Three Sisters – Abington Friends School

Three Sisters by Abington Friends School in Jenkintown, PA

April 23, 2024

Review submitted by Brynleigh Duffy of Upper Dublin High School

Tucked away in the Russian countryside, hidden under the cover of towering birch trees, Abington Friends School retells the classic Russian tale of Three Sisters, and you won’t want to miss it.

Three Sisters, written by Anton Chekhov in 1901, follows the Prozorov sisters lives in their small provincial town shortly after their father’s death. The seasons pass by, the military arrives, new additions to their household come and go. But in the end, the changes are not enough the bring the sisters the lives they always dreamed of.

One word that comes to mind when thinking of this production as a whole: Intention. It was evident in every moment of the production – the cast and crew had a clear intention behind what they were doing. The show was full of consistent acting choices, period-accurate props, and many other highlights that did not go unnoticed.

As one would expect, the title characters of Three Sisters were the driving force behind the entire piece. All three actors were consistent throughout all of their time onstage, and showed huge growth in their characters as the plot progressed. Yael Smith Posner (Olga) notably showed her characters emotions in her physical mannerisms which was incredibly interesting to watch. In a similar vein, Ruby Schumm (Masha) allowed all of her choices to feel natural to the audience and embodied her character impressively well.

However, this show would not have been possible without support from actors outside of this trio. Aly Cromar (Natasha) played a successful foil to the sisters, with her obsessive and erratic temper driving the conflict of the play. Actors Sadie Mills (Kulygin) and Oliver Peterson (Chebutykin) showed huge range throughout the show, providing comedic relief as well as many serious moments.

The technical aspects of Three Sisters acted as the final bow to tie the whole production together. There were many props utilized throughout the show, all of which blended in perfectly with the setting. The stage management team also had extensive notes to track these props, as well as many other aspects of the show, which was very impressive to see. The few scene changes were thorough, even if slightly drawn out at times.

AFS’s production of Three Sisters is one that will undoubtedly stand the test of time.

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Review submitted by Sam Goldwert of Friends Select School

“I often think, what if one were to begin life over again, knowing what one is about!” If audiences were to begin life over again, a wise decision would be to purchase a ticket to Abington Friends School’s production of Three Sisters, as enjoyable nights of excellent theatre are what it is all about.

Three Sisters was written by Russian playwright Anton Chekhov. Written in 1900, the play follows three young adult sisters: the caring Olga, the forward Masha, and the innocent Irina. The play’s four acts are set in each of the four seasons, but the duration of time spanned is left to audience interpretation as the sisters’ attempts towards love and happiness play out.

Tackling a historical play is a challenging task for any high school, but Abington Friends School carried out the production with grace, charm, and talent.

The titular three sisters have a wealth of character development and stage time, making them extremely difficult roles to perform. Nevertheless, Yael Smith Posner, Ruby Schumm, and Clellan Hirlinger each brought something unique to the roles of Olga, Masha, and Irina, respectively. Each actor made sure their characters remained consistent throughout the play, even when not the focus of the scene, which contributed greatly to the show’s realism.

The supporting roles truly brought the world of the play to life. Aly Cromar gave a truly chilling performance as the hysterical and controlling Natasha, and Koby Fallon portrayed Andrei’s complexity with balance and grace. Robbie Brickhouse and Nelson Cordón gave equally balanced performances as Vershinin and Tuzenbach, two soldiers and the main love interests. Alejandro Perez-Fernández shone as Solyony, garnering lots of laughter during his frequent comedic moments.

Technically, this show was extremely complex for a high school production. A whopping amount of props (over 250) were designed and managed by a team of students, each one contributing to the show beautifully. The hair and makeup was nearly flawless and accurate to the setting and time period. Set changes were infrequent and well-choreographed, but they were quite time-consuming.

Overall, Abington Friends School’s production of Three Sisters was extremely successful. Audiences can expect to leave the theater saying “I don’t know why I’m so happy!”

Catch Me if You Can – Sun Valley High School

Catch Me if You Can by Sun Valley High School in Aston, PA

March 20, 2024

Review submitted by Olivia Lee of Harriton High School

Live in Sun Valley High School, Sun Valley’s theater company put on a colorful production of Catch Me If You Can that overflowed with jaw-dropping talent, knee-slapping lines, and heart-warming passion.

Loosely based on the exploits of self-proclaimed con artist Frank Abagnale Jr., Catch Me If You Can is a musical written by Terrence McNally and composed by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. In the life-shattering wake of his parent’s divorce, Frank discovers how to forge checks; suddenly, the entire world unlocks in his hands. For a while it is all fun and games, but the consequences of Frank’s lies grow up with him as FBI agent Hanratty closes in on his trail.

There was not a bad bone in the body of Sun Valley’s cast, that’s as clear as pinstripes.

Playing Frank himself, Seamus McGroary performed with astounding vocal range and stamina, maintaining his clarity and vivaciousness from the moment the lights flooded the stage to the curtain call. McGroary showcased his ability to capture both the sincerity of youth and the scariness of the consequences of one’s actions, his voice quivering in “Goodbye” as if he himself had realized there was no “just stopping” after years of fraud. Jermaine Howard as Carl Hanratty also displayed his impressive vocal prowess in the toe-tapping “Don’t Break the Rules.” His interactions with his fellow agents (Dakotah Hermann, Collin Richardson, and John Tittermary) left the audience laughing. McGroary and Howard’s chemistry in their something-stronger-than-cop-and-robber dynamic brought their characters further to life in “My Favorite Time of the Year,” making the show all the more investing.

Another vocally gifted cast member was Jonathan Michael, whose performance as Frank Abagnale Sr. staggeringly captured the character’s spiraling mental health as he went from a laughing, confident father in “Butter Outta the Cream” to a desperate, screaming alcoholic in Act II. Madison Meehan portrayed Brenda Strong’s similar spiral in “Fly, Fly Away,” her raw emotion and expressive singing leaving the audience in teary-eyed applause.

