rehearsal time, the music department will work those out with each individual.

Questions can be referred to Zamarelli at john.zamarelli@wbwarriors.org or to Krista Clay at krista.clay@wbwarriors.org. Questions can also be directed to the high school by calling 330-938-2183 Ext. 37359. Information has also been posted on the West Branch Music Department Facebook page and Instagram account (@wbmusicdept).

Renovation fundraiser

Zamarelli said the profits of this particular show is going to be a fundraiser to remodel the West Branch Community Auditorium lobby.

In the year 2000, the current auditorium was built through private donations for music department productions. To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the building, the music department intends to remodel the current lobby to make it into a more welcoming, relaxing environment for patrons and community members attending concerts and productions.

Zamarelli said the renovation will include track lighting, furniture and artwork. It will provide seating for older patrons and people waiting for the doors to open and to showcase student artwork, he added.

Anyone who cannot attend the shows, but would like to contribute, may send donations care of John Zamarelli/Lobby Project to West Branch Local School District, 14277 S. Main St., Beloit OH 44609.

Showtimes

Shows for "Annie" will be held at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 21 and 22 and 2 p.m. February 23. Tickets are available online at http://www.wbmusic.org.

"I hope this production will be the largest ever staged bringing together a culmination of community, alumni and faculty/staff celebrating what our theatre productions have always been about--bringing together our community for a spectacular cultural experience," Zamarelli said.