As the lights began to dim and the faint sounds of a “Careless Whisper” faded away, audience members in the MK auditorium watched in awe as the months of hard work gradually came together. This March 12-14, audiences at Knolls were blessed with the heartwarming, nostalgic, and comedic satire that is “The Wedding Singer.” 

Originally based on the 90s Adam Sandler film, the musical “The Wedding Singer” directed by theater teacher Ms. Lindsay Dunn features a wedding performer named Robbie Hart (played by senior Nolan Lardiere) and his band mates George (played by sophomore Aaron Lesser) and Sammy (played by junior Chase Tay). The show revolves around Robbie navigating his failed romance with his fiancee, Linda (played by senior Sydney Davis), and his eventual newfound love, Julia Sullivan (played by senior Grace Henches).

Watching shows such as “Mamma Mia!” (2022), “Legally Blonde” (2024) and “Anything Goes” (2025) at Knolls raised my expectations for this production. Simultaneously, musical director Mrs. Kristin Markowski’s personal connection to the show heightened my expectations.  

Prior to the show, Markowski was asked what this show meant to her, and she explained how “This show is very personal to [her], as [she] got proposed to during a rehearsal of the show by [her] husband with the cast members pitching in.” Mrs. Markowski always puts her heart and soul into the art she creates, and that dedication was reflected in every scene.

When the curtains drew back, the dance number “It’s Your Wedding Day” featuring all members of the cast left me stunned. Between the colorful, geometric sets inspired by the 80s, the crimped, frizzy hairstyles, and the meticulous movements of every dancer in the scene, the attention to detail immediately immersed me into the show. 

Aside from the detailed set design and vibrant costumes, what stood out the most was the ability for every actor to offer something unique to the production. Senior Vivienne Berthelot’s hilarious adaptation of Hart’s grandmother and Lesser’s comedic timing added crucial layers to the show. Lardiere’s effortless, humorous delivery combined with Henches’ stunning vocals and emotional expressions showcased the on-stage chemistry they conveyed. In the penultimate song of the production, “Grow Old With You”, Lardiere and Henches delivered a bittersweet rendition, leaving not a single dry eye after the curtains closed.