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The Martha's Vineyard Times The Martha's Vineyard Times The Martha's Vineyard Times
The Martha's Vineyard Times The Martha's Vineyard Times

Theatre

Lexi Willet, Talia Segal, Olivia DeGeoffrey, Amalie Tinus and Justin Smith
(From left) Gangsters Lexi Willet, Talia Segal, and Olivia DeGeoffrey take aim at Blousey Brown (Amalie Tinus) and Bugsy Malone (Justin Smith). Photos by Ralph Stewart

"You rat. You dirty rat"

By Anna Marie D'Addarie - March 8, 2006

You will enjoy the musical at the West Tisbury School this weekend, or else. "Bugsy Malone Junior" will open this Friday and run through Sunday and this tongue-in-cheek gangster musical is sure to be a "hit" with the entire family.

"Bugsy Malone Junior" is a fun tribute to the 1920s gangster flicks. The story follows Fat Sam, who runs one of the most popular clubs in town. The club is in danger of being closed down by business rival Dandy Dan. Baby-faced Bugsy Malone arrived to help Fat Sam, but also catches the eye of Fat Sam's girlfriend, Tallulah.

Eli D'Agostino and Charlotte Benjamin
Club owner Fat Sam (Eli D'Agostino) and his "moll" Tallulah (Charlotte Benjamin).

A gang war breaks out. Wait until you see what will replace the 1920s Tommy gun. In true Hollywood fashion and borrowing a bit of Shakespeare, all's well that ends well.

The show is made available to schools through Music Theatre International's (MTI) education division, which works with authors of classic musicals to create special editions for students aged 8 to 14 to perform. This show was written by Alan Parker, with music and lyrics by Paul Williams. Mr. Williams composed the music for "The Muppet Movie" and his score for "Bugsy" is "a wonderful showcase for the young performers," according to Jordan Winderl, music teacher and show director at the West Tisbury School.

To celebrate opening night this Friday, the students will receive a certificate signed by Mr. Williams and Mr. Parker commending the cast and encouraging them to keep the arts in their lives.

"Bugsy Malone Junior," Friday, March 9, Saturday, March 10, at 7 pm, and Sunday, March 11, at 3 pm, at the West Tisbury School, Old County Road. Tickets are $5. For more information, call 508-696-7738.