THE DIRECTOR
Welcome! Where were you in 1958? Were you even alive? I was three years
old. Growing up during this time, and into the sixties, I remember Ed Sullivan,
black and white televisions, the Beatles, rock & roll, and Elvis Presley. I also
remember telephone party lines, and how we had LONG phone cords so we could
go behind closed doors and talk for hours with our friends until we heard the
inevitable cry from one of our mothers: “Please get off the phone now! Your father needs to make a call!”
It’s been so much fun working with this cast and crew on Bye Bye Birdie. I’ve had
the chance to reach back and remember a simpler time in American history. The
story of Bye Bye Birdie was inspired by the true events of Elvis Presley being
drafted into the army in March 1958. It began as a Broadway musical in 1960 and
was turned into a movie in 1963, starring Ann Margaret, Janet Leigh, Dick Van
Dyke, Paul Lynde, Jean Stapleton and Bobbie Rydell. In 1995 there was a made-
for-television version starring Jason Alexander, Vanessa Williams and Chynna
Phillips.
The script for Bye Bye Birdie brought up many questions and great conversations
with the cast, so in case you need a vocabulary lesson
Going Steady Couples declared their exclusive affections towards one
another. After going steady for a few years, the couple
would get engaged.
Getting Pinned A boy would “Pin” his steady by giving her his club or
fraternity pin.
Party Phone Lines More than one family shared a subscription to a phone system.
Loop the Loop A roller coaster ride—or slang for a “hot date”!
So, sit back, relax, tap your toes, and enjoy this performance of Bye Bye Birdie and
a more innocent time in America.
Terri Smith
Drama Teacher, Bowditch Middle School
Producer/Director of BBB
THE PRINCIPAL
Welcome Bowditch students, staff, families, and community members to our annual spring musical, “Bye Bye Birdie.” Our actors and crew have worked endless hours
to present a spectacular show for you. Mrs. Terri Smith and her team have also
put in long hours to support our students in their respective roles. A huge thank
you to our parents and sponsors for supporting our show. Congratulations on a wonderful show! Now, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the show!
Judith Ross
Principal, Bowditch Middle School
