By Irene González de las Casas
Graphics by Emily Cheng
South Stage Presents 9 to 5
South Stage’s spring production, 9 to 5, the Musical, was performed on May 18, 19 and 20. The show follows three women, as they face their sexist work environment. Directed by Paige Perkinson, the musical consisted of 35 actors who rehearsed for two months leading up to the production. The music and lyrics of 9 to 5 were written by Dolly Parton and the show was based on the 20th-century Fox movie.
“I really enjoyed being a part of run crew for this show, there is a strong community among the members of stage crew. I love hearing the music from the sides of the auditorium – especially the song Heart to Heart.” – Cate Siracusa, class of ’25
“I learned a lot from the upperclassmen and their experiences in South Stage. It was really insightful to learn from others’ experiences.” -David Rosenberg, class of ’26
Solar Panels on the NCF
On May 6, the Newton Community Farm completed the installation of solar panels on their south-facing barn. The solar panels were finalized in partnership with the city of Newton,
the Newton Community Farm, Resonant Energy and ACE Solar. The installation is the result of many years of work, as discussions began back in 2019 with the intention to offset all of the Farm’s electrical needs by running solely on renewable energy.
“We model and teach sustainable farming for the community. Running on solar allows us to reduce our carbon footprint further while stewarding this beautiful open space, the last working farm in Newton,” Sue Bottino, Executive Director at Newton Community Farm, at the ribbon cutting event.
“We are honored to have been selected by the City of Newton to install this system.” Nick Moore, Project Manager with ACE Solar, at the ribbon cutting event
Healey chooses new housing secretary
On May 15, Governor Maura Healy announced that Worcester’s former city manager Ed Augustus will be the next housing secretary of Massachusetts. Augustus’s appointment was met with mixed reviews as some believe that Augustus’s work in Worcester benefited only the higher classes, while others argue that his experience is vital to address the current Massachusetts housing crisis.
“He left Worcester a stronger city than it was a decade ago, with booming economic development in the downtown and thousands of new housing units.” Healey said via public statement
“Your experiences in local and state government are vital for developing policies and supports to produce the homes that people and the Commonwealth need to thrive!” Rachel Heller, CEO of the Citizens’ Housing and Planning Association, via Twitter.
