Press Release

'Angels in the Wings' Feature Modern Musical, "Scrooge, The Musical," written by Local Composer

During the first weekend in December, the local community theater group, Angels in the Wings will be presenting "Scrooge, The Musical." What makes this year's production so unique is the fact that it was written by a local composer -David H. Smith Jr.. Angels in the Wings hopes that premiering the work of a local composer will be just one of the factors that draw a large crowd to West High this year.
David was born in Aurora, Colorado, however most of his youth was spent composing songs at his home in the town of Chemung, NY. After attending high school in Waverly, NY. He began a four-year tour with the Army Band of Ft. Knox K.Y. as a vocal soloist and Tuba player. Afterwards, he received his B.S. in Music Education from SUNY Potsdam and his Masters Degree in music education from Ithaca College. He presently teaches vocal/general music at Northside Blodgett Middle School, Corning, N.Y. There, he directs the seventh chorus, eighth grade chorus, Boy's Ensemble and Women's Chorale. Prior to his tenure at Corning, he directed the high school and middle school choirs in the Chatham Central School District. In addition to his musical contributions to the local school district, he is the pianist at the Twin Tiers Christian Church in Gangs Mills, and the conductor of the Valley Chorus in Waverly NY. His many compositions include pieces for brass quintet, sacred anthems, children's songs, choral works, a requiem, instrumental/vocal solos, and military marches.
Although December's performance will be the "theatrical" premiere of the work, the music was first performed in Athens, PA by The Valley Chorus in an oratorio-type format. Since that performance last year, Smith has added two more songs and orchestra parts in an attempt to mold the composition for better use in the theater. As a result of these additions, there is a type of music to fit every musical taste: classical, blues, country, soul, and swing. Some of the songs were written with specific local talent in mind. "Christmas Time's the Only Time, was inspired by a popular local band," Smith said. "I went to hear the Sam Pallet Band, and as I sat there watching Mike Giannone, I knew he would make a great Mr. Fezziwig. All I needed was the right song so I wrote one with Mike's unique style in mind." "Needless to say I was thrilled when Giannone agreed to play the role of Fezziwig," Smith added.
When asked about how long it took him to write the musical, Smith responded, "Most of the libretto (lyrics) were written in about two weeks while I was on vacation in Wilmington, NC., and the musical score was written during July and August of 2000." "Technically, this is an operetta because all the words are sung," Smith said, "but operettas are thought by some to be a bit too stuffy, so we like to think of our production as a modern musical." The cast rehearses at Northside Blodgett Middle School and will premiere the staged production at Corning West High auditorium. "West High is the perfect place for the premiere," Smith said.
"All those involved have been very helpful and encouraging," he added. "Everyone is being very generous with their time." Smith explained that no participant is paid and proceeds will benefit Habitat for Humanity and the local food pantries. "The whole concept of giving is something we can clearly find in the Dickens classic," he said. Smith emphasized the even though Scrooge, The Musical stays in line with the Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol, people can expect many non-traditional surprises. Performances will be at West High on November 30th 8:00 p.m., and December 1st and 2nd at 2:00 p.m.
About the Musical
True to the Dicken's story- with the bonus of Smith's trademark wit and humor - the musical features solo portions for the musical characters of the drama backed by catchy choral numbers that are sure to become audience favorites. Smith quotes a few traditional carols but twists the harmonic content to infer ghostly overtones that foreshadow the coming of the next spirit.
What makes this musical different from others is that every lyric is sung. This operetta-style musical is approximately one hour and forty-five minutes in length and is performed in two acts. The first act is longer than the second act and there is no entracte. On the other hand, there is an overture that lasts about ten minutes. This overture is basically a medley of songs found throughout the first half. Some classical, rock, blues, folk, soul, and swing music are found in this unique musical. Orchestration includes the following instruments: flute, clarinet, sax, trumpet, trombone, piano, violin, viola, cello, bass, guitar, drums, and timpani.
This original musical work is affordable as well. Low royalty costs have been kept to a minimum in hopes of increasing the number of debut performances. In Corning, NY, the response has been overwhelming. Newspaper coverage has been very positive and letters to the editor have been very flattering. The following is a glowing review found in a letter to the editor of the Corning Leader. Corning had recently banned religious content in its annual event, "Sparkle of Christmas." The local newspaper received hundreds of letters complaining about this new policy. The musical ending to "Scrooge, The Musical," retains the true meaning of Christmas, and the women writing this letter was apparently very pleased with the ending:: "The spirit I lost on Saturday night was more than replaced by Sunday's "Scrooge, The Musical" presented before an overflow crowd. To know all this excellence was written, directed and performed by local people was fantastic. All the singers and dancers were of professional standing. The orchestra, too, was exceptional, especially the pianist. It takes a lot of hard work to make something so difficult sound so easy. If you do it again, my granddaughters and I will certainly be there."
Scrooge, The Musical is a must-see show that the entire family will enjoy. It will put a warmth in your heart that will stay with you throughout the holiday season. Dickens would be proud.