Harrison High School Students Request the Pleasure of Your Company at their performance of Dr. Edwina Jr.

Harrison High School Theatre is redefining etiquette lessons for the swingset set through its production of “Dear Edwina JR.,” featuring music by Zina Goldrich and a book and lyrics by Marcy Heisler. The musical follows the adventures of a 13-year-old advice columnist and problem-solver named Edwina, who dishes out advice and wisdom with the help of her friends and a little song and dance.

Need to know how to properly set a table? How should one deal with a “Frankenguest?” We would like to present “advice-giver extraordinaire” Edwina Spoonapple, played by Sarah Kokko, HHS senior. Edwina addresses the world’s etiquette challenges in number after hysterical musical number. The rest of the cast play her neighborhood friends, all part of the “Dear Edwina” show, including lovelorn Scott (Jacob Dicks), ballerina Kelli (Hannah Holmes), cheerleader Becky (Taylor Smith), Bobbie and Billie (Carley Young and Mackenzie Gallaty), and more. One cast member, Kyara Head, also belongs to the International Thespian Society, an honorary society honoring student achievement in the arts. Directing “Dear Edwina JR.” is Christina Travis, with musical direction by Eric Vinciguerra.

This heartwarming show features witty musical lessons exploring courtesy and politeness that will have audience members laughing out loud. At the heart of all this fun is a wonderful message about the importance of treating one another well and honoring the voice of individuality in each of us.

Edwina Spoonapple would do just about anything to be a part of the Kalamazoo Advice-A-Palooza Festival. While her siblings all have proof “up on the fridge” of their accomplishments, poor Edwina has nothing. When a talent scout from the festival visits her hometown of Paw Paw, Michigan, she trots out her musical advice-giving show, live from the family garage in hopes of finding her place in the spotlight.

Harrison High School will present “Dear Edwina JR.” at 7 p.m.  March 12, 13 and 14 in the Harrison High School auditorium, 700 S. Fifth St. in Harrison. Tickets are available at the door and cost $5 for adults, $4 for students and $3 for children 7 and younger.

  “Dear Edwina JR.” is presented through special arrangement with and all authorized materials are supplied by Music Theatre International 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY, 212-541-4684,