TORRINGTON – Torrington Middle School students took the stage Thursday evening, bringing energy and excitement to their production of Phantom of the Soap Opera. 

This dramatic musical, directed by music teacher Katelyn Fody, follows a mysterious Phantom lurking in a TV studio who becomes obsessively enamored with a soap opera star.

The talented cast brought the story to life with standout performances. Cara Hibben dazzled as the glamorous leading lady, Regina, while Deklin Harrison delivered a compelling performance as the villainous actor Teddy Burnett. Jemma Heron portrayed the washed-up actress Daphne Davis with humor and charm, while Payton Matthews entertained as the scatterbrained Blythe Evans. Daniel Bennett took on the role of jock-turned-actor Quentin Harris and Ashlynn Merrow brought depth to the seasoned performer Nora Caine.

Behind the scenes of the fictional TV studio, Luke Hanson commanded the stage as the passionate yet perfectionist producer Addison Meriwether. Emmelin Matlock played the frazzled but dedicated writer Emily Parrish, while Averay Birkley brought laughs as the absentminded secretary Lily Ponds. Alexis Hansen portrayed the calm and collected producer Theodora Osborn, with Liam Caldwell adding a touch of old-school charm as the chivalrous Harlan Gaspar. The enigmatic Phantom himself was played by Jacob Cronk, while Claire Bloemker embodied the frustrated costume designer Millicent Crump. Mattea Walker stepped into the role of an ambitious young reporter eager for a scoop and James Washburn played the gruff yet brilliant detective Digby Wright. Rounding out the cast, Eva Bustamante brought warmth to the role of a seasoned yet compassionate police officer.

In addition to the principal cast, a dedicated ensemble of stagehands and a lively chorus line added depth and energy to the production. The group performed eight different musical numbers, many featuring the principal actors in solos. The students’ commitment, professionalism and enthusiasm made Phantom of the Soap Opera a fun and engaging experience for all who attended.