The Story
Anything Goes is a classic musical with music and lyrics by Cole Porter. It is set aboard the ocean liner S. S. American, where nightclub singer/evangelist Reno Sweeney is en route from New York to England. Her pal Billy Crocker has stowed away to be near his love, Hope Harcourt, but the problem is Hope is engaged to the wealthy Lord Evelyn Oakleigh.
Joining this love triangle on board the luxury liner are Public Enemy #13, Moonface Martin, and his sidekick-in-crime Erma. With the help of some elaborate disguises, tap-dancing sailors and good old-fashioned blackmail, Reno and Martin join forces to help Billy in his quest to win Hope’s heart.
Director's Notes
Thank you so much for coming to support Anything Goes at Lampeter-Strasburg High School. We are so excited to set off on this voyage of laughter, love, dance, and beautiful music with you. I'm not sure there has ever been a better time to embrace the silliness and pure joy of a Cole Porter musical. Anything Goes has been a classic since it set sail with Ethel Merman in 1935.
It's been adapted many times. However, we have chosen to go back to the beginning and adapt the original script and score. This cast, pit, and crew have worked so hard and embraced the oversized set, the stylized comedy, and the nonstop musical numbers that require a boatload of dancing. We are so grateful you've chosen to support their hard work and reward it with your laughter and applause. Thank you again. Enjoy the journey!
Kevin Ditzler