High school students combine harmony, humor and fun for Madrigal Feaste

The lunch room at Cape Girardeau Central High School will go back in time a few centuries this weekend as it transforms into a winter setting for the school's annual Madrigal Feaste.

About 80 students will perform Friday and Saturday in the Renaissance-themed production, which features harmony, humor and food.

"Sometimes you can't get their attention off the pork," said Nikki Graham, who plays the duchess. She is one of several senior students on the royal court for the performance. The group helps determine the tone of the performance each year, she said.

"We've got a lot of loud, extroverted people on the royal court," she said.

For seniors, she said, it is the pinnacle of high school choir.

"Freshman year, I couldn't wait," said Brittany Graham, who plays the princess.

Between the salad and dessert, the dinner-theater mixes song, dance, skits and audience participation, she said.

"We get to have fun and move around," she said.

It includes nontraditional Christmas songs and some older arrangements, said Mollie Young, the queen. One song is performed in Italian.

"It's actually pretty easy because you just learn how to pronounce the words," Young said.

The production includes a town crier, lords, ladies and other royalty. Dressing in Renaissance costumes is also a highlight, said Nikki Graham, who wears a gold and brown dress.

"They're poofy," she said. "I like poofy."

"I love seeing everybody all dressed up the night of," Young said. "All the costumes are just really gorgeous."

Reservations are $20 and can be made by calling the high school at 335-8228.

Jackson students will also host a Madrigal Feaste at the Bavarian Halle. There will be shows at 5:30 p.m. today, Friday and Saturday. Perryville, Mo., students will have a Madrigal Dinner at 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday in the performing arts auditorium.

abusch@semissourian.com

388-3627

Pertinent address:

1000 S. Silver Springs Road Cape Girardeau, MO