Sun Valley’s ensemble was truly a powerhouse, raising energy with impressive dance numbers and heavenly harmonies. Energy soared through the roof in “Doctor’s Orders” with Joey Lanni’s strong dancing, Mattie Stone’s powerful singing, and Amaya Howard’s crystalline high-notes standing out from the catalog of skilled performers. With such a large cast, Sun Valley’s crew and stage managers deserve high praise for the seamless transitions and placement that strung the show together.

Sun Valley should pack their bags and ship straight to Broadway for their stunning rendition of Catch Me If You Can. They are staying here for now, but be careful—blink your eyes and they might be gone!

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Review submitted by Finn Anderson of Upper Dublin High School

Doctor? Doctor?! Somebody call a doctor because Sun Valley High School’s action-packed production of Catch Me If You Can made hearts race, eyes swell, and left the audience on the edge of their seats, yearning for more.

First released on the big screens on December 25, 2002, Catch Me If You Can was later adapted into a musical in 2011. Originated by Leonardo DiCaprio, Catch Me If You Can follows a juvenile boy, Frank Abagnale Jr, and his escape from the FBI as he pursues a career as the world’s greatest… doctor? Pilot? Let’s just say con-man.

Leading the charge as the sly guy himself, Seamus McGroary (Frank Abagnale Jr.) captivated the audience from the first note that left his mouth. From his hilarious timing to jaw-dropping ballads such as “Goodbye”, McGroary never left the moment and oozed chemistry with every actor on stage.

But Abagnale Jr.’s journey would not have been complete without the help of Madison Meehan (Brenda Strong) whose compelling portrayal of young love yet harrowing portrait of grief strung the audience on an emotional journey. Another stand-out was the formidable Jonathan Michael (Frank Abagnale Sr.) whose raw demeanor created an uncomfortable reality for the audience, exhibiting great acting with an even better understanding of his character.

Sun Valley’s ensemble was energetic and powerful, but The Nurses, Jay Cunliffe (Nurse 1), Joey Lanni (Nurse 2), Mattie Stone (Nurse 3), and Amaya Howard (Nurse 4) undoubtedly shook the stage with their powerful belts and their all-around sass, creating an electric buzz in the air that reverberated throughout the theater.

With so many set transitions and so few blackouts, Sun Valley’s stage crew did an admirable job at shifting their sets and doing so quietly and unnoticed. Because of Connor Crowley, Isabel Claudio, Jack Saunders, and Maxine McKinney, the pace and rhythm of the show never skipped a beat, and for that, a job well done.

From dancing flight attendants to airport shootouts, Sun Valley High School was able to not only capture great action and comedy but was able to present a rawer side to humanity, breathing great life and truth into their production of Catch Me If You Can.

Mean Girls – Haverford Senior High School

Photo by Reese Wagner Photopgraphy

Mean Girls by Haverford Senior High School in Havertown, PA

March 20, 2024

Review submitted by Margot Shea of Friends’ Central School

Haverford Senior High School’s performance of Mean Girls wasn’t a regular show, it was a cool show. An extremely energetic and talented group of students outdid themselves and truly kept the spirit of the original Mean Girls. They confidently took on the difficult vocals, acting, and choreography, proving they are quite accomplished. Their rendition of the show was engaging and entertaining.

Cady Heron, who has been homeschooled in Africa her whole life, has moved to the States and attends North Shore High. She quickly discovers that the school is run by a trio of regal girls named “The Plastics.” Cady soon becomes attached to the idea of The Plastics and begins to socialize alongside them. Throughout the school year, she grapples with fitting in and trying to discover where she truly belongs.

This production was anchored by the consistent energy of the entire cast and the attention to accuracy. Nearly every member of the ensemble was eager and engaged. All members took their roles very seriously and made them very believable, yet unique.

Jocelyn Knorr gave us a fantastic performance during her role as Cady due to her confidence and captivating vocals. Jessie Smith, who portrayed the infamous Regina George, was especially memorable because of her Broadway-bound vocals and attention to detail. The three Plastics stayed true to their roles but also personalized them well.

Nearly all members of the larger ensemble had consistent energy and awareness of their actions and surroundings. They performed the choreography amazingly and in sync which was exceptional and proved their collective talent. The Mathletes, especially, added comedic effect and impressive enthusiasm. Leo Sacks, who played Damian Hubbard, was an absolute joy to watch and added a large amount of humor and fun to the show. Isa Vasquez-Janik played a convincing Karen Smith and her acting was playful and realistic.

The stage crew made the show run smoothly for the majority of the show. The sound was satisfactory and had some mistakes, but they recovered impressively. Lights during scene transitions were frequently sudden and a bit distracting. The physical sets were very well-built and precise.

This near-professional production proved that Haverford Senior High School knows how to put on a show, one that is worthy of mounds of praise and standing ovations.

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Review submitted by Noa Sussan of Upper Dublin High School

A thrilling production filled with teenage drama and razor-sharp wit, Haverford High School’s production of Mean Girls was “so fetch!”

The musical, written by Tina Fey with music by Jeff Richmond and Nell Benjamin, follows the story of the new girl, Cady Heron, as she navigates American high school for the first time. After becoming friends with both the outcasts and popular girls, it is up to her to decide who her true friends really are.

Haverford High School was overflowing with exceptional talent. Leading the cast, Jocelyn Knorr, as Cady Heron, portrayed a captivating blend of geeky charm and intriguing allure. Her powerhouse performances exceptionally showcased Cady’s internal unrest. Alongside her, Jessie Smith, who played Regina George, portrayed considerable prowess, commanding the stage with both a mesmerizing and chilling intensity.

The supporting cast and ensembles were equally essential. Through their spunky personalities, the dynamic duo of Janis Sarkisian and Damien Hubbard, played by Ava Miller and Leo Sacks, added layers of comedic brilliance to the production. Additionally, the portrayal of Gretchen Weiners and Karen Smith by Annie Thompson and Isa Vasquez-Janik displayed the complexities of their characters in a raw, yet humorous, manner.

