19th Annual Cappies Gala – Upper Darby High School

The 19th Annual Cappies Gala was held at Upper Darby High School on Sunday June 1st. Cappies critics, performers and presenters came out in their finest attire to celebrate high school theatre and to see who would take home the coveted Cappies Awards for the 2024-2025 season.  Twenty-seven schools participated this season, and the afternoon was filled with drama, cheers, performances, and touching and poignant acceptance speeches.

The most crucial part of the Cappies program is the student critics.  Each school chooses three to six students who travel to schools across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware to watch shows, write reviews, and nominate performers and crews for Cappies nomination consideration.  The top reviews are posted here on this blog.  This year, Danity Pike (Episcopal Academy – 9th/10th grade), Brynn Bowyer (Bordentown Regional High School – 11th Grade), and Jack McCullough (Harriton High School – 12th grade) received the top critics honors for their grade level.  Harriton High School took home the Cappies Award for Outstanding Critics Team!

For performance categories, one show took center spotlight!   Upper Darby High School took home nine Cappies awards for their powerful production of Sweeney Todd, including earning the Cappies for Outstanding Musical, Lead Actor in a Male Role in a Musical (Josiah Marker) and Lead Actor in a Female Role in a Musical (Kalia Hayman-Brown). The host school also took the Cappies award for Song (“Finale Ultimo”). Haverford High School and Sun Valley High School with their competing productions of The Spongebob Musical took home five and four Cappies respectively. Haverford took home the Cappies for Stage Management, Stage Crew and Dance Ensemble. Sun Valley took home the awards for Supporting Actor in a Male Role in a Musical (Gabe Palmarini) and Comic Actor in a Male Role in a Musical (Jonathan Michael). The Cappies for Outstanding Play this year went to Conestoga High School’s production of the Jane Austen classic Sense and Sensibility. The show also received the award for Lead Actor in a Female Role in a Play (Emma Arrunda). Upper Dublin High School’s production of Twelfth Night took home three awards including Supporting Actor in a Male and Female Role in a Play (Declan McGonagle and Maisie Williams).

Another special award was given by the Casey Feldman Foundation.  Casey was a critic and Cappies Award winner who was tragically killed in the summer of 2009 by a distracted driver.  Every year, the Foundation gives a scholarship to a Cappies program student who embraces the spirit of theatre and community that Casey embodied.  This year’s deserving recipient was Isabella Napoliello from Interboro High School. 

The complete list of nominees and winners can be found here.

2024-2025 Cappies Nominations and Recipients

Congratulations to performers, tech crews, critics, directors, and support teams!  This was a truly remarkable year of high school theatre!  The Cappies Steering Committee would like to thank everyone who helped with the Gala and who did their part to celebrate high school theatre this year!

CAPPIES NOMINATIONS for 2024- 2025 Announced!

After an amazing year of wonderful performances, the votes have finally been cast for the 2024-2025 Greater Philadelphia Area Cappies Awards!  After twenty-seven schools performed throughout the year starting way back in November, on Sunday April 27th, Cappies critics travelled to Archmere Academy and cast their votes.  The results of the voting are in!

In the Musical categories, Haverford High School, with its production of The Spongebob Musical matched its nomination total from last year with sixteen production nominations, including nine technical nominations and seven performance nominations including a Song nomination for “Not a Loser” to go along with their nomination for overall Musical Production.  Other shows with top honors include: Delaware County Christian Academy’s production of the classic musical Annie, and Upper Darby’s ruthless production of Sweeney Todd both scooped up fourteen nominations including overall Musical Production. Upper Merion Area High School’s Chicago (eleven nominations), and Sun Valley’s production of The Spongebob Musical (six nominations) round out the final two shows for the Musical Production nominees. 

In the Play categories, Conestoga High School’s production of the adaptation of Jane Austin’s Sense and Sensibility racked up the most nominations with eleven, including Lead Actor in a Female Role and Supporting Actor in a Female role along with a nomination for the Overall Play category.  Episcopal Academy’s A Wrinkle in Time and Upper Dublin’s production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night earned ten nominations each, including Overall Play. Strath Haven High School (Harvey) and Pennsylvania Leadership Charter School (Dancing at Lughnasa) are the final two nominees for the Overall Play Award.

For the critic awards, Harriton High School earned five nominations including the Critic Team nomination, and Episcopal Academy received three nominations. Bordentown Regional High School, Phoenixville Area High School and Upper Merion Area High School round out the Critic Team nominations.

See the full list of nominations here –

Cappies Nominations 2024-2025

The 19th Annual Cappies Gala, where the Cappies awards will be presented for all the categories, will be held at Upper Darby Performing Arts Center on Sunday June 1st at 4:30pm. 

So, get out your formal wear and get ready for an amazing night of celebrating high school theatre in the Greater Philadelphia Area!

Iphigenia: Dead/Alive – Abington Friends School

Iphigenia: Dead/Alive by Abington Friends School in Jenkintown, PA

April 16, 2025

Review submitted by Cai Dunne of Friends’ Central School

Gods, kings, betrayal, love—Abington Friends School’s magical reimagining of Iphigenia: Dead/Alive showcased all of this and more.

Iphigenia: Dead/Alive is based on two ancient Greek plays by Euipides: Iphigenia in Aulis and Iphigenia in Tauris. They follow Princess Iphigenia as she is sacrificed to war by her father, King Agamemnon. At the last minute, she is brought up to the temple of Artemis to become a priestess, forced to sacrifice others in exchange for escaping her fate. Chaos ensues as old wounds are reopened and loyalty is tested in this nail-biting tale of love and anger.

