The Sleep Tite Pajama Factory comes to the stage in The Pajama Game with New Philadelphia High School performers
By Jennifer Kneuss
April 16, 2010
582
When the Sleep Tite Pajama Factorys feisty union workers take a stand for higher wages for the unending numbers of pajamas they crank out, management proves to be just as stubborn, resulting in a fast-moving and entertaining spoof in a play involving comedy, drama, romance, and misconceptions.
The Pajama Game comes to the New Philadelphia High School stage April 16-17, as the theater groups spring musical with well-known songs such as Steam Heat, Hernandos Hideaway, and Hey There. The show, directed by veteran area director Lee Elliott, features a large cast as well as a live orchestra accompaniment.
The Pajama Game originally opened on Broadway in May of 1954, and played for 1,063 performances. Interestingly enough, it was The Pajama Game that started the career of Shirley MacLaine. A director/producer for Paramount Pictures spotted her in the role and gave her a contract. The show, which won numerous awards, was made into a motion picture in 1957, and was revived on Broadway in 1973 and 2006.
The talents of the New Philadelphia High School theater students will once again bring The Pajama Game to life Friday, April 16, and Saturday, April 17, with performances beginning in the Welty Middle School Auditorium each evening at 7 p.m. There will also be a raffle of genuine, hand-sewn pajamas. Tickets are available at the door, and are $8 for adults, $5 for children under 10 and senior citizens.
