Sparta teen to perform in musical

SPARTA — At 17 years old, Sparta resident Anthony Sica, has always been drawn to the spotlight.

"I like the idea of putting on a show and telling a story," he explained. "I like the story and the singing and dancing. When I went to a show I was inspired. I wanted to give it a try so that I could be part of something."

With that newfound inspiration, Sica went on to appear in local productions of all sorts of shows, including "Pippin" and "Sweeney Todd." Recently, Sica was cast in the upcoming production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” coming to the Mayo Performing Arts Center in Morristown on May 31.

"For this show I saw it in the paper and decided to audition," Sica said.

The work is actually the first original production in the 17 season history of the nonprofit performing arts organization and features 70 local youth performers.

"It has been a really fun experience," he said. "We are getting along and becoming like a family."

While he has enjoyed his time at the theater, it hasn't been all fun and games but rather a learning experience.

"I have never worked with such a variation of ages before," said Sica. "It has been different from what I am used to, with working with people that are all your age. I've learned to definitely be more patient."

Since the show is so widely known, the theater company will try to put an original spin on it.

"I think our version is a funny show. It is a very dramatic piece but we have some humor to it," Sica explained. "People can expect to see a professional, hardworking group of kids that are very passionate about the show. It is an experience for all."

As far as what the future holds? Sica isn't sure yet but he does know it involves the theater.

"I plan to take what I learned here at the Mayo Performing Arts Center and definitely pursue other theater companies."