Holy Cross Alternate College Theatre Presents Student-Directed ‘Pal Joey’

WORCESTER, Mass. – The Holy Cross Alternate College Theater presents Rodger & Hart’s classic musical, Pal Joey on Jan. 26 and 27 at 8 p.m.; Jan. 28 at 2 and 8 p.m. and Jan. 29 at 2 p.m. in Fenwick Theatre at the College of the Holy Cross. Tickets are $7 for the Holy Cross community and $10 for the general public.

Set in the seamy 1930’s Chicago nightclub circuit, the production follows the mishaps of Joey, an MC who elbows his way into a job at a seedy Chicago nightclub and is soon juggling the affections of a naive chorus girl and a wealthy socialite who just happens to be married. Once Joey has charmed the socialite into setting him up in his own club, he ditches the chorus girl and is riding high, playing the big-time operator. When a punk threatens to spill the whole business to the socialite’s husband, she decides that she’s bored with Joey anyway, dumping him and the club. Having had a taste of his own medicine, you’d think Joey would head back to the sweet girl who really loves him. Wrong. Some things never change, but you know what? He’s still on his feet.

The penultimate Rodgers & Hart collaboration introduced the first anti-hero to propel a musical. Joey is an opportunistic cad, but he always seems to land on his feet. Featuring an unforgettable score that includes "If I Could Write a Book," "Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered," and "Zip," Pal Joey is certain to entertain.

The Alternate College Theater is a student-run organization. Every aspect of the production — from the directing to the lighting design — is done by Holy Cross students. Michael Lueger ’07 plays Joey, Kate Lowry ’06 plays the socialite, while Eric Butler ’06 directs. Other members of the production staff include costume designer Katherine Fritz ’08, set designer Pat Gavin ’07, choreographer Caroline Maus ’06, and musical directors Jack Hanlon ’06 and Lauren Doucette ’08.

Pal Joey is suitable for all audiences.

For press tickets or for more information, contact Rachel Mergens at ramerg07@holycross.edu or call the ACT box office at 508-793-3536.