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Sterling’s ‘romcom’ musical takes the stage
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COURTESY PHOTO Sterling College seniors Lily Stansbury, Caleb Brownlee, and Mary Little play leading roles in the Sterling College Musical Theatre production of “She Loves Me” which will be presented this Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Brownlee plays the leading role of Georg Nowack while Stansbury and Little share the role of his would-be love interest Amalia Balash. Stansbury will play the role on Friday night and Sunday afternoon while Little will play the role Saturday night and Monday afternoon for the Musical Theatre Day matinee.

“Romcoms” — short for romantic comedies — thrive on witty banter, mistaken identities, and the irresistible spark between two people who seem destined to fall in love. Sterling College Musical Theatre brings that beloved formula to the stage with “She Loves Me”, a charming romcom that has delighted audiences for decades. Performances are scheduled at 7:30 p.m. on April 17 and 18 and at 2 p.m. April 19 in Culbertson Auditorium.

The musical is based on the same enduring story that inspired multiple film adaptations, including the classic MGM movie musical “In the Good Old Summertime” and the modern romantic comedy “You’ve Got Mail” starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. Like those films, “She Loves Me” follows two co-workers who clash in person but unknowingly fall in love through anonymous letters — a timeless setup that blends sparkling comedy with heartfelt romance.

While the story has proven popular on screen, theatre audiences have embraced “She Loves Me” as one of musical theatre’s most delightful hidden gems. With a buoyant score by Jerry Bock and Sheldon Harnick and a warm, witty book by Joe Masteroff, the show features memorable songs, endearing characters, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.

Director Marisa Callan says the score and story are part of what make the musical so special. “The Bock and Harnick score is absolutely delightful — full of charm, humor, and heart,” Callan said. “It’s been so much fun to work on this gem of a musical. The characters are lovable, the comedy is genuine, and the romance unfolds in such a sweet and satisfying way. It’s the kind of show that leaves audiences smiling.”

Set in a 1930s European perfume shop, “She Loves Me” captures the excitement and misunderstandings of young love, blending romantic tension with classic comedic moments. The combination of timeless storytelling and a richly melodic score has helped the musical grow in popularity with theatre companies and college programs across the country.

Advance reserved tickets are available at www.sterling.edu/arts and will also be sold at the door before each performance. Ticket prices are $15 for adults and $5 for students.