The ensemble radiated unparalleled energy throughout the entire production. Their lively, choreography-heavy performances added a level of organized chaos commonly found in a high school setting.

The excellence of Haverford’s production would be incomplete without mentioning its technical elements. The set’s clever utilization of levels and movable set pieces made for exuberant performances. There was a noteworthy amount of costumes, meticulously curated with impressive attention to detail. The iconic classic American high school set, with contemporary costuming, masterfully captured the essence of the modern American high school experience.

With its spirited performances, strong individual personalities, and high-energy numbers, Haverford High School’s production of Mean Girls breathed new life into a beloved classic.

Curtains – Delaware County Christian School

Curtains by Delaware County Christian School in Newtown Square, PA

March 13, 2024

Review submitted by Claire Arnault of Conestoga High School

Delaware County Christian School put on a fun-filled yet endearing production of Curtains, the 2006 murder-mystery musical written by Rupert Holmes with music by John Kander and Fred Ebb. The colorful show brought the audience on a heartfelt journey jam-packed with wonderful vocals and striking comedic moments.

Curtains tells the story of the cast of a new musical, Robbin’ Hood!, at Boston’s Colonial Theatre in 1959. When the subpar star of the show mysteriously dies on stage, the company is launched into an investigation that tests their talent and determination.

The ensemble of Curtains did a good job portraying the tired yet determined chorus of the show within the show. They displayed their talents in every dance number, creating a well-prepared spectacle. As the energy of the characters grew throughout the show, so did that of the ensemble.

Nic Fanelli-Salazar led the cast as Lieutenant Frank Cioffi, the cheery detective with an interest in musical theater. His comedic acting stayed strong throughout the performance, and he brought up the energy of the characters around him. Alongside him was Cassandra Stinger as Niki Harris, the Lieutenant’s sweet and optimistic confidante whose vocals and acting were a bright spot throughout. Noah Dutton as Aaron Fox and Taylor Pendleton as Georgia Hendricks did spectacular jobs portraying a strained musical partnership that is put to the test by the unexpected events of the show. Claire Liu’s vocals and dedication shone as Carmen Bernstein, the business-minded producer of the show, and Luke Bradley gave an impressive performance as the director, Christopher Belling. His flawless comedic timing kept the audience engaged throughout each scene.

The show featured an endearing performance by Sadie Serfass as Bambi, a young dancer who is trying to start her career despite criticism from her mother, Carmen Bernstein. Serfass displayed power and poise in her dancing that uplifted every group number. Trinity Hobaugh as Joannie Harmon, the stage manager, and Sam Robertson as Bobby Pepper, the co-star of Robbin’ Hood!, were endearing and engaging characters in every scene. Seth Nelaturi gave a comedic performance as Oscar Shapiro, the grumpy investor. The three featured chorus girls, Roberta (Annika Callan), Mona (Lily Rose Spicer), and Marjorie (Sophia Dixon) were a well-balanced trio in their harmonies and acting.

Delaware County Christian School’s stage crew did a fantastic job bringing the colorful world to life. The DC Set Crew created sturdy and shining backgrounds that grounded each number. The lighting design, done by Bryce Cooper, was always perfectly timed and brought out the intended tone of every scene. The DC Aerials Team did a wonderful job creating a dependable flying system for the multiple special effects that dropped from the sky, and Cassandra Stinger’s choreography was tight and well-performed by each cast member.

Delaware County Christian School put on a wonderful production of Curtains that stayed cheery and lighthearted throughout thanks to the commitment of their talented cast and crew.

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Review submitted by Maya Shah of Conestoga High School

A whirlwind musical filled with equal parts mystery and comedy, Delaware County Christian School’s production of Curtains was truly “A Tough Act to Follow”.

Set in 1959, Curtains follows members of Boston Colonial Theatre as they open their own performance of Robbin’ Hood. After the mysterious murder of the production’s leading lady Jessica Cranshaw, the cast finds itself under the scrutiny of Lieutenant Frank Cioffi. As he furthers his investigation, more mischief unfolds in a combination of hilarity and suspense, ultimately creating the 2007 Broadway musical that is Curtains.

Overall DC’s production was a collection of dynamic characters that built authentic chemistry throughout the story. Both the production’s set and tech were well-utilized to highlight the numerous extravagant numbers throughout the musical. Multiple songs also featured student choreography that livened the stage, bringing energy and artistry to the production.

The show’s leads were essential in driving the story forward. Lieutenant Frank Cioffi played by Nic Fanelli-Salazar masterfully led the audience through the ins and outs of his investigation with his smooth delivery of important dialogue. Claire Liu gave a standout performance as Carmen Bernstein, bringing power to both her vocals and stage presence to convey the confidence of her character.

While the mystery developed, the supporting cast played a key role in building its suspense. Cassandra Stinger’s performance as Niki Harris was sweet and genuine, leaving the audience guessing her character’s true intentions. Luke Bradley as Christopher Belling carried the show’s humor with poise, never failing to draw laughs from the crowd. Sadie Serfass brought skilled dancing to her role as Bambi Bernet, adding to the already quality choreography of important numbers.

As both members of the company and suspects of murder, the DC ensemble was highly visible throughout the production. Their vocals and dancing contributed notable energy to numbers such as “Kansasland”, bringing a certain grandeur to the production’s principal scenes.

The production’s lighting was one of its most impressive features. From vibrant colors to dramatic spotlights, the lighting accentuated crucial plot points and highlighted the cast’s work. When combined with the various sets—each built uniquely to portray the story’s urban setting—the audience was truly transported into the world of 1950s Boston.

All in all, Delaware County Christian School’s production of Curtains was an impressive display of student work. From its near-professional lighting to the endearing chemistry of its characters, the “Show People” at DCCS have something to be proud of.

