USO musical revue set for St. John stage

Two self-described “crazy” moms have decided to produce a play at St. John-Endicott High School.

The two moms, Kelly Lundberg and Rachel Anderson, are producing “Don’t Say No to the USO” which will hit the stage March 27-28 at the St. John auditorium.

“It’s just weird insanity,” Lundberg said.

The musical is set in the 1940s and includes songs from the Big Bands and the Andrews Sisters.

“We wanted to do it because this year’s seniors are such a fun, great, cooperative group of kids,” Lundberg said. “It will be a fun way to end their senior year.”

The students had many plays to choose from.

“We let the kids choose the play and there were plays from the 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s, but they chose this one,” Lundberg said.

“Rachel is a professional musician and I’m just loud,” Lundberg said. “That’s why we make such a good team.”

The women also enlisted Jill Gfeller, who taught dance classes, as choreographer. Lundberg said they have had a lot of help from the community. Patty Cammack also donated some costumes and more costumes are needed.

Lundberg said former English teacher Theresa O’Connell moved out of the school district after her marriage two years ago, leaving the musical department empty of its leader.

There are 20 high school students in the musical, with younger students performing two “bit” parts, Lundberg said.

The musical is about a USO troop that German spies infiltrated and how the spies are caught, Lundberg said.

“It’s also a patriotic tribute to our veterans,” she said.

“I want to give kudos to our kids for being such good sports,” Lundberg said.

The play is at 7 p.m. in the SJE auditorium. Tickets are $10 for families, $4 adults and $2 children.