“Annie” at GBN featuring Benji as Sandy

In 1959, my family moved to suburban Northbrook. It was my senior year and quite uncomfortable. A new school and a new home. A town where I knew absolutely no one and how would I be a part of the theater program. I had not “paid my dues”! Yes, there is a system in High School. As a freshman, smaller roles, or ensemble. A sophomore gets a little larger role and Juniors get a speaking role or a role that has a song. The seniors get the meat, but not the “new guy” as the director never worked with them.

Lucky for me, Ralph Lane could see who I was and my background. I was used in the fall play ( three one act) and when it came to the big musical, I was given the role of Applegate ( the Devil) in “Damn Yankees”. I shared the honor with Frank Galati ( a junior) doing two of the three performances. Frank went on to be one of the most prolific playwrights and directors in America. That was 1960 ( Glenbrook was 7 years old). Now,63 years later, for the fall production of “Annie”, our “grand-doggy”, Benji is on the stage at GBN, in the role of Sandy. My granddaughter is handling most of the backstage work as her best friend is playing Annie, but I worked the dress rehearsal and will be doing the Saturday afternoon performance. I must tell you, Benji is a natural. He knew where to go and when, leading me to the right place so he could do the curtain call and take his bows.

I am not sure how he will handle the final performance on Saturday night. No more practices. No more rehearsals! No more playing with the other cast members. Oh well, maybe another role will come his way.