“Crazy for You,” the School of Performing Arts’ final performance this year, is as demanding for performers as it is entertaining for the audience.

“The most challenging aspect is doing such a big show without a break,” Janet Wiggins said. “We’re dancing and singing in every scene, but you need to have stamina to do a show like this.”

Wiggins plays the character of Polly Baker.

Amy Baker Schwiethale directs the George and Ira Gershwin show.

“This show could not be a better challenge for our students,” she said. “It’s one of those shows that really push students out of their comfort zones, but we’re doing really well.” 

Baker Schwiethale is as excited as her students about finishing the season strong.

“That is exactly why I wanted to do this show, to push them to that next professional level,” she said.

“I can’t imagine you not loving the Gershwin score,” Schwiethale said. “But if that’s not enough, there’s dancing, there’s stage combat, physical comedy, and if all that is not enough, you have showgirls in showgirl outfits—you can’t go wrong.” 

Originally opening on Broadway in 1992, “Crazy for You” ran for more than 1,600 performances, as audiences could not get enough of the music and lyrics from the Gershwins.

The set is simple at first glance, using minimal color and open space, but it becomes so much more than that. 

“There is something going on in every scene,” said set designer Michael Downs. “Blackouts have never been favorites of mine, but when the scenery just keeps folding and moving, the audience is brought along with it.”

Joe Consiglio plays Bobby Child alongside Baker. 

“Crazy for You” will run at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. Sunday in Wilner Auditorium. Student tickets are $6 and can be purchased from the WSU Fine Arts Box Office at 978-3233 or online at http://www.wichita.edu/j/?1969.