Anything Goes 2024
In 2024 Claremont High school put on the musical “Anything Goes” written by Cole Porter in the 1930’s.
Quick Synopsis: On the SS Claremont, young Wall Street broker Billy Crocker stows away to pursue Hope Harcourt, the woman he loves, who is engaged to wealthy Englishman Lord Evelyn Oakleigh to save her family’s fortune. His friend, nightclub singer Reno Sweeney, secretly loves him but helps him win Hope’s heart. Meanwhile, gangster Moonface Martin and his sidekick Erma disguise themselves to evade capture, dragging Billy into a whirlwind of mistaken identities. After being wrongly celebrated as the notorious “Public Enemy No. 1,” Billy’s deception unravels, and Hope agrees to marry Evelyn. Reno then charms Evelyn, discovering his romantic and spontaneous side, while Billy and Moonface escape from the ship’s brig to stop the wedding. A final round of comic chaos sees Reno posing as a princess, forcing Evelyn to “redeem” himself by giving Hope to Billy and marrying Reno instead. Hope’s mother, Evangeline, fears financial ruin until Billy’s boss, Elisha J. Whitney, unexpectedly becomes rich, securing everyone’s happiness. The show ends with all three couples united as the passengers celebrate that in love—and life—“Anything Goes.”
List of Musical Numbers:
Act I
I Get a Kick Out of You
Reno Sweeney sings about her unrequited love for Billy Crocker, confessing that nothing in life excites her the way he does. It reveals her vulnerability beneath her confident showgirl persona.
There’s No Cure Like Travel / Bon Voyage
The ship’s crew and passengers sing excitedly about their upcoming journey to London. It sets the lively, high-society atmosphere of the *SS American* and introduces the ensemble.
You’re the Top
Reno and Billy exchange playful compliments, comparing each other to famous people and luxury items. The witty lyrics show their chemistry and Cole Porter’s signature wordplay.
Easy to Love
Billy serenades Hope, confessing how naturally he loves her despite their social differences. Hope is touched but insists on fulfilling her engagement to Lord Evelyn.
The Crew Song
The sailors sing about their romantic fantasies of women waiting for them in every port. It adds comic relief and shows the exuberant mood of shipboard life.
Friendship
Reno and Moonface celebrate their loyalty to each other in a humorous duet that quickly devolves into competitive bickering. It highlights their comic chemistry and warm-hearted mischief.
It’s De-Lovely
Billy and Hope share a tender, romantic moment, realizing their love despite the obstacles ahead. The song’s clever wordplay and melody make it one of Porter’s most enduring love duets.
Anything Goes
Reno leads the ship in a dazzling tap number that celebrates modern-day chaos and moral looseness. It’s both social satire and a showstopping dance extravaganza that closes Act I.
Act II
Public Enemy Number One
The passengers celebrate Billy, mistakenly believing he’s a dangerous gangster. The number mocks America’s obsession with celebrity and crime.
Blow, Gabriel, Blow
Reno, dressed as an evangelist, leads a rousing gospel-style revival urging sinners to repent. It’s the musical’s high-energy showpiece, symbolizing redemption and joy.
Goodbye, Little Dream, Goodbye
Hope mourns the loss of her love for Billy, accepting her duty to marry Evelyn. It’s a soft, bittersweet ballad that deepens her emotional arc.
Be Like the Bluebird
Moonface tries to cheer up Billy in the brig by encouraging him to stay optimistic like a carefree bird. The silly lyrics and upbeat tune contrast with Billy’s despair.
All Through the Night
Billy and Hope, separated on the ship, sing a heartfelt duet expressing their love and longing. It’s one of the show’s most sincere and romantic numbers.
Gypsy in Me
Evelyn reveals to Reno his spontaneous, passionate nature through a playful tango. The song marks his transformation from a stiff aristocrat into a lively romantic partner.
Buddy Beware
Erma warns her many admirers that being with her won’t be easy—she expects devotion and excitement. It’s a cheeky, flirtatious song that shows her independence.
Finale (Anything Goes – Reprise)
The entire cast celebrates the happy pairings and the joyful chaos of the voyage. It ties together the show’s themes of love, luck, and laughter with one last burst of energy.
Me as Hope Harcourt
I’m crazy about him!… Oh this is tragic! I’ve ruined my life! I’ve ruined his life! And now it’s raining!
Hope harcourt
