(Left to right) Xandra Jobe looks on while Max Cameron and Sydney Morrisson warble a ditty from "Hot Mikado," opening Friday, Feb. 29, at Seaside High School.

SEASIDE – East meets West head-on in the 1940s-style updating of a perennial Gilbert and Sullivan favorite when Seaside High School Drama presents the musical comedy, “Hot Mikado.” With the music transmuted into blues, Cab Calloway swing, hot gospel, scorching torch songs and “Three Little Maids” turned into an Andrew Sisters’ show-stopper, this zoot-suited, tap-dancing show should be the ideal evening out for the whole family.

The plot of “Hot Mikado” does not stray far from the Gilbert and Sullivan original, and director Lenore Morrisson reports that the students are having a terrific time with the challenging score and over-the-top acting. It is a topsy-turvy musical typical of the Gilbert and Sullivan style, a love story with many complications, potential beheadings and a double wedding. Although set in Japan, the costumes reflect the style of the American fashion scene of the 1940s. There are nearly 20 students involved in the production, some new to the stage, some making their last appearance in a SHS musical production, and including members of PULSE, the SHS dance team, filling out the dance scenes.

Although the music has been changed, the beloved songs of the original are still recognizable in their new form. Book and lyrics are adapted by David H. Bell. Music is adapted and arranged by Rob Bowman, based on “The Mikado,” by W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan. The program is produced in cooperation with Music Theatre International.

Phil White fills the role of music director. David Carlson accompanies on piano with Bill Siewert on bass, Bill Eldridge on percussion and Jeff Blanche on reeds and saxophone. Emily Madsen, PULSE dance coach, lends her talents to some of the choreography. Returning are Jane Cartwright, producer, Kirsten Whitlock, costumer, and Craig Shepherd, set designer.

Showtime is 7 p.m. Feb. 29, March 1, 6, 7 and 8, in the high school cafetorium. Tickets will be available at the high school in advance or at the door. Prices are $7 for adults, $5 for seniors and students and $3 for students with an ASB card. For more information, call Morrison at (503) 738-4486. Seaside High School is located at 1901 Holladay Drive.

“Hot Mikado” cast members are (left to right, front to back): Seated – Max Cameron, Sydney Morrisson, Jennifer Bletscher, Audriana Pease; kneeling – Xandra Jobe; standing, middle row – Paloma Newcombe, Brittany Newton, Megan Bowles; standing, back row – Charlotte Basch, Megan Walsh, Amanda Cochran, Peter Shepherd, Elrycc Berkman, Sarah Burgess, Jackie Cartwright, Courtney Standring. Not shown: Mac Clark and Don Mespelt. Submitted photo taken by Amy Harris