Baldwin High School Brings Popular 1984 Film to Life on Stage
Kevin Bacon, eat your heart out!
Baldwin High School’s performing arts program recently ‘cut loose,’ delivering one of the best musical performances in the school’s history with their production of Footloose.
Adapted from the 1984 film, the stage version infused the Baldwin community with dance, emotion, and a distinct 80’s style. André H. Poprilo, the fine and performing arts director, remarked, “This year's production perfectly exemplified how our music and theater programs serve as educational tools for students. As an education administrator, witnessing students excel within the framework provided by our talented teachers brings immense joy.”
Such was the caliber of the production that adjudicators nominated Aaron Martin III (grade 11) and Mia Smith (grade 12) for the esteemed Roger Rees Awards.
Narrative of Rebellion, Healing, and Hope
Senior Brandon Firth portrayed Ren McCormack, the Chicago youth challenging Bomont’s dance prohibition. Opposite him, Ava Celeste Iraola-Velazquez delivered a spirited performance as Ariel Moore, with their chemistry evident in “Almost Paradise.” David Kreutz added depth as Reverend Shaw Moore, while Mia Smith, as Vi, conveyed compassion in songs like “Learning to Be Silent” and “Can You Find It in Your Heart.” Rose Altschuler provided grounding as Ren’s mother, Ethel.
Aaron Martin III as Willard served as the comic relief in the play, particularly with his performance of the popular ballad, “Mama Says.” Ariel’s friends—Layla Gentles, Madison Kurz, and Adinah Bonhomette—impressed with powerful vocals in “Somebody’s Eyes” and “Holding Out for a Hero.” Bruce Revels III introduced tension as Chuck Cranston, with Caleb Deratus and Canyon Zito. A vibrant ensemble, including select Baldwin Middle School performing arts students, energized the stage with numbers like “Footloose,” “I’m Free,” and the finale.
Behind the Scenes
Stephanie Muir conducted the pit orchestra, comprised of student musicians and community professionals, maintaining the show’s momentum. The student-run Stage Crew, under Caitlyn Dennis, managed sets, lighting, and costumes. Anthony DeAngelis managed lighting, Andrew Campbell oversaw scenic work, and student designers coordinated costumes.
Stage Director Tricia Wilder, Vocal Director Christine Benedetti, Choreographer AnnMarie Lupo, and a committed creative team shaped the production.
Ms. Wilder, who is also a kindergarten teacher at Plaza Elementary School, reflected on the students’ camaraderie and her delight in directing them. “The highlight of my day was walking into the high school and spending time with this cast. They are not only incredibly talented actors, singers, and dancers, they are remarkable human beings. I may get to sprinkle a little fairy dust as the director, but they are the true heart and soul of this production. Watching them lift one another up, support each other, and celebrate each other’s successes is what makes this Footloose cast so special. I am incredibly lucky to work with such amazing kids.”
Ms. Benedetti, who was vocal directing a high school musical for the first time, was impressed by the students' musical talent and dedication. She praised the district’s expanding theater community. “It’s rare to find young performers who not only bring such passion to their craft but also have the skills and discipline to bring their creative visions to life. Paired with a directing team that works tirelessly and leads with genuine care—always putting students as people first—we have something incredibly special here in Baldwin.”
She also acknowledged the special collaboration between the directors and students as well as the educational experiences the district makes possible for the students. The summer theater program integrates middle school students into high school shows, while elementary students are welcomed into middle school productions, creating enriching learning experiences. Additionally, Baldwin invites Broadway clinicians and master teachers from Long Island to mentor students.
“It’s this combination that creates extraordinary work—and it’s truly exciting to be a part of it- and why our productions are so successful!” she said.
Indeed, it’s a combined effort. The collaborative masterpiece also included the contributions of the Stage Crafts & Entertainment Technology class, who designed the set under the guidance of their teacher, Mr. Vinny Leis. “In collaboration with André Poprilo, the Baldwin School District’s Fine Arts & Music Director, we aimed to create sustainable and flexible scenic elements for stage productions,” he explained. “The students constructed two 12-step staircases and three two-story wagons, gaining essential production skills.”
A significant innovation was transforming traditional heavy flats into lightweight, magnetic modular flats, enabling rapid transitions and enhancing the theatrical experience. “This approach, coupled with integrating modular doors, underscores our commitment to modernizing stagecraft while enriching students' educational experiences and production quality,” he added.
Bravo to All Involved!
The 2025 fall musical will go down in Baldwin history as one of the more memorable performances to be staged at Baldwin High School.