Batesville Herald Tribune, Batesville, Indiana

Local News

June 11, 2009

'On Our Way' musical highlights Greensburg's 150th

By the time "On Our Way" debuts at the Greensburg High School auditorium, over 6,000 man-hours will have been spent at rehearsals for the musical celebrating the city’s 150th.

Performances are slated for Thursday-Friday, June 18-19, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, June 20, at 2 p.m.

Thirty-five area children and adults star in the "love story that also celebrates life in a small town," reports Bill Blank, Batesville, who wrote the book and lyrics with his friend, Scott Billingsley, Batesville. The composer is his brother, Alan Billingsley, Los Angeles, who composes, arranges and produces music for television and radio commercials, videos, short films and major theme parks. The trio finished the musical in time for Batesville’s sesquicentennial in 2002 and has updated it for Greensburg’s party.

"Audiences will be surprised at the amount of talent in the show. It’s a great cast and they are excited about presenting this new musical," says director Therese Zins, Greensburg.

The show features 14 original songs covering a range of styles. The patriotic tune, “Our Heroes Who Can’t Be Here,” was selected and performed by the Indiana University Singing Hoosiers in 2004. From the character-defining rock song to the moving father-son duet, there is music for all tastes.

Persons who attend “On Our Way” will notice there is no live orchestra. At Alan Billingsley’s studio, professional musicians were prerecorded to provide the instrumental music, to which the cast will sing.

There are two romantic leads, each with solos to develop their characters. The contrasting views of Robert and Toni regarding life in small town Greensburg set the stage for the family-friendly story line. Robert is portrayed by Spencer Heaton, Greensburg, and Toni by Shelley Mitchell, Batesville.

In addition to a slew of Greensburg stars, area cast members include Ross Brewer, Dustin Zins, Libby Zins and Carol Roell, Batesville; and Rhonda Watts, Sunman.

The director is assisted backstage by musical director Dustin Zins, choreographer Laurie Ruble, technical director Matt Clifford and vocal coach Alan Billingsley. Professional scenic designer Herb Caldwell, Batesville, lent his expertise to set design and the technical aspects of the show. Makeup volunteers include Darlene Brewer, Batesville.

Blank says, "I hope that the people who participate in the show enjoy the experience." Of the audience hunting for sesquicentennial merriment, Scott Billingsley adds, "We hope we will exceed their expectations."

Reserved-seat tickets at $10 for adults and $8 for children 12 and under are being sold in advance by calling 812-663-3344 or 812-934-4347 or by stopping by the 150th headquarters on Main Street, Greensburg. They also may be purchased at the door.

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