With the pomp and fanfare of New York City, the brassy lyricism of Leonard Bernstein, and the sweet immediacy of a day of freedom during a time of war, “On the Town” is an American classic, beloved both for its moment in history and for its timeless qualities of youth and exuberance.
Over Mother’s Day weekend, the Madison Theatre at Molloy College will feature the stage production, presented by the Molloy College CAP 21 theatre arts program. Showtimes are at 2 and 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 12 and 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 13.
“On the Town” follows the adventures of three sailors on leave for just 24 hours in the great city of New York before heading off to battle in World War II. Goofy ladies’ man Ozzie is looking for a date — maybe seven or eight — and studious, innocent Chip, guidebook in hand, has several days’ worth of tourist attractions to check off his list.
But when idealistic Gabey falls for the photograph of lovely Miss Turnstiles, a subway beauty queen, they all join in an ambitious scavenger hunt around the city to locate this dream girl — and, on the way, find all of the romance, adventure, and New York atmosphere for which they could wish.
Joined by Claire, a sophisticated anthropologist with a red-hot heart, and Hildy, a sweetly aggressive cab driver on the lam, the sailors careen through museums and nightclubs, Carnegie Hall, and Coney Island, before Gabey and Ivy are finally united — just in the knick of time.
With brash and bittersweet abandon, “On the Town” is a tale about seizing the day and living life to its fullest and features memorable songs including the upbeat “I Can Cook, Too,” the ballad “Lonely Town,” and the most iconic of tunes, “New York, New York.”
To purchase tickets to the event, go to www.madisontheatreny.com. The Madison Theatre at Molloy College is located at 1000 Hempstead Ave. in Rockville Centre.
