Howell PAL Theater Co — Attraction in Howell Township

Howell PAL Theatre Company put on West Side Story with their Anita and Sharks actors as WHITE actors. Said characters are supposed to be Puerto Rican or atleast played by hispanic/latino actors. The whole premise of West Side Story for the Sharks is about their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence and prejudice. That is directly in the official description on MTI and the casting for the Sharks and Anita say PUERTO RICAN. Yeah, their Maria and Bernardo are of hispanic descent but is that all the color they can take? I find it absolutely appalling that they visibly tanned their WHITE actors and made them look more ethnic. They also had them sing with accents. As a Puerto Rican myself, this is disgusting. Since when was my culture, my race, my people as a whole were costumes and characters? Why not cast the show faithfully or change your summer show in general? There are plenty of musicals catered to white performance groups and shows where the race doesn’t matter. Why choose one of the few musicals where half the cast is supposed to be casted as Puerto Ricans or hispanics. The race MATTERS in this story and it isn’t something the people casted could ever tell correctly. Everyone in this show is at fault because it is 2023. Do not take roles not meant for you, it’s very easy to tell right from wrong. Why are you putting on another In The Whites? Like, alright White Side Story! All in all, this is absolutely disgusting and I would not recommend this...

★★★★★ (5/5 stars)

My daughter's experience with Howell PAL Theatre Company and Ms. Bryck has been transformative. Through multiple showcases and two recent productions, I've watched my daughter blossom into a confident performer under Ms. Bryck's guidance.

While the shows themselves are impressively professional, what truly stands out is Ms. Bryck's ability to connect with and nurture each student. She creates a supportive environment where young performers can grow and challenge themselves. Her loving and kind approach has helped my daughter develop not just as an actor, but as a person.

The confidence my daughter has gained through this program is remarkable. Ms. Bryck truly cares about all her students, and it shows in how they develop both on and off stage. We are incredibly grateful to have found this theater company and such an exceptional director who has made such a positive impact on our...

In HPALTC my daughter has met some of the best people and she made friendships that will last a lifetime! From the kids, to the parents that help, everyone is just so nice and caring of each other. Not only is this a theater Company but a family as well. From day one, Ms Bryck made my daughter feel included and supported! We...