Ride the Cyclone – Friends’ Central School

Photo by Jay Gorodetzer

Ride the Cyclone by Friends’ Central School in Wynnewood, PA

March 13, 2024

Review submitted by Harry Donnelly of Cardinal O’Hara High School

“What the World Needs” is to see Friends’ Central School’s production of Ride the Cyclone!

Written in 2008 by Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell, Ride the Cyclone features six passengers of a roller coaster who are sent into limbo after the roller coaster derails and kills them. They are greeted by a fortune teller who is able to bring one of them back to life. The victims then must compete against each other through musical numbers to convince the fortune teller why they should be brought back to life.

Friends’ Central School did an excellent job with their production! From vibrant vocals to stunning sets, the show truly was an exciting ride. A noteworthy aspect of the show was the choreography done by Monica Taylor and Elijah Teel. Numbers such as “The Ballad of Jane Doe” and “Noel’s Lament” were filled with spectacular and passionate movements by every member of the cast.

At the front of this musical ride was the pair of best friends for life; the egocentric Ocean O’Connell Rosenburg (Dalija Interlandi) and the unfortunate pushover Constance Blackwood (Olwyn Palumbos). Interlandi was certainly able to embody Ocean’s eccentric behavior, especially in her narcissistic and fierce song “What the World Needs”, in which Ocean proceeded to put down her peers and raise herself high above them. As for Palumbos, their deep and heartfelt speech right before the upbeat and lively song “Sugar Cloud” was incredibly well-paced and solemn. As for the song itself, it was absolutely astonishing with its rhythm-and-blues feel and an unexpected recorder solo!

Of course, the rest of the Saint Cassian Chamber Choir needs to be mentioned. Noel Gruber (Azaria Sifontis) killed with the dramatic lament while sweeping across the stage in glorious motion and belting deep from the heart. “Jane Doe” (Hannah Seidel-Nini) stole the show, as her stiff, living-doll movements switched into an operatic ballad with notes hit higher than the roller coaster itself. Mischa Bachinski (Elijah Teel) adeptly displayed the instantaneous switch between the Ukrainian’s two emotions: rage and passion. Ricky Potts (Sophia Sigel) was out-of-this-world with his stellar dancing and audacious manner.

The crew behind the curtain was also notable. The projection of the photos of the kids, as well as Talia, was very clear. The set of the production was also very talented, as it was a stage on the stage. Friends’ Central also had an orchestra to accompany the actors, and it sounded beautiful.

The entire production was very put-together and well done, by every member. Congratulations to the entire cast and crew, and be sure to Ride the Cyclone!

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Review submitted by Jack McCullough of Harriton High School

Step right up and take a ride… if you dare! At Friends’ Central School’s Ride The Cyclone, it was a story of second chances and human connection, mixed with just a dash of space cats and French new wave cinema. All aboard!

Written by Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell, Ride the Cyclone tells the story of a high school choir from a small Canadian town, who, after a catastrophic failure on a roller coaster, are flung to their untimely deaths. The group awakens in a state of limbo, and soon, they find themselves in competition with each other for the ultimate prize: a second chance at life. With a hilariously witty book, incredibly catchy songs, and a shockingly introspective main story, Ride the Cyclone is theatre at its best.

One of Cyclone’s best aspects is its blending of music genres to establish personalities for each choir member. Whether it be pop, autotuned hip hop, or a full-on operatic ballad, each song requires huge shifts in tone and sound, and no group was more essential to achieving this effect than Friends’ Central’s “Spirit of the Carnival” ensemble. Effortlessly shifting wardrobe, vocals, and choreography from moment to moment, the ensemble was an invaluable component in Cyclone’s success.

As both the emotional core of the show and some of the funniest characters, Dalija Interlandi (Ocean) and Olwyn Palumbos (Constance) were equal parts hilarious and touching. The overbearing formality that Interlandi brought to her role mixed perfectly with Palumbos’ closed off, but occasionally bombastic performance, cementing the two as a highly entertaining duo. Even more commendable was the emotional depth that both actors displayed, accurately portraying the shift in their relationship from one of toxicity to true friendship.

Rounding out the cast were Azaria Sifontis (Noel), Elijah Teel (Mischa), Sophia Sigel (Ricky), and Hannah Seidel-Nini (Jane Doe), the other members of the choir. As a collective, the group had great back-and-forth, their unique personalities bouncing off each other in natural, interesting ways. Their individual songs also served to further characterize them, with standout song “Noel’s Lament” being particularly amazing thanks to Sifontis’s bombshell performance.

Friends’ Central’s set, designed by Ona Stocovaz and Violet Kenny, combined stylish minimalism with carnival-esque flourishes to capture the liminality of Cyclone’s limbo-like setting. Even more innovative was the decision for the orchestra to be incorporated into the set, sitting in a box draped with semi-translucent curtains which doubled as projector screens. Through their excellent design choices, Stocovaz and Kenny set the tone for the show as soon as the lights came up.

Ride the Cyclone, living up to its name, was an emotional thrill ride, delivering laughs, tears, and beautiful commentary on the nature of life itself. Encore!

Matilda the Musical- Archmere Academy

Matilda the Musical by Archmere Academy in Claymont, DE

March 6, 2024

Review submitted by Olivia Lee of Harriton High School

Sometimes they may be a little bit naughty, but Archmere Academy embraced Matilda the Musical with childlike cheek that is guaranteed to get you grinning!

Matilda the Musical is a musical based off of Roald Dahl’s Matilda, written by Dennis Kelly and composed by Tim Minchin. Matilda is an extraordinary little girl in every sense of the word – a genius able to read before ever going to school. While her abusive parents fail to recognize this, Matilda’s teacher, Miss Honey, does, and the two go on an epic conquest of revenge against her parents and the evil headmistress, Miss Trunchbull.

