Churchill Students Sing, Dance Through The Generations in BLAST

is back! 's magnificent non-stop song and dance show comes alive this weekend in the Bish Auditorium at Churchill High School as the cast dances through the generations.

Directed by Carlos Barillo, this show’s theme is the societal revolution as reflected by each generation’s music. The show will present songs and dances from the civil rights movement and anti-war generation to the women’s rights and gay rights movements as well as music of the modern generation. 

The program is performed and produced by more than 200 talented and dedicated Churchill student singers, dancers, musicians and technicians. Shows will be on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Additional shows will be on April 8 and 9, both at 7:30 p.m.

Senior Ryan Kanfer has performed in BLAST all four years of high school and said that this year’s show is worth seeing because it is different than past shows.

“It’s a special year because of Mr. Barillo’s vision. He has wanted to do a show with the theme of social change for a long while,” Kanfer said. “Both young and old will enjoy this show which has great music, choreography and technology like we have never seen before in BLAST.”

This year’s performance will include innovative student-produced videos as well an original video produced by Barillo and Scott Selman, the Technical Director. 

“These videos are very unique and really add to the performance,” Kanfer said.

Songs from BLAST 2011 REVOLUTION include music that spans many eras. The audience will recognize (and most likely sing along) to well-known tunes by The Beatles, Helen Reddy, Carly Simon, Madonna, Bon Jovi, Fats Domino, Bill Haley and the Comets, Sam Cooke and Madonna. More modern songs by Jennifer Hudson, Lady Antebellum, Leona Lewis and No Doubt are included in the show to showcase where music is today.

Some of the students had never heard the older tunes before and turned to technology to become more familiar with them.

“[We] watched a lot of Youtube videos of the ‘oldies but goodies’ performers,” said Kanfer, who will be performing “Ain’t That a Shame,” by the late Fats Domino.

The show’s behind-the-scenes staff helps keep things running smoothly. The 40-person tech and stage crew help solve problems and make quick decisions. The live band made up of Churchill students and directed by Chuck Underwood keep the show moving with their talent and abilities.

“These movements really shaped who we are today,” said Stage Manager Meredith Yinger. “The show is very deep and thought out.”

Tickets for BLAST can be purchased online or at the Bish Auditorium lobby box office at Churchill High School. Reserved tickets are $20; reserved balcony and side seats, and open seating are $14.  All matinee tickets are $14.