From the first beats of the opening number to the final bow, the stage at the Walter Reade Jr. Theatre came alive with color, rhythm, and energy as Storm King School students delivered three electrifying performances of In the Heights. Bursting with vibrant choreography, dynamic vocals, and infectious Latin and hip-hop rhythms, the show captured the spirit of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s beloved musical and transported the audience straight to the lively streets of New York City’s Washington Heights.
Set in this neighborhood on the brink of change, the story begins with Usnavi, a first-generation Dominican American bodega owner who dreams of returning to the Dominican Republic after the death of his parents. Around him, friends and neighbors confront their own challenges: a family struggles to afford Ivy League tuition for their brilliant daughter, a young woman works to save for a new apartment, and local businesses face rising rents and a rapidly evolving neighborhood. Through love, hardship, and hope, the residents of Washington Heights ultimately come together as a community, mourning losses, celebrating triumphs, and wondering how a winning lottery ticket might change their futures.
“Bringing this vibrant story to life is no small feat,” commented Performing Arts Chair Anne Fulton. “I’ve wanted to direct In the Heights for several years but had put it off as being too difficult musically. I felt confident that our current students would be able to handle it.” According to Mrs. Fulton, the show demanded tremendous stamina and versatility, blending rap and hip-hop narration with Latin rhythms such as salsa and merengue, along with soulful R&B–inspired melodies and complex vocal harmonies under the direction of Music Director Paul Connors and Vocal Director Gabriela Mikova. “Storm King’s cast rose to the challenge,” added co-director Sarah Fulton ’09, “bringing complex scenes to life with expressive singing and rich ensemble vocals that elevated the entire performance.”
Dance was just as central to the storytelling. Under the direction of dance instructor Jeanette Jacobson, students performed Latin social dances like mambo and salsa alongside energetic hip-hop and lyrical choreography that highlighted the show’s emotional moments. Large ensemble numbers often required performers to sing, act, and dance simultaneously. “In the Heights was a challenging show in every way,” Mrs. Fulton continued. “Our students embraced the music, choreography, and storytelling with incredible commitment, truly capturing the show’s spirit and sense of community.”
Attended by students, parents, faculty, staff, and community supporters, the performances left audiences on their feet. One viewer said, “I didn’t want the show to end,” while another called it “one of the best Storm King musicals I’ve ever seen.” Many agreed that this production “sets the bar very high on every level,” a sentiment reflected in the standing ovations that closed all three performances.
The show was also brought to life by a talented and dedicated team behind the scenes. With the guidance of Technical Director Eliza Brown, the stage crew kept scene changes running smoothly, and the lighting team highlighted dramatic and musical moments. Together, the performers, musicians, and technical team created an unforgettable theatrical experience. With its vibrant music, energetic choreography, and heartfelt performances, In the Heights was a joyful celebration of community, culture, and the extraordinary talents of the Storm King cast.
Cast of Characters
Usnavi de la Vega: Brandon M. ’29
Nina Rosario: Kira S. ’28
Benny: Santiago S. ’26
Vanessa: Milana R. ’28
Abuela Claudia: Kaitlyn M. ’27
Sonny: Antonio M. ’26
Daniela: Rebecca H. ’28
Carla: Julianna D. ’27
Kevin Rosario: Shaheer A. ’26
Camila Rosario: Selina Z. ’28
Graffiti Pete: Jackson T. ’28
Piragua Guy: Elijah F. ’27
Ensemble
Eylul B. ’28 , Alex B. ’28, Johnny C. ’29, Lorelei D. ’29 , Rebecca E. ’28, Evangeline G. ’26, Jiann L. ’26, Antonio R. ’26, Vasilisa R. ’26, Kristen S. ’28, Evie T. ’29, Laney T. ’30, Kyler W. ’27, Reese V. ’29, Nancy Y. ’30
