Anything Goes marks my second collaboration with Caught in the Act Productions at Mountain View High School, and it has been a collaboration of the very best kind. I have tremendous respect for the discipline it takes to channel creativity into a finished product. The expertise and dedication of the cast, crew, and production staff have made the experience an absolute delight. Every detail -- costumes, lighting, set, props, movement, music -- was dissected and discussed. The creative team, both onstage and off, have been hard-working, smart, generous, and a pleasure to spend time with. And we have spent lots of time together! These people are the TOP.
When Anything Goes set sail in 1934, the American musical was still finding its sea legs, with plush revues and lightweight plots that had little dramatic connection to their songs. Cole Porter's Anything Goes found inspiration in celebrities and criminals, referenced Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and even Roosevelts, and satirized the rich and glamorous. As the epitome of sophisticated, escapist entertainment, it has been called "the definitive 1930s musical comedy."
From the beginning of the rehearsal process, we've worked to honor this definitive musical comedy with its grand story and luscious score, well-crafted by a true showman. Cole Porter knew how to entertain. His characters were real people. Their situations may be far-fetched and silly, but it's serious silliness! The message of Anything Goes is one that resonates with young and old alike. It's endlessly optimistic and positive. There is a sense of release, relief and optimism in looking ahead. In a world that is topsy-turvy, anything is possible, anything can happen. Audiences nearly a century ago were captivated and mesmerized by this exquisite show. Get ready to "get a kick" and fall in love with Anything Goes!