As with most Greek plays, Iphigenia: Dead/Alive featured a Greek chorus. The chorus in the first act and the priestesses in the second act were drastically different in their movement and energy, moving from energetic to subdued throughout the show. Their use of paper and other props as instruments, while overstimulating at times, added much-needed intensity to some of the more heated scenes, and all movement was devised by the students. Some actors were a struggle to hear, but the actors did a great job of staying in character and moving the show along.

Leading the cast were Ciera Horn and Anjali Tremblay as Iphigenia in parts one and two, respectively. Horn brought young Iphigenia to life with her soft acting, perfectly capturing the princess’s childhood innocence. In contrast, Tremblay portrayed the older Iphigenia with anger and seriousness, creating a nice contrast between the two.

Two of the biggest standouts in the supporting cast were Ruby Schumm as Clytemnestra and Oliver Peterson as Orestes. Schumm’s raw anger felt so natural, showing a mastery of the text and incredible acting skills. Peterson brought great emotional depth to Orestes, portraying both grief and joy to a tee. Rowan Mannon added great humor to the show as King Thaos, easily breaking the tension of a very serious show.

AFS’s production of this show was nothing short of a creative wonder. Students Nelson Cordón and Anjali Tremblay rewrote the entire second act, completely overhauling the original ending and transforming it into their own story. The second act was also fabulously student-directed by Rowan Mannon and Ruby Schumm. Perhaps one of the most impressive parts of the show was the dozens of student-written songs by Clellan Hirlinger and Jeffery Scott, many of which were performed in the show with music directed by Koby Fallon. The lighting was nothing short of masterful with Axel Oravec hitting every light cue with perfection.

Abington Friend’s production of Iphigenia: Dead/Alive was incredibly impressive with all of its student involvement and will have you on the edge of your seat from lights up to the curtain call.

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Review submitted by Jack McCullough of Harriton High School

It’s questionable whether sailing all the way to Troy just to rescue one person was a worthwhile endeavor, but coming down to Abington Friends School for their fantastic production of Iphigenia: Dead/Alive? That’s a no-brainer!

A combination of two plays by the ancient Greek writer Euripides, with updated language and a tweaked ending courtesy of AFS’s talented students, Iphigenia: Dead/Alive is a fresh and exciting piece, at once a Grecian tragedy and a piece of contemporary, surrealist theatre. The play tells the story of Iphigenia, the daughter of King Agamemnon, who is commanded to offer her as sacrifice if he wants his army to reach the shores of Troy. With this ultimatum, Agamemnon is forced to contemplate whether glory matters to him more than his daughter. With a timeless, compelling plot, and new fresh spins, Iphigenia: Dead/Alive was a drama-filled treat!

Of course, no Greek tragedy would be complete without a Greek Chorus, and the talented ensemble put forward by AFS more than lived up to the title. Individually, each member had unique quirks and dynamics, but their performance as a group was even more commendable, with fantastic unison on their many songs, dances, and stylized movements.

Ciera Horn and Anjali Tremblay, who portrayed Iphigenia in the first and second half of the show respectively, brought rich depth and humanity to a character often relegated to be more of a plot device in the original myth. Particularly interesting were the individual niches the two filled, putting unique spins on the character while maintaining a throughline between their portrayals. Whether it be Horn’s endearing, selfless nature, or Tremblay’s more hardened, angsty tones, Iphigenia was a joy to watch in both her incarnations.

As the conflicted King Agamemnon, Jeffery Scott did a fantastic job at garnering sympathy, while still conveying the reprehensibility of his actions. His performance during Iphigenia’s sacrifice was especially top notch with stellar facial expressions and incredibly realistic body language. Equally incredible was Ruby Schumm as Queen Clytemnestra, who, in her somewhat limited stage time, displayed an acting range worthy of the legendary play she was in. Despite her poetic, lofty language, her delivery made every line feel painfully real, sucking the audience into the reality of a heartbroken mother fighting for her child.

The staging and direction throughout Iphigenia: Dead/Alive was vibrant and fresh, a fact made only more impressive when considering that the entire second half was directed by students, namely the talented duo of Rowan Mannon and Ruby Schumm. Through their vision, the show felt exciting and dynamic all the way though.

Boasting an enduring story with modern twists, and a fantastic cast, Iphigenia: Dead/Alive would be a tragedy to miss!

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella – Ridley High School

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella by Ridley High School in Folsom, PA

April 16, 2025

Review submitted by Serafina Kubersky of Abington Friends School

The clock strikes 7:30, and the Ridley Drama Group brings Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella to life, transforming the Ridley High School Auditorium into a magical world complete with pumpkin carriages, gravity-defying hair, and, of course, glass slippers.

This version of the beloved Disney fairy tale, and a musical adaptation of the 1997 teleplay, follows kind-hearted orphan Cinderella as she yearns for a better life free from the command of her stepmother and stepsisters. She finds this freedom in the crown prince, whom she meets at a royal ball, leaving behind one glass slipper for the prince as she flees at midnight.

Ridley High School brought the grandeur of the storybook tale to the stage with an impressive, sweeping orchestra, magical transformations, and the most adorable puppet mice.

