February 28, 2019: A talented cast of student performers from Walsh Intermediate School (WIS) is preparing to tell a timely story of home, identity, and tolerance in the musical Honk! Rehearsals have been underway since early January for the performances, which will take place during the first weekend of April.

Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen's The Ugly Duckling, Honk! tells the story of Ugly, a baby swan who is mistaken as an "ugly" duckling when he falls into the wrong nest.  Rejected by everyone because of his differences, Ugly sets out on a journey to find his family. 

The British songwriting duo of George Stiles (music) and Anthony Drewe (book and lyrics) developed the musical, which had successful runs both on Broadway and in the West End of London.  Winner of several awards, Honk! has been seen by more than 6 million people all over the world in over 8,000 productions in more than 20 languages.

More than 60 WIS students are involved in the production of this year's show.  Students between the ages of 10 and 14 make up the cast, stage crew, and technical crew.

"The production is really coming together, thanks to the hard work and dedication of our students and parents," said WIS science teacher Jeffrey Rizzo, who is in his seventh year as Director of the WIS musical. "We are so proud of the work that our school community has put into Honk! We look forward to sharing this production with our families, friends, and the Branford community – we know they are going to love it!"　　

WIS cast members will tour Branford's elementary schools in March to perform a sampling of songs, giving the town's youngest students a sneak preview of the show.

Joining Rizzo in guiding the students are Music Director and Pit Orchestra Conductor Gavin Hartney, Choreographer Paola Rarick, and　Rehearsal Accompanist Cathyann Roding.  Vladimir Shpitalnik is the Set Designer, working with committee chair Pete Bocciarelli.  Costumes are designed by Allison Nerone with committee co-chair Lauren Lenox, and Tracy Izzo is the show's Producer.

There will be three performances of Honk! -- Fri. April 5 at 7:30 p.m. and Sat. April 6 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Reserved seating is available on the auditorium floor; general admission seating is available in the lecture hall. All tickets are $10 and can be purchased by calling (203) 418-PLAY (7529).