March 2, 2001

Hauser (left) and Lemieux

When she isn't working as a full-time registered dietitian for Nutrition and Food Services at the MGH, Susan Hauser, MS, RD, is rehearsing her dance steps. And when Karlene Lemieux, RN, BSN, isn't treating patients as a nurse in MGH Clinical Care Management, she's exercising her singing voice. Once the duo leave the hallowed halls of the MGH, the curtain rises, the audience cheers — and it's showtime. These two MGHers are appearing on stage together in "David — The Musical," March 8 to 11 at the Emerson Majestic Theatre.

The show is based upon the life of the Biblical King David, conqueror of Goliath, husband of Bathsheeba and inspiration behind Michelangelo's famed statue. "'David' is a timeless adaptation," explains Hauser, who is performing as a featured dancer in the show. She describes her part as that of "a revolutionary gang member, trying to bring down King David." Lemieux plays the part of "Abigael," the town gossip. Although the role allows her to showcase her vocal talents, "I really have to act too," she says.

"David's" storyline is faithful to biblical history, but also incorporates such modern elements as hip hop and rock music, contemporary dialogue and ballads.

While they admit to some pre-show jitters, both women boast a long list of showbiz accomplishments. Hauser trained and performed competitively as a dancer throughout college, before taking a class in nutrition that convinced her to become a dietitian. Lemieux has been a singer and actress since high school. She recently moved to MGH Clinical Care Management after working on the Ellison 9 CCU.

Hauser and Lemieux first met in 1999. While chatting at rehearsal for a show they were performing in together, the MGHers discovered that they not only shared a passion for the theater, but shared an employer as well. They beat out more than 80 hopefuls in "David's" grueling audition process for a production they say they are proud of.

"David" will be performed at 8 pm, March 8 through 10, with a Sunday matinee performance at 2 pm, March 11. On March 8, $5 from each ticket sold for that evening's show will benefit the Shriners Burns Institute, which is sponsoring the performance.

For more information, visit the website http://www.david-themusical.com.