Millbrook Presents: Dogfight

A cast of 21 students and a crew of 10 rehearsed diligently in preparation for this year's musical, Dogfight, since their return from winter recess, which debuted on February 22nd, and ran through February 24th.

"Based on the 1991 Warner Brothers film, Dogfight takes audiences on a romantic and heartbreaking theatrical journey that stays with you long after the performance," says Director of Theater Elaine Lifter. 

Dogfight, by Pasek and Paul (EdgesDear Evan HansenJames and the Giant PeachA Christmas Story) and Peter Duchan, has been praised by critics, nominated for multiple awards, and won the Lucille Lortel Award for Best Musical.

"One of my favorite parts of working on shows with students is the joy and curiosity they bring to the process," says Ms. Lifter. "For example, this show required students to really explore ideas that challenge us to think about treatment of women, the damaging effects of war, and to explore definitions of beauty."

To develop a greater understanding of the themes in the show, Ms. Lifter invited U.S. Marine Sergeant Zachary Cole to the Chelsea Morrison Theater in January to share his experience as a United States Marine. The cast and crew also shared a phone call with Mott, a Vietnam Veteran and grandfather to Kate Smith '21, who answered student questions and shared his experiences as well. Students also spent time studying the time period of the musical, which is set in the 1960s. 

"Musicals have a ton of moving pieces, and it is always rewarding and impressive to see everyone come together on opening night," says Ms. Lifter. "This show is beautifully written and we have a tremendous cast and crew, I could not be more proud of our students!"


Learn more about the arts at Millbrook here and view photos from Dogfight, as well as other performances in our online photo gallery




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