Passaic County Technical Institute’s (PCTI) production of In the Heights opened to a sold out performance on Friday, March 31st. Luckily, musical lovers were given two more opportunities to enjoy the phenomenal show with a matinée and evening performance on Saturday, April 1st.
In celebration of the arts, audience members were on their feet delivering standing ovations, applauding wildly for the high-energy show that combined superb acting, a hip hop inspired score, and powerful performances by the school’s orchestra which was beautifully directed by Performing Arts Instructor Jose Martinez. PCTI’s In the Heights boasted countless talented leads with powerful pipes, including Marcos Rivera as Usnavi De La Vega, Kayla Barilari as Nina Rosario, Frank Ramos as Kevin Rosario, Krystal Tapia as Camila Rosario, Christopher Cortez as Benny, Janais Martinez as Vanessa, Michael Lozano as Sonny, Emely Alba as Abuela Claudia, Grace Diaz as Daniela, Lidia Drybushar as Carla, and more. Students did an impeccable job of telling the story of the largely Dominican-American neighborhood of Washington Heights in New York City.
Those in attendance were amazed by a set likely to be found on the stages of Broadway. The multi-tiered marvel was specially designed and developed by Construction Technology Instructor Bob Vendetti and was constructed with the help of faculty and carpentry students. Throughout the evening, the stage transformed from the barrio, to the indoors of a club, and so much more.
The expert guidance of Director Douglas Smith and Managing Director Lynn Quinn ensured the show was a stunning success. The phenomenal performances allowed all of PCTI’s students to shine and ensured a memorable time was had by all!
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PCTI’s In the Heights Opens with Sold Out Show Marcos Rivera (Paterson) and Emely Alba (Paterson) perform a powerful duet during PCTI’s In the Heights.  Krystal Tapia (Passaic), Kayla Barilari (Clifton), Emely Alba (Paterson), and Janais Martinez (Passaic) share a scene during PCTI’s In the Heights.  PCTI’s stage is transformed into an elaborate night club during this year’s spring musical.  Grace Diaz (Passaic) belts out some strong notes during the performance of “Carnaval del Barrio.” |