The year’s sensational cast of the Magnolia High School musical “Bye Bye Birdie” has been working hard to prepare for the production Dec. 12-13 at 7:30 p.m. each day.

Although the cast is young, there are six seniors returning, along with four other upper-classmen.

Eric Haught, a senior, who plays the role of Albert Petersen, is very active in the MHS Marching, Concert Bands, and Jazz Bands and the Percussion Ensemble. He also is a member of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and has participated in the Quiz Bowl. He plans to attend West Virginia University to study political science.

Playing the role of Rose Alvarez will be senior Rachel Hoffman, who is president of her class and also a member of the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta. In addition, she plays in the concert and marching bands, where she is field commander. She also participates in debate and softball. Hoffman plans to attend WVU to major in fashion marketing and merchandising.

A third senior, Lakyn Arrick, is cast as Mrs. Mae Petersen in the musical. She is a member of the marching and concert bands and is co-captain of the flag corps. She is on student council, serves as an FFA officer and on the State Board of Thespians, as well as president of her theater troupe.

She also participates in International Thespians, debate, and Torchbearers. She will study oral communications, speech/theater education, at Fairmont State University.

Senior Courtney Jones, who plays Ursula Merckle, is active in concert and marching bands and is on the snare line. She also is involved in the percussion ensemble, jazz band, debate, student council, and peer tutoring.

She plans to attend WVU to study for a career as a forensic pathologist.

Also returning to the stage this is senior Emily Irizarry, who will portray Mrs. Dori MacAfee. She is active in theater and soccer and will attend Bethany College to major in education and minor in music.

In addition, senior Arthur Withrow will play the role of Charles Maude and the Mayor. He is active in band, theater, and choir and will study secondary education, although he is undecided about a college.

Tickets are available at the door and may be purchased in advance by calling Mary Bissett at 455-5871.