On March 1st, the Situation Project, in collaboration with the creators of Some Like It Hot, welcomed over 380 students and their teachers from New York City public schools to a matinee performance of the Broadway show. This event marked the first time many of the students had ever seen a Broadway production or witnessed a live performance. The students represented three partner schools of the Situation Project: MS 343 X - Academy of Applied Mathematics and Technology, MS 223 X - The Laboratory School of Finance & Technology, and MS 278 M - The Paula Hedbavny School.
Neil Meron, the co-lead producer of Some Like It Hot, expressed the significance of introducing a new generation to the joy of live theater. In a statement to Broadway World, he reflected, "It is so important to share the joy of live theatre with a new generation, and we're so glad that Some Like It Hot could be the first exposure to the art form for so many. As embodied with our show, theatre is a collaborative effort and belongs to everyone, and it's important to make sure we're inviting everyone in."
One student from MS 223 shared their anticipation before the show with Broadway World, saying, "I'm not really sure what to expect, I've never been to a play before." Following the performance, the students couldn't contain their excitement, exclaiming, "This is SO fun; and it doesn't feel real, it feels like we're watching TV!" Another student remarked, "I loved the dancing, those actors must practice a lot!" Just before the show began, a student expressed their hope to see people of diverse backgrounds on stage. Their delight was evident when Adrianna Hicks made her first appearance as Sugar, prompting the student to exclaim, "that's the lead, she looks just like me!"
Some Like It Hot, a musical comedy featuring music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, book by Matthew López and Amber Ruffin, and direction and choreography by Casey Nicholaw, is currently running at The Shubert Theatre.
The Situation Project is a nonprofit organization, registered as a 501c(3), established by the Situation Group. Its mission is to connect students from New York City public schools with local theatrical, artistic, and cultural experiences.
