Authored by Mitchell Vantrease in YourWestValley.com.
Jamie Grossman steps into the spotlight as a sophisticated, modern 1920s flapper in the musical "Thoroughly Modern Millie."
The musical, which opened at Spotlight Youth Theatre Friday, is her first starring role after playing a string of supporting characters with the Glendale youth troupe.
"This is a dream role for me, and I’m happy to have a wonderful opportunity like this," said Grossman, who’s performed in "Little Women" and "Bye Bye Birdie."
Grossman, 16, a Glendale resident, said she studied the original Broadway cast recording and the 1964 film with Julie Andrews and Mary Tyler Moore to prepare for the show. The Ironwood High School sophomore also took some basic dance classes, so she could pick up the choreography quickly during rehearsals.
"I’ve never had a part like this where I’m acting, singing and doing some really heavy dancing," she said. "This really stretches me to my limits."
"Thoroughly Modern Millie" tells the story of a small-town girl, Millie Dillmount, who travels to New York City in 1922 to marry for money instead of love. She soon begins to fancy the flapper lifestyle, but problems arise when she checks into a hotel owned by the leader of a white slavery ring in China. She falls in love with a man she thinks is poor.
This stage adaptation of the movie ran on Broadway for two years and won the 2002 Tony Award for Best Musical.
Tyler Jasper, 17, who plays Millie’s love interest, Jimmy, said he’s excited about the show, especially the era.
"The 1920s were really a cool time, where there was a strong uprising of jazz music and socializing happening all at the same time," said Jasper, a junior at Ironwood.
Kenny Grossman, the show’s director and Spotlight‘s artistic director, said 25 young actors are in the production.
"It wasn’t easy to stage, but I really have a group of extremely talented kids who are able to pull this musical off," Kenny Grossman said.
He attributes part of the equation to his leads, Jasper and Jamie, his daughter.
"Sometimes directors get flack for casting their children in the leads, but it was evident in the auditions that she was Millie," he said.
In addition, Millie and Jimmy’s love story is a key component to the show.
"Tyler and Jamie’s chemistry is undeniable, and people will see it," Kenny Grossman said.
More than anything, Grossman said audiences will have fun, because "it’s a genuine show with lovable characters."
"It’ll definitely put a smile on your face," he said.
Mitchell Vantrease may be reached at 623-876-2526 or mvantrease@yourwestvalley.com.