Jamie Elma, as Cinderella, was the epitome of a Disney servant-turned-princess. She demonstrated beautiful emotional dexterity in songs like “In My Own Little Corner (Reprise)” and “Impossible,” blending despair with wistful longing as seamlessly as she blended registers. Michael Geddes melted the hearts of eligible maidens and audience members alike with his charming portrayal of Prince Christopher. His love-at-first-sight with Elma felt authentic and believable, especially during the song “Ten Minutes Ago,” and the two love-birds played off of one another beautifully.

Playing the role of antagonists, the snooty stepmother (Mikayla Martin) and stepsisters Grace (Sarah Wiegand) and Joy (Marin Carroll) tormented Cinderella through both passive and aggressive means. Wiegand and Carroll engaged in friendly sisterly bloodlust, and their chemistry was undeniable during “Sister’s Lament.” Carroll’s not-so-attractive peals of delightful laughter and Wiegand’s anxious itching habit earned the stepsisters plenty of laughter throughout. The ensemble of villagers brought infectious energy to the stage during large numbers like “The Prince is Giving a Ball” and “Gavotte.” They executed large dance scenes flawlessly, and rounded out the illusion of a storybook brought to life.

Backing the talented cast was a fifteen student pit orchestra that provided the music for the entire hour and a half show working off of the original score. They became so seamless with the production that it felt as if they fused with the set itself. Student Sound Engineer Brenna Brydges ensured that the sound was impeccable, no easy feat when dealing with an orchestra. The cast’s volume was maintained throughout the show, and Brydges handled duets and ensemble numbers with grace and precision. While a few cues were slightly delayed, the crew ran the show fluidly, immersing the audience in the story of Cinderella.

As sweet and pleasing as its titular character, Ridley High School’s production of Rodger and Hammerstein’s Cinderella is sure to linger in the hearts of the audience long after the clock strikes twelve.

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Review submitted by Ava Nardi-Fitzgerald of Merion Mercy Academy

Ridley High School’s production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella was an absolutely magical experience that truly brought the classic fairy tale to life. The musical follows the story of a young girl named Cinderella who loses both her mother and father at a very young age and is forced to live with her evil stepmother and two wicked stepsisters. The prince announces that he is hosting a ball, and with the help of her fairy godmother, Cinderella makes her grand entrance. That night, she loses her glass slipper, and the prince sets out to search the town for the maiden. Eventually, he finds Cinderella, and they live happily ever after.

Cinderella’s production featured a vibrant and talented ensemble that truly brought the show to life. When the scrim lifted, it felt as though the audience was transported directly into the classic Disney tale. The show had many awe-inspiring elements, from the makeup to the sound, each contributing to the overall experience.

The standout performance of the night was definitely Jamie Elma who portrayed the title character of Cinderella. From her first scene, she captured the audience’s attention and truly embodied a Disney princess. Elma brought a perfect balance of innocence and strength to her character making it impossible not to root for her. Her voice was equally stunning, and her stage presence brought emotional depth to the role in songs like “In My Own Little Corner.” Her counterpart, Michael Geddes, as Prince Christopher, was equally impressive. He brought a charm to the role that made his connection with Cinderella feel real and genuine.

Savannah Adam, who portrayed the magical Fairy Godmother, was also a standout. She brought a sense of whimsy to this iconic role. Her engaging acting, paired with her gorgeous voice, made for a unique and memorable Fairy Godmother. Then, there was Ryan Cavalieri, who played Lionel, the prince’s royal sidekick. Cavalieri was phenomenal in the role, bringing energy and humor to the show. He led a strong opening with the number “The Prince is Giving a Ball.” Both Adam and Cavalieri were definite forces to be reckoned with on stage.

The tech team deserves a huge shout-out, especially Dulce Falone, the production stage manager. She kept everything running smoothly behind the scenes, ensuring that transitions were flawless and that the show flowed seamlessly. Samantha Cao and Caitlin Pinto, the stage managers, also did an excellent job. The timing of the scene changes, the coordination of props, and the overall pacing of the show were spot-on which allowed the cast to focus on their performances without technical distractions. The stage managers’ organization and leadership were crucial to the show’s success.

Overall, with Ridley’s abundance of talent, it was impossible not to be impressed. Every single cast member gave it their all from the rise of the curtain to the fall. However, none of this would have been possible without the incredible technical team. Cinderella was a phenomenal show that truly felt straight out of a Disney movie.

Chicago: Teen Edition – Upper Merion Area High School

Chicago: Teen Edition by Upper Merion Area High School in King of Prussia, PA

April 9, 2025

Review submitted by Jack McCullough of Harriton High School

Is everybody here? Is everybody ready? Well good, because Upper Merion has arrived, with a production of Chicago: Teen Edition that would be murder to miss!

Since its release in 1975 to instant acclaim, Kander and Ebb’s Chicago has been a staple of American theatre, with a score catchy as fire and a witty book to boot. The plot follows Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, two femme fatales in 1920’s Chicago who find themselves on trial for cold-blooded murder. Their luck changes, however, when slick lawyer Billy Flynn enters the scene, transforming their plight into an opportunity to become the biggest stars their city has ever seen.

For their production, Upper Merion made the inspired choice to plant members of the ensemble in the sides and front of the house, evoking the ambience of a 20’s speakeasy to great effect, due in no small part to the commitment of the performers. Onstage, the ensemble fared even better, dazzling crowds in huge, tightly choreographed numbers like “All That Jazz” and “We Both Reached for the Gun”.

