Merrick School District

Students in Chatterton’s upper grades have been hard at work bringing this year’s after-school theater production to life.

Fifth and sixth-grade cast members have been preparing for their roles in Chatterton on Stage, the school’s self-sustaining, annual theatrical production for months. Following their September auditions, students have been rehearsing twice per week. 
Chatterton on Stage performed three shows of “The Big One-OH!", a heartfelt and funny show that celebrates friendship, growing up, and other milestone moments. Both the show and the book it was based on were written by Dean Pitchford, the Oscar-winning songwriter of hits such as Footloose, Fame, Holding Out for a Hero, After All, and many more. 

Prior to taking the show to the stage, the cast had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Pitchford about how The Big One-OH came to be. The conversation, which took place on zoom, was an enlightening look into the writing process, as well as the inspiration behind the story and characters, which undoubtedly assisted in their success.

The production was supported by parent volunteers, student helpers from Sanford H. Calhoun High School’s On Tour Co., and Shira Voulgarakis, reading teacher and director of Chatterton on Stage.