Archmere Academy was brimming with talent from all sides. Maggie Shelton played Matilda with incredible stamina and stable vocals. Her singing, paired with Jack Maister’s as the Escapologist, made for a heartrending duet in “Acrobat Story IV (I’m Here).” But perhaps the most stunning singer of all was Bridget McNamara as Miss Honey – McNamara performed with her incredible technique shining in her operatic vibrato and crystal-clear diction, yet never neglected in-character facial expressions. Her emotion in “My House” was especially raw and beautifully poignant. The cause of her sorrow, Miss Trunchbull, was played brilliantly by Jack Roarty, whose hilarious mannerisms and immersive acting very nearly stole the show! Rarely was the audience not howling with laughter when Roarty was on stage, especially when he pulled a child-hurling stunt with a large mannequin.

The rest of the cast and ensemble displayed lots of talent as well. Brianna Cubbler’s (Mrs. Wormwood) powerful vocals shone in “Loud,” while her dance partner, Sam Wahl, got the audience laughing in his role as the suave Rudolpho. Playing Mrs. Wormwood’s husband Mr. Wormwood, Jonah Tonn won over the theater with his seamless banter with the audience during the intermission carrying into “All I Know.” Whether roasting bookworms or promoting television, Tonn was always equipped with a witty comeback. Among the school children, Caileigh Crane (Bruce) stood out with their charismatic cake-eating performance in “Bruce” and fancy riffs in “Revolting Children.”

The production crew at Archmere was by no means short on talent, either. Sound was executed practically flawlessly, an impressive feat for Henry Bellace controlling thirty-three mics and a live pit orchestra! The set was innovative, with a set of staircases used like puzzle pieces to form classrooms, sheds, and circus rings. Not to mention the publicity – so much dedication and passion were put even into the advertising, and Bridget McNamara’s program cover design perfectly captured the essence of the show with ominous silhouettes in shades of purple.

Archmere Academy’s production of Matilda the Musical will certainly leave you with a childlike sense of wonder at their talent, passion, and miraculous sense of humor!

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Review submitted by Mae Londergan of Harriton High School

“The Burning Woman, Hurling Through the Air, with Dynamite in Her Hair, Over Sharks and Spiky Objects, Caught by the Man Locked in a Cage” is quite the feat, and so was Archmere Academy’s production of Matilda.

Matilda the Musical, based on the book by Roald Dahl, follows the titular character, a brilliant little girl, through her first year of school and her difficult home life with a family who never understood her. At school, she finds a family among new friends, develops superpowers, and fights back against the cruel regime of the headmistress, The Trunchbull.

The Trunchbull was played by Jack Roarty, who owned the stage every time he was on it with the headmistress’s full aggression, striking fear into the hearts of the school kids. His vocals in “The Smell of Rebellion” were impressive, adding greatly to an already fun number. Trunchbull’s niece, Miss Honey, Matilda’s teacher and mother-figure, is written to be the emotional heart of Matilda, and Bridget McNamara absolutely was that. Her voice was lovely, and all of her songs, especially “My House,” conveyed Miss Honey’s quiet strength exceptionally well. Maggie Shelton, who played Matilda, did a great job at capturing her precocious nature, making her a sympathetic main character that the audience rooted for throughout the show. 

Brianna Cubbler did a fantastic job as Mrs. Wormwood, both singing and dancing very well in “Loud,” leading the ensemble in making it one of the most fun songs in the show. Sam Wahl’s Rudolpho acted as comic relief, with ridiculous dance moves and general silliness that elicited laughs from the audience and stole the show every time he was onstage. Right after intermission, Jonah Tonn’s Mr. Wormwood took over for a bit of crowd work, roasting crowd members for reading books as an introduction to “All I Know.” And while it was a good introduction to the song, it was also a memorable part of the show, unique to this production.

The ensemble is an integral part of Matilda, and they did a great job: they all had energy in every song, dancing and singing and even doing synchronized exercises for “The Smell of Rebellion.” They also made good use of their props, especially in “Bruce” with the giant chocolate cake and when The Trunchbull threw the Amanda Thripp dummy across the stage – that one got a much-deserved laugh from the audience. All of those awesome ensemble members were mic’ed, and all thirty-three mics were run by one student, Henry Bellace, so kudos to him for the near-perfect sound throughout the show!

It must be said that “Bambinatum est Magittum” (children are maggots), but maybe not the Archmere Academy students, because they put on a great show!

Mean Girls – Strath Haven High School

Mean Girls by Strath Haven High School in Wallingford, PA

Photo by Charlotte Horetsky

February 28, 2024

Review submitted by Keeva McNally of Interboro High School

Seriously, whose production is this? It’s Strath Haven High School’s production of Mean Girls: High School Version! Not seeing this show would be like not wearing pink on Wednesday!

Mean Girls: High School Version, an adaptation of Mean Girls the Musical, is written by Tina Fey and composed by Jeff Richmond and Nell Benjamin. The musical follows Cady Heron’s transition from being homeschooled in Africa to the antithesis of an American public high school. The show highlights Cady’s interactions with the self-proclaimed “mean girls” of the school. Cady changes into the superficial girl she once didn’t understand. Through many hardships, she regains her original, unique personality from the beginning of the show.

While many people shined brighter than plastic and glitter, Cady Heron (Josie Tolson) shined especially brightly. Her bright, controlled vocals sent shivers down the audience’s spine. Her performance of “I See Stars” was emotional and uplifting. Janis Sarkisian (Eli Graves) was another bright star. His angsty acting and marvelous comedic timing made for a gratifying performance. Graves’ vocals were also excellent, putting everyone in a trance during “Someone Gets Hurt (Reprise)”. On the flip side, he had an inspirational effect on the audience during “I’d Rather Be Me.”

A fearless performance that stood out was that of Gretchen Wieners (Brianne Caldwell). Her dancing and acting were awesome, but her vocals were so totally fetched! There was not a dry eye in the audience during her performance of “What’s Wrong with Me?”. She had such a gentle yet passionate feeling behind her voice. Another remarkable performance was from Paige Trout, playing both Ms. Norbury and Mrs. George. She grasped both roles with both hands and stunned the audience with her motherly acting. Trout’s performance in “Do This Thing” was definitely noteworthy. The ensemble as a whole lacked energy, but the cast beautifully executed the dances with ease. Generally, the harmonies were heard and added another layer of intensity to the already intense show.

