5 Reasons Why East Ridge High School’s ‘Crazy For You’ Was The Must-See Musical Of 2025
The East Ridge High School (ERHS) Theatre Department in Clermont, Florida, once again proved its elite status in student performing arts with its spectacular Spring 2025 production of the classic George and Ira Gershwin musical, Crazy for You. This high-energy, tap-dancing romantic comedy captivated audiences with its dazzling choreography, timeless score, and the sheer talent of the student performers. As of today, December 25, 2025, the buzz surrounding the April performances remains a high point for the school's theatrical season, cementing the show's legacy as a benchmark for excellence in high school musical theater.
The production, which ran for a limited engagement, was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the "Knights" theater company, from the actors on stage to the students designing and building the elaborate scenery and costumes from scratch. This deep dive explores the key elements that made the ERHS take on this beloved Broadway show an unforgettable experience for the Central Florida community.
Production Profile: East Ridge High School's 'Crazy for You' (Spring 2025)
The musical Crazy for You is a quintessential American show, often referred to as "The New Gershwin Musical," as it features a book by Ken Ludwig and a score compiled from the vast catalog of George and Ira Gershwin, including hits originally written for other shows. The story is a charming romantic comedy that follows Bobby Child, a wealthy New York playboy whose true passion is show business. He is sent to the small, desolate town of Deadrock, Nevada, to foreclose on a dilapidated theater, only to fall instantly in love with the theater owner's daughter, Polly Baker.
- High School: East Ridge High School (ERHS)
- Location: Clermont, Florida
- Production Season: Spring 2025
- Show Dates: The run included performances on April 11 and April 12, 2025.
- Musical Score: George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin
- Book By: Ken Ludwig
- Key Songs Featured: "I Got Rhythm," "Someone to Watch Over Me," "Embraceable You," "Naughty Baby," and "They Can't Take That Away from Me."
- Lead Actor - Bobby Child: William Ross Mrozek, a notable company member of the ERHS Theatre Department.
- Genre: Romantic Comedy, Musical Comedy, Tap Dance Extravaganza
- Setting: New York City and Deadrock, Nevada
1. The Electrifying Gershwin Score and Choreography
One of the main draws of Crazy for You is its incredible score, a vibrant collection of some of the greatest songs ever written for the American stage. The ERHS production masterfully brought these tunes to life, showcasing the students' vocal prowess and the orchestra's precision. Numbers like the iconic "I Got Rhythm" were transformed into high-energy, full-cast production pieces that left the audience breathless.
The musical is a demanding show for any theater company, particularly due to its extensive tap-dancing requirements. The ERHS students rose to the challenge, delivering intricate and synchronized choreography that was central to the show's exuberant feel. The dedication required to master these complex dance routines highlights the rigorous training and commitment of the East Ridge Theatre Department's performers.
2. Standout Performance by Lead Actor William Ross Mrozek
A high school production often hinges on the strength of its lead performers, and the Spring 2025 show was no exception. William Ross Mrozek, who took on the demanding role of Bobby Child, delivered a performance that garnered significant attention. Bobby Child is a triple-threat role, requiring strong acting, vocal ability, and expert dancing, especially tap.
Mrozek's portrayal of the charming but misguided banker who secretly longs for a life on the stage was a highlight. His ability to navigate the comedic elements of the plot while conveying the genuine romance with Polly Baker (the female lead) provided the emotional core of the show. His success in this role is a clear indicator of the high caliber of talent being nurtured within the ERHS theater program.
3. A Testament to Technical Excellence and Student Craftsmanship
Beyond the performances, the technical aspects of the ERHS production were a marvel of student craftsmanship. The show's narrative requires two distinct worlds: the glitz of a New York theater and the dusty, rundown look of Deadrock, Nevada. The ERHS students were responsible for designing and building the scenery and costumes from scratch, a monumental task that showcases their technical theater skills.
The transformation of the stage from a bustling metropolis to a sleepy Western town and back again was seamless and visually stunning. This level of technical complexity, managed entirely by the hard-working "Knights," underscores the comprehensive, hands-on education provided by the East Ridge High School Theatre Department. The production was a true ensemble effort, involving dozens of students in roles from stage management and lighting design to costuming and set construction.
4. The Enduring Appeal of the 'Deadrock' Storyline
The plot of Crazy for You is a classic "save the theater" story, a theme that resonates deeply with theater lovers and the community. Bobby Child's scheme to save the Deadrock theater by impersonating a famous producer and putting on a show is a beautiful metaphor for the power of art to revitalize a community. This message of hope, transformation, and chasing one's dreams provided a heartwarming and uplifting experience for all who attended the April 2025 performances. The contrast between the Zangler Follies Showgirls and the rugged cowboys of Deadrock offered plenty of comedic opportunities, all executed with precision by the student cast.
5. East Ridge’s Reputation as a Theatrical Powerhouse
The success of Crazy for You is not an isolated event but rather a continuation of the ERHS Theatre Department's reputation for producing high-quality, ambitious shows. The department's commitment to tackling challenging, full-scale Broadway musicals—featuring demanding music, complex choreography, and intricate technical requirements—sets a high standard for high school theater in the region. The department’s dedication to nurturing both performance and technical entities ensures a well-rounded and professional experience for its students and its audience. The production serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of arts education and the incredible talent flourishing within the East Ridge High School walls in Clermont, FL.
The enthusiasm generated by the 2025 production of Crazy for You ensures that future ERHS musicals will be highly anticipated events. Whether you are a fan of Gershwin’s music, a supporter of local high school arts, or simply looking for a fantastic evening of entertainment, the East Ridge High School Theatre Department consistently delivers a professional-level experience that is truly unforgettable.
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