Opening the show was JoEllen Johnson as Velma Kelly, and her staggering stage presence set the tone for what would be an amazing night of theatre. The bite and ferocity she imbued Velma with was instantly attention-catching, but Johnson cleverly sprinkled these sparks of rage between much more subdued, sultry moments, making for a character that was impossible to ignore. Likewise, Emma Menke’s Roxie was an entertaining delight, her seemingly naive exterior complementing her nasty nature and backhanded jabs. Both Johnson and Menke delivered vocal performances that were nothing short of fantastic, especially considering the intense physicality of both parts.

As the quick-witted defense attorney with a tongue of silver and a heart of lead, Weston Potten was electric, his smooth movements and crisp voice suiting a con man like Billy Flynn to a tee. Notable was his performance during Roxie’s trial, which saw him reach exaggerated dramatic heights in his quest to distract the jury from his client’s obvious guilt. Next up was Jaden Haynie as the lovable loser Amos Hart, proving that just because a character is meant to be forgettable, does not mean the performance has to be! With his genuine kindness in a sea of cynicism, and show-stopping rendition of “Mr. Cellophane”, Haynie was an easy audience favorite.

Chicago’s wardrobe, courtesy of Upper Merion’s talented Costume Department, oozed charm, transforming the actors adorning the stage with authentic 20’s fashion, in all of its sequined, frilly glory.

With a star-studded cast, and razzle dazzle bursting from the wings, Upper Merion’s Chicago was far from cellophane-esque: It was unforgettable!

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Review submitted by Danielle Douglas of Conestoga High School.

The Upper Merion Underground Players put on an energetic and spirited production of Chicago: Teen Edition that brought roaring twenties flair and theatrical boldness to the stage.

Set in 1920s Chicago, this iconic musical—written by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse—follows two women, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, who find themselves on death row as they navigate fame, media, and the American legal system. As one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history, Chicago is a demanding and well-known production, but the cast and crew embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and style.

From the opening number to the final bow, the cast maintained consistent energy and focus. The ensemble’s stage presence was strong, and the behind-the-scenes work of the crew ensured a smooth flow between scenes. Transitions were timely and rarely distracted from the action, allowing the story to unfold seamlessly and powerfully.

Both Roxie (Emme Menke) and Velma (JoEllen Johnson) delivered standout performances with powerful vocals and dynamic acting. Their chemistry shone in “My Own Best Friend,” where they balanced vulnerability and strength with ease. Weston Potten, as Billy Flynn, brought fresh energy to the role, making bold acting choices that added charisma and flair, particularly during “Razzle Dazzle.” Jaden Haynie gave a memorable performance as Amos Hart, capturing the character’s nervous charm while delivering a heartfelt and vocally impressive rendition of “Mister Cellophane.”

The Merry Murderesses gave a strong and commanding performance of the iconic “Cell Block Tango,” each bringing depth and unique personality to their solo moments. The use of ensemble members seated at tables and scattered along the sides of the auditorium added a sense of immersive storytelling that made the audience feel like they were part of the show.

Technically, the show was striking. The two-level set and multiple light-up signs created a bold visual aesthetic. Microphone levels were well-balanced, allowing both group numbers and solos to shine, and the lighting cues were sharp, matching musical beats and dramatic moments perfectly.

In conclusion, the Upper Merion Underground Players delivered a captivating and polished production of Chicago: Teen Edition, filled with energy, talent, and theatrical creativity throughout.

Mamma Mia! – Phoenixville Area High School

Mamma Mia! by Phoenixville Area High School in Phoenixville, PA

April 9, 2025

Review submitted by Olivia Lee of Harriton High School

Phoenixville Area High School’s production of Mamma Mia! is sure to get your toes tapping and your spirits lifting!

Mamma Mia!, written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus and featuring songs by ABBA, centers around the mother-daughter relationship of Donna and Sophie Sheridan. All of her life, Sophie’s paternity has been shrouded in mystery;  In hopes of finally finding her father, Sophie invites three of her mother’s old flames to her wedding—all unbeknownst to Donna! The chaos that ensues forces Donna to open her heart and face her memories, and teaches Sophie that family and life are not as strictly defined as she thought.

Co-stars Jay McFalls (Donna) and Kaitlyn Romano (Sophie) brought lots of heart to Phoenixville’s production. Embracing one vocally demanding song after another, McFalls showcased their dynamic voice and natural physicality: their stunning belt shone in “The Winner Takes All” where Donna grapples with the mixture of bittersweet memories and lingering love she has of Sam, one of Sophie’s potential fathers. Along with her own vocal talent, Romano’s high energy and grace stood out during dance numbers, such as her partner dance with Alex Bloom (Sky) during “Lay All Your Love on Me.” Together, McFalls and Romano brought Donna and Sophie’s relationship to life with touching emotion, spotlighting the mixed feelings that growing up gives both parents and children in “Slipping Through My Fingers.”

The rest of Phoenixville’s cast was just as much of a pleasure to watch. Talia Rosenfield embodied the confident and spunky Tanya, sporting some powerful vocals to boot. Her talent was highlighted in “Does Your Mother Know?”, where Tanya brushes off the advances of the young and charismatic Pepper (Cody Sullivan). Playing Sam, Jacob Cahill also boasted impressive vocal talent. In his “S.O.S.” duet with McFalls, Cahill’s sincere portrayal of Sam’s regret was touching.

