Wantagh thespians are revving up for perhaps the most modern musical the high school has ever seen with the upcoming production of “1660 Vine,” a tale of the life of social media influencers. There will be four performances from Nov. 21-23.

Based on the movie released in 2022 on Amazon Prime, “1660 Vine” tells the intersecting stories of young social media stars living together in a Los Angeles apartment complex. They all strive to make their mark online while navigating the realities of identity, mental health, friendship and authenticity in a world defined by clicks and followers. 

Wantagh Theatre Director Dr. Kimberly Davis said that while the fall play is usually a drama, she selected this musical because it was recently released for high school productions and is relatable to a social media-savvy generation of students. It is a technically demanding show as the characters live stream from devices during the show, with the feed appearing on a screen on the back stage wall. There will also be a small pit band directly on the stage. 

Lead actors include Ryan Mundy as Danny Teller, Peyton Berlew as Jupe, Emily McHale as Rose, Avery Ferrara as Luna and Sam Garbowski as Eve. There is a total cast of 20 students. 

Ryan, a junior, is taking on his biggest role as a high school student, portraying an almost-20-year-old aspiring influencer trying to become famous. He had never heard of “1660 Vine” before the show was announced, and is looking forward to putting his own spin on Danny.

“I can bring an open mindset to it and make my character 100% original,” Ryan said. “That’s really special.”

Sophomore Peyton said her character is a social butterfly but is secretly seeking a much more discreet life as a poet. She is also serving as a student director.

“Everyone’s been working so hard,” Peyton said. “We have been taking critiques and carefully applying them. The more rehearsals we do, the better the characters build.”

Emily, a ninth grader, plays a music influencer who writes original music and noted that Rose is a character she connects with deeply. She is no stranger to the spotlight as she appeared in several middle school productions, including portraying Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz” in seventh grade. 

The cast of “1660 Vine” got a treat along the way when the writer, Jackson Prince, attended a rehearsal. He talked to the cast about the different characters and gave some feedback, while also discussing the creative process. 

Dr. Davis is supported by vocal director Sameerah Cassidy, technical director Christopher Cockren, music director Thomas Brody and stage crew director Victoria Briguglio. The electrifying pop score includes songs “Rodanthe,” “Stuck” and “Welcome Back.”

“‘1660 Vine’ captures the reality of growing up in the social media age while celebrating the courage it takes to be authentic and kind in a world that’s always watching,” said Dr. Davis. “Our cast and crew have embraced this project with such courage and creativity, and we are very excited to share it with the community.”

Show times are Friday, Nov. 21 at 7 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 22 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 23 at 1 p.m. in the Wantagh High School auditorium. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students and senior citizens and can be purchased online at seat yourself.