The Music Man is right at home in Fallbrook's hometown theater

Fallbrook’s Mission Theater and CAST will be housing Meredith Willson’s “The Music Man,” on the weekends, from May 7 to May 23. According to producer Patty Hornsveld, the musical is right at home in Fallbrook.

The plot of “The Music Man” takes place in small River City, Iowa, and revolves around Professor Harold Hill, played by J. Brad Britton, a conman posing as a children’s band organizer and leader who sells band instruments and uniforms to the naïve townsfolk before leaving town with their money. However, cautious Marian Paroo the librarian, played by Sandra Kopitzke, sees through Hill’s plan, but can’t help but fall in love with the suave singer.

“Fallbrook personifies the term ‘small hometown,’” said Hornsveld. “It is the perfect setting for “The Music Man””

The show will also feature the talents of Cheryl Zales as Marian’s mother and a barbershop quartet led by local musician Conrad Lindberg.

“I’ve always loved this show because the music and story are so good,” said Hornsveld. “With this talented cast it is absolutely a delight to watch. It’s a great way to spend Mother’s Day!”

This performance of “The Music Man” has drawn several community members to participate in drama, including Genna Cowley, the new Miss Teen Fallbrook and Emaleigh Sinclair, the new Teen First Princess of Fallbrook.

Additionally, Amanda Heller, Fallbrook’s new librarian overseeing the transition at the new location and into the future building, is part of “The Music Man’s” cast.

“The show is about the librarian of the small town River City, so it’s fun that we have so many people from the community performing, including our own librarian,” exclaimed Director Jenn Hornsveld.

CAST has done it again with its set. River City makes for a bright and cheerful set, and all costumes are elaborately designed. It’s hard to believe that this small set belongs to a small town theater.

The songs and performances are just as delightful as the set. Britton does a great job as Harold Hill, and you can’t help the love-hate relationship you build with this character as he charms the town and begins to win the heart of Miss Marian. Other characters, including the mayor, his wife and the town’s quartet and other residents, provide plenty of laughter to scenes that may otherwise have too much singing and prancing about.

While this show is a blast for those who love music and theater, it may not be the best choice for smaller children, who may grow fidgety in their seats after sitting through song after song.

In honor of the performance, CAST has teamed up with Aquaterra, a fine dining restaurant at the Pala Mesa Resort, to bring a special dinner discount for Music Man ticket holders.

Ticket holders are offered one free appetizer with each main course ordered or one free children’s dinner with each adult entrée ordered (two entrees minimum). Additionally, after the performance on Friday and Saturday nights, Aquaterra will offer half price on its bar sushi menu (not including alcohol).

Before the show, Aquaterra will offer a special on its lunch sandwiches, build-your-own-burgers and Mahi Tacos. After the matinee on Sundays, Aquaterra will also offer an after show and early dinner special. Seating also must be before 6 p.m., but guests may arrive as early as 4 p.m.

Guests should mention the Mission Theater and “The Music Man” promotion. Tickets are not required, but a will call receipt will be required for verification.

CAST Production of “The Music Man” will be performed on Friday and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 pm. Tickets are $10 adults, $8 seniors and children younger than 12.

For dinner reservations before the show, call Aquaterra at (760) 728-5881. For more information on the CAST performance of “The Music Man,” go to http://www.castacademy.org or call (760) 451-1993.

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