Gateway Musical Alumni Showcase sets stage for a renewed tradition

When producer Mary Chase took over the Gateway’s musical during the 2022-23 school year, she knew she wanted to start up an old tradition – the high school’s Alumni Showcase.

“The last one was held in 2018, and I think they used to have them more frequently in the past,” Chase said. “My goal is, at a minimum, every other year. But possibly every year if there’s interest.”

The Gateway Musical Alumni Showcase was held on Aug. 31 at the high school’s Robert A. Read Performing Arts Center. With a few hundred people in attendance, the evening was deemed a success.

Seventeen musical alumni took to the stage to sing, dance and show the audience their extensive talents. Alumni dancers tapped to a “42nd Street” number, which was choreographed by 1994 graduate Heather Bungard.

Current musical students showcased their talents as well, and the night concluded with a performance of “For Good” from the musical “Wicked.”

“I’m very proud of the way the alumni, current students and theater guild parents worked together to bring this evening to fruition,” Chase said. “It was a collaborative effort that really showcased the talent of Gateway’s past and present students. I look forward to engaging more alumni in future events.”

All proceeds from the showcase will benefit the high school’s musical programs. The spring musical, “Once Upon a Mattress,” will be held from April 2 to 5. The April 2 event is slated to be the second annual senior citizen show, where seniors ages 65 or older are admitted for free.