by Linda Conte in Arts and Culture, Schools and Youth
Posted on August 13, 2009 at 5:01 pm
Last Modified on August 13, 2009 at 10:39 pm
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Last night’s performance by Project Star at the Somerville High auditorium was a lot of fun. Jimmy DelPonte’s original musical showed his talent as a storyteller, humorist, and song writer. He can be forgiven as director for giving the leading role to his son Joey who has theatrical presence and a really good voice. Many of the kids in the production (mostly middle school and a few High Schoolers) showed talent. You can hear Jimmy’s voice in every bit of dialogue in the play; it sounds a lot like his Somerville News column, loving all things Old Somerville. They asked everybody at the beginning of the show, “Who here is from Somerville?” and I found myself raising my hand and then feeling a little embarrassed. I wasn’t born here, but have lived here for about 25 years. I appreciate hearing about what people love to remember about their childhoods in Somerville. It helps me feel more connected here.
When I look around, I see nothing but improvements since we bought our house near Davis Square, but I know from a Somerville Conversations group I joined a couple of years ago that folks don’t find all things changed for the better. Some of the character of the city has changed and it makes people sad to see the home they’ve known tweaked out of familiarity by outsiders. Even though Jimmy’s musical included songs about all the great restaurants now in Somerville, it also included an amusing song and dance number by the ever-vigilant parking cops.
A few more notes about last night before I forget: Apparently they are trying to fund this tradition (not so well advertised if you ask me) of Project Star. They sold a lot of raffle tickets for baskets the kids had made and tons of good stuff from local vendors. The drawing went on forever but it was fun. With all the winners I couldn’t believe I didn’t at least get a loaf of Pig Fly bread. The night was also a love-fest for Mayor Gene Brune. He was trotted up on stage to show off his tan and lauded for bringing in the red line and honored with his own song and dance number! The auditorium was pretty packed, but none of my fellow transplant friends were there. Maybe they’re on the Cape.
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thank you
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This is such a nice article! I’m happy you enjoyed the show. I played Rita, and it made my summer worthwhile!
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Adriana, you did an excellent job as Rita! Your stage career is secured!
I just learned that Joey DelPonte was in two other plays this summer as well! That kid is definitely going places! Lots of talent! His little brother Jimmy seems to love the stage as well. He played a comical character that kept the laughs coming.
I should add that dad Jimmy DelPonte wrote the play in part to avoid royalty charges on another play. He’s got more musical and comedic talent in his pinky than most people can claim. I didn’t see SCAT filming at the play, which seems a shame. I think Jimmy’s score should be reprised somehow and I hope that Project STAR is well funded for years to come. Somerville will spawn many artists!
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Thanks Linda !!! Somerville Cable recorded it. And there is a rumor going around that the mayor has requested an encore performance. Thanks for the kind words !! Your friend and neighbor, Jimmy
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Thanks for writing this review; sorry that I had to miss the performance, but hoping that there is an encore.
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