The work done backstage was the beating heart of Phoenixville’s production, tying everything together beautifully. Whether it was the fluid spinning of sets to shift the scene, the pulsing lights to the pit orchestra’s beat, or the gorgeous student-sourced costumes, the interior of Phoenixville’s theater could have been an island off the coast of Greece itself. Additionally, the large and energetic ensemble brought the show even further to life, emulating a whirling, disorienting party in “Voulez Vous” and bringing the audience to laughter with scuba-gear dances and impressive lifts in “Lay All Your Love on Me.”

How could you resist Phoenixville Area High School’s lovely production of Mamma Mia!

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Review submitted by Olwyn Palumbos of Friends’ Central School

You can dance! You can jive! And you will have the time of your life when seeing Mamma Mia! at Phoenixville Area High School!

Underscored by the popular tunes of the band ABBA, and set on a scenic Greek island, the story follows a young woman named Sophie Sheridan the day before her wedding. In hopes to find her father, she invites three of her mother’s ex-lovers to the island, and chaos ensues as she and her mother, Donna, navigate through a lighthearted whirlwind of warm memories, found family, and most of all, love.

Throughout the show, the large cast of Phoenixville Area High School’s Mamma Mia! brought high energy, resonant vocals, and dynamic acting to the production, creating a fun, lively environment. The ensemble attacked every number with vigor and precision especially shining in songs such as “Money, Money, Money” and “Voulez-Vous”.

Jay McFalls gave an incredible, powerful performance as Donna. Their magnificent vocal prowess stayed strong the entire show, coupling with passionate acting skills to produce a complex, determined character. One highlight of the evening was their emotional rendition of “The Winner Takes It All”, complete with a clear, sonorous belt. Sophie was played by Kaitlyn Romano who executed an animated, vibrant interpretation of her character and displayed lovely, lilting vocals. The two commendably depicted their mother-daughter relationship, and added captivating depth to the show.

The supporting cast heightened the show’s sparkle even more (and not only with their sequined costumes). The Dynamos, Tanya and Rosie, were portrayed wonderfully by Talia Rosenfeld and Lauren Curry. Rosenfeld was consistently magnetic and charismatic, and Curry had great comedic timing throughout. The trio of dads had good chemistry, but each stood out in their own right. Jacob Cahill as Sam exhibited smooth vocals, specifically in “S.O.S.”, while Aidan Charnley as Harry and Alex Upton as Bill both displayed comedic chops, Charnley specifically keeping up an impressive British accent for the entire show.

Tech elements rounded off an already amazing production. Lighting helped to set the mood in scenes such as “Gimme, Gimme, Gimme” and “Voulez-Vous” and added to the disco feel of the show. Scene changes were always quick and effective. Though sound was sometimes unbalanced with the band and the actors onstage, they were often able to push through.

This gleaming production showed so much talent and vitality, making it such a joy to watch. To the cast and crew of Phoenixville Area High School’s Mamma Mia!, “Thank You for the Music!”

Alice by Heart – Archmere Academy

Alice by Heart by Archmere Academy in Claymont, DE

April 9, 2025

Review submitted by Peyton Curry of Cardinal O’Hara High School

It isn’t hard to say hello, but it’s certainly hard to say goodbye. At least, that is the story with Archmere Academy’s production of Alice by Heart!

Written by Steven Sater and Jessie Nelson, Alice by Heart follows a young girl named Alice as she copes with the trauma of life during the London Blitz. When her best friend Alfred is dying of tuberculosis, all she can do is retreat into their beloved storybook The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland. But Alice is reluctant to turn the page, and the characters in the story aren’t too happy about it. Chaos ensues, and Alice must learn to face reality before time runs out.

The cast and crew managed their flamingos, and this production, very well. The cast was abundant in energy, making group numbers like “Do You Think We Think You’re Alice” and “I’ve Shrunk Enough” lively and fun to watch. The crew’s hard work and dedication allowed for sets, props, and costumes that immersed the audience in the curious but wonderful show.

Bridget McNamara took on the role of Alice, never leaving the stage once, and proved she was more than up to the task. From her bird-like vibrato and melodic runs to her powerful belt, McNamara’s adept vocals dominated the show. Playing opposite McNamera as Alfred was Colin Mosley, whose switches between the ill boy and the energized White Rabbit were apparent and seamless. A very unique spin was put on this particular production by personifying the ever important concept of Time. Natalie Skelly played this original role with grace and humor, depicting well the impatient and finite nature of Time.

The Queen of Hearts was played by the absolute vocal powerhouse that is Brianna Cubbler. Her voice captivated the audience in “Isn’t it a Trial” and was easily a highlight of the show. Caileigh Crane as the Cheshire Cat was fierce with her strong vocals and motivated movements giving the character purpose. The Magpie (Annie Shaposky), the Duchess (Caeli McAlonan), and the Caterpillar (Vivian Lehman) were all able to add their own unique bit of hilarity to the story.

The importance of good costumes was not lost on Archmere’s costume team. Their use of different styles, decades, and colors made each character stand out. Time’s costume was particularly clever, as her tutu was designed like a clock, the hands on her leotard changing position each time she came on stage. Her costume also got darker as Alfred got sicker, displaying how rapidly he was running out of time.

In the words of the Cheshire Cat, “It isn’t how much time. It’s how we use the time,” and at Archmere Academy’s Alice by Heart, their time was used very well.

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Review submitted by Mia Charlton of Haverford Senior High School

Sometimes, the most powerful journeys are the ones that happen inside the mind and Archmere Academy’s Alice by Heart took the audience deep into a world of memory, grief, and imagination. This heartfelt production brought stunning vocals, bold acting choices, and emotional depth to a surreal story rooted in hope and escape.