Strath Haven’s set was beautifully designed, with extreme attention to detail with notes in the bathroom stall to details on Regina’s bed. The stage crew worked swiftly with the large set and made quick set changes with little to no noticeable pauses between scenes. The stage crew also stunned the audience with surprise papers from the ceiling during “World Burn”. While things backstage ran more than smoothly, the sound struggled. However, it did not take away from the integrity of the show. The costumes were another highlight of the show, accurately depicting a modern high school in the United States. Overall, the crew-ran aspects of the show were enjoyable.

So, if I could change the world, I’d make it Halloween – actually, let me start over. If I could change the world, I would make everyone see Strath Haven’s production of Mean Girls: High School Version, and I’d make it Halloween every single day!

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Review submitted by Carly Marcus of Harriton High School

It is devastatingly true that the plastics run North Shore High School, however, talent, skill and unbelievable energy runs Strath Haven High School, as displayed by their captivating production of Mean Girls: High School Version.

Tina Fey’s esteemed musical adaptation of the hit 2000’s movie, Mean Girls, is a cautionary tale of the quintessential high school stereotypes. Both the movie and the musical follow the identical story of a new student, Cady Heron, who has never attended the conventional American High School before. In her journey at North Shore High, Cady faces many conflicts while trying to find where she fits in, ultimately learning important lessons about friendship and identity. 

It is evident that Strath Haven does not lack talented dancers; there was a surplus of skill and energy in numbers such as “Sexy” and “Stop.” The featured female dancers, specifically the captains Jaina Livingstone and Claire Ross, were standouts as they showcased their talent and stayed in-sync, with the music and each other, during their many group numbers.

The leading lady, Josie Tolson, did an excellent job in her portrayal of Cady Heron. The character requires a wide range of acting skills, as she goes from the shy new girl to a ruthless mean girl, and Tolson demonstrated this shift well. Eli Graves concurrently did an excellent job as Janis Sarkisan. His vocals were what really stood out, particularly in his performance of “I’d Rather Be Me.” His energy, mannerisms, and facial expressions were always accurate to the character and matched the emotions in the scene. 

The “Mean Girls” of this musical did not disappoint, as they all tapped into their characters admirably. Brianne Caldwell and Lily Newport (portraying Gretchen Wieners and Karen Smith, respectively) were a necessary comedic duo. Both had their moments of hilarity, specifically Newport in “Sexy,” but also found ways to convey comedy in unconventional scenes, such as in the trust-fall scene towards the end. Julia McLean as Regina George also had stellar vocals, especially during “World Burn.”

The stage crew did an admirable job trying to quickly move things about the stage, including the many large set pieces, which they made the crucial decision of putting on wheels. The sets were impressive, specifically the bathroom stall featured both at the very beginning and end of the show.

The plastics may say that “More is Better,” but it really does not get any better than Strath Haven’s production of Mean Girls: High School Version.

The Addams Family – Bordentown Regional High School

Photo provided by Gen Palmer Photography

The Addams Family by Bordentown Regional High School in Bordentown, NJ

February 28, 2024

Review submitted by Olwyn Palumbos of Friends’ Central School

Full disclosure- the Bordentown Regional High School production of The Addams Family will have you “pulled in a new direction!”

The Addams Family is a musical based on the infamous cartoon characters created by Charles Addams. The story follows the titular family as Wednesday (Atlas Planas-Borgstrom) falls in love with a boy named Lucas (Luke Williams). As their families come together, many trials ensue and set into motion a chaotic night.

Aidan Bramley and Brynn Bowyer showed wonderful chemistry as Gomez and Morticia Addams respectively. Both demonstrated strong vocals and refreshing energy. Bowyer embodied the character of Morticia with a dramatism that fit well with the character. She also displayed incredible dance ability in songs such as “Tango De Amor” with a high kick that left the audience in shock. Bramley exemplified a compassionate father and husband with a mix of both great comedic timing and emotional moments. Specifically in his song, “Happy/Sad” he was able to portray the melancholy demeanor necessary for the number in a genuine, heartfelt way. Along with taking on the difficult role of Gomez, Bramley also designed a beautiful set and many of the props.

Atlas Planas-Borgstrom showed off his immense vocal ability as Wednesday in songs like “Pulled” and “One Normal Night.” His counterpart, Luke Williams as Lucas Beineke, also had strong vocals throughout, making the two a great team. Adam Pollard as Fester portrayed the comedic and endearing character well, specifically in his song, “The Moon and Me.” Sika Brenya as Grandma also showed great comedic talent. Rylie Evans as Alice Beineke gave a powerhouse performance in her song, “Waiting”, through both her vocals and emotion. The ensemble of the Ancestors also stood out, each having their own distinct character from Addams family past, shown by their assortment of costumes from different historical periods.

The BRHS Pit Orchestra played admirably for the duration of the show, balancing very well with the vocals of the actors thanks to sound design by Makayla Coleman and Sal Carr. Tyler Thalhauser’s lighting design helped to tell the story, as well. Aidan Bramley’s set and props were also amazing, complete with stairs leading to a second-floor balcony and pictures of Addams family members scattered around the patterned walls. Overall, the technical aspects of the show were very successful.

Bordentown Regional High School’s production of The Addams Family was not a “normal night”, but in fact, a wonderful night at the theater!

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Review submitted by Talia Rosenfeld of Phoenixville Area High School

If you’re in for a fright, the creepy kooky clan of actors at Bordentown Regional High School will have you laughing and shrieking all night! This weekend, be sure to see their performance of The Addams Family!

