Conservatory Theatre Students Present World Premiere of "21" Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Conservatory Theatre Company presented "21," Oct. 16-26 at the Pittsburgh Playhouse. View more photos.

For an actor, finding out that you are cast in a show is exciting. For Point Park students, learning they were cast in the world premiere of the Conservatory Theatre Company's production of the musical, "21," was a dream come true. "21" debuted Oct. 16-26 at the Pittsburgh Playhouse.

"Opening a world premiere is insane," said junior acting major major Zach Petrovich. "To know that you are the first actor to get your hands on a character and bring him to life on the stage is every actor's dream."

Written by Pittsburgh native Alki Steriopoulos, "21" tells the compelling story of the unparalleled life and death of baseball legend Roberto Clemente, as well as the three women who were instrumental in making him the man he was - his mother, his wife and his doting sister.

Sophomore musical theatre major Bebe Tabickman was excited to help award-winning director Richard Sabellico's vision come to life on stage.

"We were the original cast," exclaimed Tabickman. "We had so much freedom in creating this show together as an ensemble and had a say in what we thought our characters should do. I am so happy that I had this learning opportunity and amazing experience."

Senior musical theatre major Melessie Clark, who played Clemente's mother, said the training she's received at Point Park not only prepared her to tackle the role of Clemente's mother, but is also helping her to be a professional actress.

"In class, we are not only given the technique required to execute specific roles, but we also discuss the professionalism needed to be successful with any production," Clark said. "At Point Park, we get to train with professors that are still working in the industry."

Petrovich's advice to any current or prospective students is simple: "Don't wait, don't hesitate and do what you came to do."

Text by Annie Tomak, a sophomore public relations and advertising student

Back

More About: Conservatory of Performing Arts, acting, Conservatory Theatre Company, Pittsburgh Playhouse, musical theatre