There are some things parents enjoyed back in their youth that they would like to share with their children so they can get the same enjoyment. It could be a book, a song, a television show or even just a concept.
In Eastern High School’s fall play “Free to Be… You and Me,” parents with their children and other audiences get to experience all these things.
“It’s great for me to see a new generation of kids discovering it. Their parents are thrilled their kids are doing it. Some of the parents were more excited than the kids, but since the kids have experienced the material, they’ve really embraced it and enjoyed it,” said Gregg Molotsky, director of the fall play.
Based on the popular book, album (1972) and television show (1974) by Marlo Thomas, “Free to Be… You and Me” was cutting edge for its time. The play/musical mix features stories, songs and poetry from the book and album that teach about gender neutrality, individuality and tolerance, saying boys and girls can do anything.
“It still has many things to say many years later. Kids should be free to be who they are, not based on gender or other stereotypes,” Molotsky said.
The choice to do the show, according to Molotsky, was based on “polishing off an old gem.” He wanted to bring back the songs and stories, as well as the show’s themes, which still apply today, even after more than 40 years.
“It’s like opening your old favorite book and getting to read it again. It is nice to hear it again and to see them enjoying it as much as I do,” Molotsky said.
The show is a mash-up of song, dance, stories and poetry with no connecting plot, but a lot of connecting themes. Themes such as gender neutrality, breaking stereotypes and tolerance are just a few of the messages that are displayed in the show.
“My favorite part of the show is the meaning behind everything. Although it is a very childish thing, it is teaching really meaningful lessons for younger people and older people as well,” sophomore Gary Bowman said.
Because of the show’s structure, there are also no leads, which speaks to the themes of the show. All students get a chance to be featured.
“Everyone is equal, which really helps for the message of the show. No one is better than anyone,” Bowman said.
“Everyone is involved and made to feel special,” senior Lauren Zinsky said.
Eastern’s “Free to Be… You and Me” will be performed at the high school on Nov. 20, 21 and 22 at 7 p.m. with a matinee on Nov. 22 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $6 and can be bought at the door. The box office will open an hour before the show.
“Come to see the show,” Bowman and Zinsky said.