Written by Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik, Alice by Heart reimagines Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland as seen through the eyes of a young girl coping with the trauma of World War II. The show blends Lewis Carroll’s whimsy with haunting emotion, taking place in a London tube station-turned-bomb shelter. As Alice dives into her imagination to escape her grim reality, the lines between fantasy and real life begin to blur.

The production as a whole was powerful, emotional, and visually rich. The ensemble’s commitment helped keep the energy consistent throughout with each performer deeply engaged in their scenes. Though at times the stage became visually crowded, and some moments of dialogue were difficult to track, the heart of the show was never lost. Every scene carried weight and urgency.

Bridget McNamara (Alice) carried the show with grace and vocal strength. Her voice was clear and emotive, guiding the audience with every note. Her acting choices were grounded and sincere, and she led us through Wonderland with vulnerability and conviction. Colin Mosley (Alfred/White Rabbit) gave a moving performance as a young man struggling to hold on. His physicality and subtle changes made his character’s decline feel all too real.

The supporting cast brought bursts of humor, energy, and depth. Annie Shaposky (Magpie/Mock Turtle) and Isabelle Kim (Canary/Mock Mock Turtle) were standouts, vocally and emotionally captivating. Vivian Lehman and Maya Granda as the Caterpillars were a hilarious and dynamic duo, with Lehman especially shining as the first Caterpillar, leaning into the dreamy, dazed persona with expert comedic timing. Caeli McAlonan (Duchess) brought laughter and life to the stage with bold choices and excellent character work.

Brianna Cubbler (Queen of Hearts) was an undeniable standout. Her vocal performance was commanding and impressive, and her acting was nuanced, fierce, and magnetic. Natalie Skelly (Time) moved with elegance, her choreography beautifully communicating the passing of time. The transition in her costume from white to gray to black was a brilliant touch.

Technically, the production was ambitious. Costumes and choreography effectively created a layered world. However, some uneven sound mixing made it difficult to hear certain performers, and spotlight use could have helped focus the action during busy scenes.

Despite a few technical hiccups, Alice by Heart at Archmere Academy was a moving and meaningful production, filled with talent, creativity, and emotional truth. It reminded us that even in the darkest times, imagination can light the way.

The Spongebob Musical – Haverford High School

The Spongebob Musical by Haverford High School in Havertown, PA

March 26, 2025

Review submitted by Christina Flanagan of Merion Mercy Academy

“When The Going Gets Tough,” go see Haverford Drama Club’s production of The SpongeBob Musical!

The SpongeBob Musical is based on the ongoing Nickelodeon TV show SpongeBob SquarePants. It features a completely original plot and a total of twenty songs written and composed by contemporary artists. The show itself follows Bikini Bottom’s descent into madness as its citizens face their probable end due to a predicted volcanic eruption.

The production as a whole was wonderfully zany. The cast and crew took full advantage of the show’s quirks to deliver an original and eccentric performance, accentuating each comedic moment to make the show’s emotional payoff more rewarding.

Leading the cast was Charlotte Hill as SpongeBob. From the way she walked about the stage to the way she said her lines, Hill wholly devoted herself to the role. Her singing was consistent and enjoyable, while her comedic timing was on point.

Supporting Hill was Mikey Gibs (Patrick), Jayshing Goolsby (Sandy), and Leo Sacks (Squidward). Gibs’ performance was delightful. He expertly sang each song, adding his own personal flourishes to the script, such as Elphaba’s riff in “Wicked.” Goolsby, on the other hand, sported a southern accent through each scene and spoke with all the gusto of a girl squirrel who loves science. Leo Sacks, both the talented singer and actor, excelled in his dance break during his song “I’m Not a Loser,” showcasing his aptitude for tap dancing. Some other notable characters were Sebastian Landon as Plankton with his exceptional rapping in “When the Going Gets Tough,” Anna Norton as Pearl with her wonderful riffs and brilliant projection, and those in The Electric Skates (Catherine Birch, Eli Shandler, Lucy Mitsuka) for their skillful heelying.

The set itself was completely student designed and student made. An orchestra of eighteen students plus some others played the entire score, and lighting had a total of ninety-two different cues. Although there were some difficulties with sound balance and hearing characters at times, the sound was generally very dependable. As for the stage crew, sporting black attire and matching black bucket hats, they moved about the stage, acting like their own cast of characters. Moreover, the hair and makeup of each character was on theme, with the team coloring and glittering each character they saw fit. The costume team’s attention to detail with the character Perch Perkins (Nathan Lazo) did not go unnoticed as he looked more disheveled with each passing scene.

Don’t be a loser and watch Haverford Senior High School’s The SpongeBob Musical!

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Review submitted by Jenna Micklos of Upper Dublin High School

Haverford Senior High School’s The Spongebob Musical took the audience on a wonderful adventure into the Bikini Bottom blue! 

The Spongebob Musical follows the beloved characters from the Spongebob Squarepants franchise as they realize that the world as they know it is coming to an end.  Spongebob and his friends have to save the underwater world from a volcano that promises certain doom with several B plots along the way. 

One thing that Spongebob at Haverford does that sticks out is their ensemble.  The whole ensemble for The Spongebob Musical is full of so much energy and excitement in every scene. This show brought the magic of the cartoon to life with their sharp movements and skillful execution of every song.  One song that was a standout piece for the ensemble was “Super Sea-Star Savior” a gospel style song pulled off expertly by the “Sadine Devotees” group.  This show absolutely shined and it was definitely a great part because of their wonderful ensemble.

