Mary Queen of Apostles' students, crew prepare 'Wonktoberfest' to benefit musical

Bailey Linza likened high school musical theater to finding the golden ticket.

She and two classmates at St. Joseph High School in Harrison reaped such joy from their production experiences that they have offered to head up a fall show for students at Mary Queen of Apostles School in New Kensington, where they have been without school shows since the pandemic.

“We got so many benefits out of our musicals, and we just want to give this to them,” said Linza, 16, a junior.

She is working with classmates Kylie Krzewinski and Donovan Polito, both also 16, to direct “Willy Wonka Jr.” The musical will run Nov. 11 to 13 at Burrell Middle School.

Krzewinski of New Kensington said theater teaches young kids to have confidence in their abilities, whether it’s on stage or beyond.

“We’re learning to let them put their own spin on things and make it their own show,” she said. “It’s not all about just doing what you’re told, but being yourself and feeling you are welcome to do so.”

As a run-up to the debut, 41 actors and stage crew will host a fundraiser, “Wonktoberfest,” from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Laube Hall in Freeport.

A luncheon of brats and sauerkraut, soft pretzels and ham barbecue will give the Oompa Loompas a chance to perform before an audience. The cast will perform at least two numbers: “Candyland” and “Golden Age of Chocolate.”

A 50-50 and basket raffles will be offered. There also will be a special performance by a Bavarian dance group, the Alpen Schuhplattlers.

Tickets cost $10 and are available online at mqaschool.org.

Polito of Arnold said teaching is difficult but worthwhile.

The trio of high schoolers attends rehearsal from 3 to 6 p.m. every day after class, all while juggling homework and activities.

“It’s good discipline for them and us as well,” he said. “This is good for everyone. It builds us all.”