The musical follows the iconic Addams Family – originally created by Charles Addams as a cartoon strip in The New Yorker – and their anything but normal ways. The clan consists of Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, Wednesday, Pugsley and Grandma Addams, as well as Lurch the butler. In the musical, the Addams Family calls upon their ancestors, who are forced to stick around and help Wednesday as she attempts to announce her betrothal to Lucas Beineke and introduce his rather normal family to the Addams’ and their ways.

Bordentown’s production featured a strikingly beautiful set which brought the Addams environment to life. The eerie spirit of the Addams was cemented by the Ancestors ensemble and each member’s unique choices. Musical numbers such as “One Normal Night” featured a powerful blend of every cast member’s vocal talent, as well as acting choices that skillfully separated the oddball Addams from the happy-go-lucky Beineke family.

Brynn Bowyer, playing Morticia Addams, truly embodied the menacing Addams spirit in every way. Her dance skills brought the character to life, specifically in the number “Tango De Amour,” in which she demonstrated immense skill and control. Atlas Planas-Borgstrom, playing Wednesday Addams, presented strong and healthy vocals which added to the character’s powerful, angsty spirit. Planas-Borgstrom also created tasteful tension with Lucas Beineke, played by Luke Williams, as they worked together to bring their love to life. Aidan Bramley, playing Gomez Addams, embodied the commanding, head of household spirit, and delivered a moving performance of “Happy/Sad,” in which he displayed the raw emotions of watching his child grow up. Not only did Bramley take on a uniquely challenging role, but he also designed a beautifully complex set! His skill brought the Addams family home to life with attention to detail and use of gothic style architecture.

Lurch, the family’s butler, played by Ryan Haje, brought life to a character that can only grunt by using skillful mannerisms and intonations. He also delivered beautiful vocals with his unsuspected feature in “Move Toward the Darkness.” Sika Brenya’s hilarious portrayal of Grandma illustrated the character’s 102-year-old wise yet amusing spirit. Kavya Gandhi tapped into Pugsley’s childish nature with her endearingly youthful portrayal as the youngest member of the Addams clan. Uncle Fester’s peppy, peculiar spirit was embodied by Adam Pollard and his clever breaking of the fourth wall. The entire ensemble’s ability to work together lent a hand to the creation of the Addams Family aura, specifically by the skill of the “Dancestors.”

The Bordentown Regional High School Pit Orchestra embraced the creepy kooky sound of this show’s unique music, and skillfully created its jazzy, eerie atmosphere. The lighting choices, such as the use of the color red, made the show have a pleasing, methodical flow. The set design was the keystone of this production, with skill and attention to detail displayed by Aidan Bramley’s exquisite creation.

If you’re in for the scary spooky ride of seeing two families, one peculiar and one picture-perfect, come together, be sure to see Bordentown Regional High School’s Production of The Addams Family!

Little Shop of Horrors – Penn Wood High School

Little Shop of Horrors by Penn Wood High School in Lansdowne, PA

February 14, 2024

Review submitted by Talia Rosenfeld of Phoenixville Area High School

This past weekend, the audience was treated to the spirit of local theater and a loving community which came alive at Penn Wood High School. This school’s team of actors beautifully executed a unique combination of terror and comedy with their performance of the musical Little Shop of Horrors.

This unique musical by Howard Ashman and Alan Menkin follows the story of a pitiful florist shop employee, Seymour Krelborn, who raises a plant that needs a little more than water and sunshine. This vicious vegetation insists that it will provide Seymour with fame and fortune, so long as it stays fed… with BLOOD! 

The cast’s incredible, professional sound was held together by “The Urchins,” Ronnette (Erinma Ebo), Chiffon (Samiah Fatokun), and Crystal (Jada Payton). Their ability to project their voices, even through microphone complications, added to the beautiful blend of their angelic vocals in musical numbers such as “Prologue (Little Shop of Horrors).” Erinma Ebo also displayed immense talent in multiple solos throughout the show.

Gabriel Beckett, playing Seymour Krelborn, truly embodied the character though every song and line. His incredible vocal range and talent brought the production to life. Morgan Askew-Green, playing Audrey, exquisitely executed the character’s unique sound, both while singing and speaking. The voice of Audrey II, the plant, done by Idrees Streater, took the audience by storm with a strikingly unique and talented sound. He was able to convey emotion and passion through just a voice, as only the mouth of the plant was seen moving. Streater and Beckett were able to have flawless chemistry with just their vocals, as seen in the song “Feed Me (Git It).”

Charli Rylander (Ms. Mushnik) elegantly portrayed the maturity of her character, specifically in the musical number “Mushnik and Son,” with Gabriel Beckett as Seymour. Emmanuel James, playing Orin Scrivello, as well as multiple other characters, featured immense vocal strength and talent, singing flawlessly, even through a gas mask! The entire ensemble worked together to execute a divine portrayal of this musical’s unique sound.

This show features an unusual challenge which was skillfully taken on by Violet Schleigh, and that is the manipulation of the giant plant! Every aspect, down to the smallest movements, helped to bring the plant to life, as she worked harmoniously with the voice of Audrey II, Idrees Streater. The lighting crew, Eli Faber, Jade Houston, Sasha Miller, and Savannah Samuel, made the most of a limited lighting set, using colorful, flashing lights to intelligently enhance the monstrous plant’s actions, along with dynamic spotlight movements to match the ensemble’s high energy.

If you enjoy a night full of fear and fun, be sure not to miss Penn Wood High School’s admirable production of Little Shop of Horrors!

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Review submitted by Danielle Douglas of Conestoga High School

“Somewhere That’s Green” has a production that must be seen! Penn Wood High School’s production of Little Shop of Horrors was a fantastic comeback into the world of high school theater.

Little Shop of Horrors is a rock musical by Charles B. Griffith, based on the Little Shop of Horrors film. This musical centers on a struggling flower shop that receives a rebirth as a result of the creation of a crazy cannibalistic plant. The cast and crew of Penn Wood High School put on a terrific performance.