One Spongey hero that stuck out was Haverford’s SpongeBob, played by Charlotte Hill, who had wonderful energy and animated movement that sold the role of Spongebob.  Hill especially shined in the very end of the show with her performance of “Best Day Ever”. 

Patrick Star, played by Mikey Gibs, brought excellent comedic timing, vocals and chemistry with the other characters.  Gibs did a superb job showing the relationship between himself and Spongebob and Sandy, making a really great dynamic between the three of them.  Sandy Cheeks, played by Jayshing Goolsby, had wonderful stage presence and vocals as Sandy making her really enjoyable to watch.  Squidward Q. Tentacles, played by Leo Sacks, had amazing comedic timing and dazzled in his number “I’m Not a Loser” with his tap dancing solo.

The sound design and lighting design for this show was so immersive and fun.  The lighting was very cohesive with each scene.  During the show, there were several points where there would be earthquakes and the characters would shake and fall – during these moments there would be lighting effects like strobe lights which really tied those parts together.  The sound design during those earthquakes was also really clever and immersive.  Although there were some issues, more often than not microphones would be on and the sound mixing was good. 

Overall, this show was a really fun look into the lives of our beloved Bikini Bottom characters.

Sweeney Todd – Upper Darby High School

Sweeney Todd by Upper Darby High School in Drexel Hill, PA

March 26, 2025

Review submitted by Brynn Bowyer of Bordentown

The skeletal faces of city dwellers stumble by and the air reeks of a putrid, unknown stench. Every day, another face disappears from the crowd, and no individual is safe. This is not hell, but a place far worse… 18th century London. Upper Darby’s Sweeney Todd was not a mere performance, but a psychological nightmare that toyed with the terror of any victim that dared to step inside the theater.

The tale of Sweeney Todd follows a revenge-oriented barber as he aims to rid the world of all who have done him wrong. He takes up residence on Fleet Street, slitting the throats of his victims with his shaving razor. The systematic murder spree is aided by a peculiar pie baker known as Mrs. Lovett who suggests a truly grotesque way to keep her bakery alive with a new secret ingredient.

From the very first moments, the performers had the audience in a chokehold with their distinct movements and disturbingly high vocal ranges. The consistent breaking of the fourth wall made all spectators vulnerable to the horrific occurrences onstage, an equally thrilling and terrifying spectacle.

Josiah Marker had a single quality above all else that made his performance as Sweeney Todd so deeply haunting: his stare. The way his psychotic eyes pierced into the souls of any audience member unfortunate enough fall upon his gaze. Todd’s descent into madness reached its height in “Epiphany”, as his offers of a clean shave sounded more like death threats to the theatergoers involved. Kalia Hayman-Brown matched Marker’s maniacal tendencies, as duets such as “A Little Priest” illuminated their morbid humor and harmonious vocals. Contrary to these two, Sydnie Jaye Meyers became a beacon of serenity as Johanna. With gentle, effortless talent, she sang numbers like “Green Finch and Linnet Bird” to angelic perfection.  

Rarely is a high school ensemble as deeply committed to their show as the students of Upper Darby were. Donning their black Victorian dresses and waistcoats, they slinked through the audience with deadly precision. The number “City on Fire” demonstrated this collective talent the most; Each performer jerked and screamed throughout the aisles, making it one of the most blood-chilling numbers of the night.

Sweeney’s infamous shaving chair was advanced in functionality, with a latch that sent his victims plummeting to their untimely demise. Other props such as the antique razors and Lovett’s piano indulged in the gothic themes of the era. The face makeup on the actors also played into the time period with pronounced cheekbones and dramatic eye bags further deadening their visages.

With a thrilling premise and macabre essence, Upper Darby’s Sweeney Todd will undoubtedly take your breath away… in more ways than one.

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Review submitted by Brenna Brydges of Ridley High School

Upper Darby High School has done it again with Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.

Sweeney Todd, is a macabre score set in Victorian London. A man by the name of Benjamin Barker is sent away to prison for false crimes. He comes back to find his wife dead, and the judge who sent him away holding Barker’s daughter as his ward. Barker, who now goes by Sweeney Todd, sets up a murderous business with pie-maker Mrs. Lovett. Todd will stop at nothing to have Judge Turpin in his chair.

Upper Darby High School entertained a thrilling production of Sweeney Todd. Dark, malicious, and even downright frightening at times, the cast and crew of Sweeney Todd did a fantastic job on this Sondheim classic.

Josiah Marker played the titular role of Sweeney Todd. From the start, his character was well-established, and each action seemed purposeful and thought-out. His voice was strong, and his song, “Epiphany”, was a wonderful glimpse into the mind of a mad man. He commanded attention, and his physicality was absolutely entertaining. Kalia Hayman-Brown, as the eccentric Mrs. Lovett, was terrific. Her voice was a delight to listen to. Her dynamic with Marker was particularly amusing. As evident in the song, “By the Sea”, Mrs. Lovett is clearly besotted with Sweeney Todd. Hayman-Brown’s loving talk of living by the sea with Todd, compared to Marker’s emotionless responses, made for a comedic yet dynamic duo.

Sydnie Jaye Meyers, as Johanna, had an absolutely beautiful voice. Her range in acting was remarkable, and the scene held in the insane asylum was heartbreaking. Kareem Wright, playing The Beadle, was quite the character. He was quick-witted, and the way he moved about the stage and delivered his lines showed that he understood his portrayal of his character deeply; not to mention his comedic abilities. Pirelli, played by Erik Nethan, was another comical character. His feud with Todd was humorous.

