Rockland Country Day School Recalls Good Old Days of Radio High School

Four out of Four Stars!!!!

BY GEORGE J. DACRE

As a radio talk show host veteran, I was just amazed at how these kids put on “1940s Radio Hour,” a play based on The Mutual Manhattan Variety Cavalcade during the World War II era. I thought I was back in the 40s and settled in for an evening of memories. In December of 1941, I was only 17, but these kids didn’t know that.

The cast opened with Glenn Miller’s “Kalamazoo,” with announcer Omar Yasbek, the chorus and a 10-piece swinging band. Sierra Kupris sang “Daddy,” and teamed up with Wyatt Button for “How About You.” Will Youman sang “Blue Moon,” while Austin Zaff came on with “Our Love is Here to Stay.”

I enjoyed the great Sinatra imitation during “I’ll Never Smile Again.” Elin Fleming shined on stage with her clarinet doing “It Don’t Mean a Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing.” Aisling Crispi brings down the house with “That Old Black Magic” and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” Sitting in my chair, I knew I was back in the 40s, getting ready for the draft.

Isabella Englert and the guys of the cast do “Blue In The Night” and Isabella, Sergei Bluman and Sienna Kupris do the Andrew Sisters’ “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy.” Sergei, Will Youman, and chorus glow on stage while singing “Jingle Bells.” The entire cast chimes in with “Ain’t She Sweet.” They wind it all up with “Strike Up The Band” and “I’ll Be Seeing You.”

The talented cast was directed by Marsha Korb Predovic, who was assisted by Kris Kim, and included musical director Jeff Suzda. The play with its wartime references and dedications made it all come back. Way to go Rockland Country Day School.

I rate “1940s Radio Hour” Four out of Four Stars!!!! Thanks for the memories.