The entire ensemble of this horrifically great show did not disappoint! The Urchins delivered with their tight, well-blended, powerful harmonies, which powered through the audience. Erinma Ebo (Ronnette and Urchin) was a phenomenal vocalist who stood out, shining in “Da-Doo” and throughout the show with her smooth riffing.

Gabriel Beckett (Seymour) has an incredible voice and used it perfectly to display his many emotions. Morgan Askew-Green (Audrey) was great, using her voice and acting abilities to bring her character to life. These actors’ talents fully emerged and soared through the audience in their song together, “Suddenly Seymour”.

Idrees Streater, as Audrey II’s voice, brought some serious comedic energy. The timing was on point in addition to his impressively strong vocals. Violet Schleigh, the Audrey II manipulator, completed this character with her comedic, on point movements. The great collaboration of these two cast members allowed for a hilarious performance of “Feed Me (Git It)”.

Let’s not forget the crew! The lighting shined in Act 2, a highlight being the complex lighting reflecting the unknown feelings expressed in “Suddenly Seymour”. Throughout the show, the audio was mostly on point but at times distracting. Despite this, the management was great and was able to work around any mishaps smoothly.

Penn Wood High School’s production of Little Shop of Horrors was incredible. Every actor on stage effectively used their talents to tell this twisted tale. The crew worked well in collaboration, making the stage perfectly represent this little, horrific flower shop. Seriously, no need to keep feeding the out-of-worldly Audrey II; Penn Wood High’s cast and crew are already achieving much success.

Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic – Marple Newtown High School

Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic by Marple Newtown High School in Newtown Square, PA

December 19, 2023

Review submitted by Claire Arnault of Conestoga High School

Marple Newtown High School’s rendition of Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic was an eventful and lively show. Written in 2015 by Matt Cox, Puffs is an energetic comedy that takes the audience on a magical journey.

Puffs takes the audience back to a familiar and nostalgic magical world and focuses on an underrepresented group: the Puffs! The story follows Wayne Hopkins, a boy who just learned he was a wizard, as he navigates his new magical life and tries to make friends. The show is filled with comedic moments and references that the Marple Newtown performers made their own.

The show was greatly uplifted by the energy of the Puff students. The cast’s commitment to their over-the-top roles created a cheery energy that represented the Puffs’ upbeat personalities well and lasted the entire two acts. Every member of the lead cast and ensemble worked together to bring the Puffs to life through palpable joy and camaraderie. 

Kayden Braegger led the cast as Wayne Hopkins, a naïve new wizard who takes the audience on a journey as he discovers his new world. Braegger’s comedic timing was flawless, and his diction was clear. Gage Grace did a wonderful job as the endearing Oliver Rivers, Wayne’s first friend. Kayley Brown provided a comedic performance as Megan Jones, the third in the trio, and a reluctant Puff. Together, the three friends were a touching group that helped to bring the world to life. The two narrators (Teddy Pilko and Margaret Schiller) handled their busy roles with poise. They introduced every “book” within the play and moved the story along through their banter and comedy.

The show featured excellent performances from many other actors, including Roham Shirazi as Cedric, the charismatic Puffs leader. He brought the ensemble together and kept up his charm through the entire show.  J. Finch Fletchley (Cole Grace) and Mr. Voldy (Gabriel Dezzi) provided upbeat comedy in every scene which they appeared. 

Marple Newtown’s stage crew and stage managers (Erin Brangiel and Lyla DeAngelo) handled the tricky show with professionalism. The set was well-built and decorated beautifully, including painted cobblestones and creative portraits hanging in the background. The set included an impressive giant spider that was featured in the final fight scene and wowed the audience. The props crew, led by Tori Bower and Dillan Golbon, created a sturdy scroll that was dropped from the ceiling, showcasing the crew’s expertise.

Marple Newtown put on a cheerful show with Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic that displayed the hard work and commitment of their entire cast and crew.

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Review submitted by Brynleigh Duffy of Upper Dublin High School

An increasingly eventful production at a certain performing arts center, Marple Newtown High School’s Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic was a magical experience not to be missed.

The story of Puffs is Matt Cox’s cleverly written parody of the Harry Potter franchise. This play occurs at the same time as the main franchise, but brings the often-overlooked side characters of the “Puffs” into the spotlight. The Puffs attempt to navigate their seven years at school while learning the art of magic, keeping themselves out of danger, and building friendships that last a lifetime.

Puffs was a production built on the strength of its ensemble as a whole. By nature of the show, it was crucial that the cast was tight-knit and played off of each other successfully, which was evident from the moment this production began. The bonds that the actors had with each other shone through in every scene, emphasizing the message of friendship and loyalty at the show’s core. With an incredibly fast-paced script, the cast did an admirable job of keeping up and moving through every change or “magic” effect seamlessly.

While the ensemble in its entirety was the focus of the show, the leading actors notably helped to drive the piece forward. Kayden Braegger (Wayne Hopkins) was incredibly consistent in his energy, an impressive feat considering the amount of time he was onstage. Similarly, Kayley Brown (Megan Jones) gracefully showed the development of their character throughout the production. To portray an arc that occurs over the course of seven years is no easy task, but these actors stepped up to the challenge, and their efforts paid off in the end.

In addition to the leading actors, many supporting characters stood out in their performances. Toby Walker (Harry) had many comedic moments throughout the production, consistently earning a laugh from the audience despite their brief appearances. Another notable performance came from Roham Shirazi (Cedric), who delivered many of the lines leading up to the final message of the piece. Shirazi perfectly captured this beloved and knowledgeable character, rallying the Puffs together in the moments when they needed it most.

The successes of Marple Newtown’s production could not be fully captured without mentioning the technical aspects of the show. It was clear that a great deal of time and thought had been put into the design of the show, most notably in the set and props. The production included many detailed props, all of which fit right into the magical universe of the show. With only a few minor sound errors, the show ran very smoothly overall.

Puffs was a show filled to the brim with care and thoughtfulness in every aspect, bringing joy to the audience just as the characters would have hoped to.