The hair and makeup added greatly to the characters and the way they were perceived. Alana Jackson and Amina Peters clearly did their research; each member of the cast was thoroughly frightening to look at. In particular was Sweeney Todd’s makeup, which added greatly to his character of that of a crazed killer. Some lines were a bit hard to hear, but the space was large and the sound team otherwise never missed a cue.

Upper Darby High School’s production of Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is a must see! Just be careful not to end up in one of Mrs. Lovett’s pies!

Legally Blonde – Marple Newton High School

Legally Blonde by Marple Newtown High School in Newtown Square, PA

March 26, 2025

Review submitted by Kiera McCarron of Interboro High School

Omigod, omigod, you guys, Marple Newtown’s production of Legally Blonde was a work of art overflowing with student talent and was an all-over spectacular retelling of a show-stopping musical!

Legally Blonde follows the sorority president of Delta Nu, Elle Woods, through a number of trials and tribulations after heading to Harvard Law School in a desperate attempt to win back her ex-boyfriend. In her time at Harvard, she is faced with constant setbacks in her new academic environment – nothing at all like UCLA. In her pursuit, she finds out the true meaning of being a lawyer: fighting for the good in the world because of, not despite of, the traits that make up who she is. She solves a high-profile murder and finds someone who loves her for who she is, making a number of friends along the way.

The marshal leading the perfectly pink parade was Kayley Brown (Elle Woods) who commanded the stage with positively extraordinary vocal control with breathtaking riffs. Brown truly embodied Elle, expertly revealing the remarkable intelligence below her Malibu-blonde hair as well as her heart’s yearning to represent the innocent. Alongside her was Gage Grace (Emmett Forrest), bringing impressive vocals as well. Worth noting was his admirable reaction to possible prop mishaps, as he handled each instance with a level of professionalism and fluidity – not breaking character in the slightest. The two shared remarkable chemistry with realism and poise, playing off of each other in natural ways that brought constant life to the show.

Alongside them were multiple noteworthy characters within the colorful cast of Legally Blonde, including Vivienne (Eliza Stewart), Paulette (Julia Izzo), and Brooke (Juliana Riberio). Once again, vocals of the cast were immaculate and cast interactions were vivid and consistent. Stewart gave depth to her character through a complex development as she gets to know Elle, discovering more about her own values along the way. Izzo embodied the role of Paulette expertly, and her accent was hypnotic – giving the character a whole new dimension and allowing for full immersion. Riberio impressively sang whilst doing active cardio which is no small feat in the slightest, and one worth at least a dozen standing ovations.

The sets were high in number and even higher in quality. With multiple vertical levels and horizontal depth, the cast could truly explored their characters through movement. Speaking of movement, the physical numbers in the show were downright outstanding, and the use of props within dances added a whole new level of action to the show.

If you thought Marple Newtown’s production of Legally Blonde was good, be Serious. It’s So Much Better! Props to the cast and crew; this show was one to remember!

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Review submitted by Audrey Tresnan of Phoenixville Area High School

Find your way down to Marple Newtown High School’s Legally Blonde!

Written by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin and based off of the 2001 movie of the same name, Legally Blonde follows sorority girl, Elle Woods, who follows her ex-boyfriend, Warner, to Harvard law school in an attempt to win him back. Despite not fitting in with her fellow Harvard students, Elle fights to succeed and stand out among the crowd while remaining true to herself.

Marple Newtown’s Legally Blonde was fueled by the steady energy of the cast in every scene from subdued duet to full-cast dance break. Such maintenance of energy can be hard for a cast of Marple Newtown’s size, but they handled the challenge well by creating clean, well-timed scenes and dance numbers.

The show was anchored by Kayley Brown as Elle Woods and Gage Grace as Emmett Forrest. Brown took on Elle Woods, a notoriously challenging role, with ease. Her powerful vocals and immense stage presence were evident in numbers such as “So Much Better” where she successfully held powerful notes through constant dancing. Similarly, Grace embodied the character of Emmett, effectively providing both a comforting sidekick and comedic relief. He and Brown showed chemistry in their vocal duets such as “Take it Like a Man,” in which their voices complimented each other well. 

One noteworthy performance was that of Julia Izzo as Elle’s hairstylist, Paulette Buonafonte. Izzo impressed with clean, strong vocals, engaging, hilarious acting, and unbeatable confidence evident throughout the performance. Juliana Riberio as exercise mogul Brooke Wyndham excellently displayed skill, especially in “Whipped Into Shape” in which she jumped rope and held her tune successfully, greatly contributing to the energy of the show. Chris Cancellieri’s performance as Nikos Argitakos was consistently comedic from his suave splits to his exaggerated accent. The Delta Nu sisters did an excellent job making challenging choreography clean in songs such as “What You Want” where there were many cast members on stage.

The high energy of the cast was met with an equally energetic stage crew whose quick and efficient scene changes helped to maintain the show’s steady pace. It was evident in each precise and speedy rotation of a wall and placement of a table that the crew, led by stage manager Tiana Nguyen and her team, was well-prepared. Lighting operated by Will Zakos effectively and creatively added to the show’s comedy in scenes such as “Ireland” where the Irish flag was brightly lit and “There Right There” in which a rainbow lit the background.

Safe to say, Marple Newtown High School’s Legally Blonde was seriously successful!