Playing to a full house two nights in a row, the Lafayette High School drama class was a resounding success.

But, to hear them tell it, the real star is Cathy Palomino, drama class teacher and director of last week’s production of “Grease.”

Even though she wasn’t in the spotlight on stage, Palomino’s presence was very evident as she sat near the stage laboring over every song, every line spoken and every move made on stage.

“Mrs. Palomino finds hidden treasure in her students,” said Courtney Jackson. Playing Sandy Dumbrowski, Jackson said the students watched the movie version of Grease then auditioned for the roles. “Performing under Mrs. Palomino’s direction was a wonderful experience and playing the part of Sandy, which was my first choice was great,” Jackson said.

The cast of over 30 students brought the play to life with about 16 weeks of rehearsal. On their opening night they flawlessly breezed through the production as they carried the audience along for what many said was one of their most enjoyable nights, one to be remembered.

According to Charles Hodge, AKA(also known as) Danny Zuko, knew he wanted to be Zuko. Hodge loves to sing and Zuko had several songs to perform. Saying he was pleased to be chosen for the part Hodge added, “Mrs. Palomino always looks for variety for her students, last year’s performance was different as I’m sure next year’s will be.”

Playing Mrs. Lynch, high school principal, was LHS teacher Cynthia Shiver. Shiver had the distinction of being the only adult on stage with a cast of real life students playing students.

Shiver said she had not performed in a high school play since she was in high school, but found the experience very enjoyable. She echoed the comments of the other cast members about Palomino. “She has a gift to bring out the talent inside of you, making you feel completely comfortable with the performance,” said Shiver.

Stars Kristen Cone and Donna Robinson added their agreement about Mrs. Palomino’s unique ability to direct. Cone said she felt right at home as the character Patty Simcox. Robinson said she was able to be Frenchy because, “I have a lot in common with her.”

This writer found it hard to choose who was a star and who was supporting cast since each of the students and (Shiver) shined brightly in their performances. And the stardust didn’t stop at the stage but continued to the many students who were backstage, in the sound room, who did the make-up, moved the props, and took care of the programs and tickets.

The star dust was shining on the person sitting near the stage, Cathy Palomino, who was living every moment of the play through her students’ talents that she had put on display for all to enjoy.

When Palomino came to the stage at the conclusion of the program she was visibly pleased and proud of the performances of her students….and just as her students had praised her work, she turned the attention to them, taking no credit for the success of the play, instead she faded into the background as her students took the traditional bow of the curtain call.