Time to Celebrate Tradition
In March 2020, CAHS celebrated 50 years of Broadway excellence in Connellsville. The event was held on a gorgeous Saturday afternoon and we had over 100 alumni, near and far, attend to celebrate.
What Occurred
The event kicked off with a video by our local cable company, Armstrong, that gave a brief history of the program and the impact it has in the lives of our students. Following the video, we took the time to remember our late director, Henry Molinaro, who directed the musicals from 2006 until his retirement in 2014. His widower, Cindy, gave a brief speech and received a tribute award to recognize Henry’s achievements in the musical program.
Musical alumnus, Barry Craig, presented our three directors Merle Stutzman, Henry Molinaro (Cindy), and Michelle Harbaugh with a proclamation from PA Senator Pat Stefano commemorating the 50th anniversary of the program. Another film was later shown to highlight past and long-time members of the production staff.
After the tributes, the show began with performers from the last 50 years. It was nice to see every decade represented. Some of the notable performers included an “OG” cast member, Dave Petrone, who sang “What a Beautiful Morning” from Oklahoma, Jamie Tressler who sang “You Can’t Get a Guy with a Gun” from Annie Get Your Gun, a quartet of sisters each. performed a song in which they were the lead spanning over three decades, and a highlight was the special video sent in by current Broadway actor and musical alumnus Howie Michael Smith.
It was a great time had by all filled with lots of reminiscing. This was a wonderful event that could’ve lasted all night long. This event embraced tradition, excellence, and to think it all started on a high school stage in a small town in Southwestern PA! Unfortunately due to time, we had a big announcement but had to wait to reveal it prior to the start of the performance that evening. To celebrate the man who brought Broadway to Connellsville in 1970, a foundation was established in his honor. This foundation awards annually a scholarship to a senior in the musical program. In addition, it serves as a financial supplement to help offset costs of the musical program.
The Details
Guests enjoyed a sit down meal and appetizers from Sparks Catering The event was held at New Haven Hose Firehall in Connellsville, PA. Our local cable company Armstrong filmed the event and streamed live on Facebook.
