This may be the first time Lantern Theatre Company has tackled Moliere, but one would never know it from their brilliant production of School for Wives, playing at St. Stephen’s Theatre. Director Kathryn Nocero MacMillan and her fantastic cast elicit every laugh in the French playwright’s work and then some. Taking their cue from the piece’s farcical genre and running with it, the company set St. Stephen’s alight with guffaws and belly laughs from beginning to end.

Joanna Liao and Greg Wood.
Photography by Jeffrey Stockbridge.

Theater: Hatboro-Horsham High School
Show: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Seen: April 25, 2008
Submitted: April 27, 2008
Reviewer: Carly Siegler

Eager children huddle around a campfire, as narrators lean in to tell the
ancient tale of Joseph. Enter the singing cowboys, go-go dancers, and
Elvis. That's right, Elvis. Indeed, it becomes clear very early on that
Hatboro-Horsham High School's exhilarating production of Joseph and the
Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is far from your average Sunday School Story.

With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, Joseph
incorporates a wide variety of musical genres, from Country-Western to the
King himself. The musical evolved very much from its shorter original form
of forty years ago to its West End and Broadway premieres in 1973 and 1982,
respectively.

The story follows Joseph, the favorite of Jacob's twelve sons, as he becomes
victim to the envy of his brothers for both his precognitive dreams and the
multicolored coat he receives from his father. The resentful brothers sell
Joseph into slavery in Egypt. There, Joseph is imprisoned after a
misunderstanding involving his master's wife. However, he is soon released
at the request of the Pharaoh, who is having dreams he cannot interpret.
After predicting an impending famine, Joseph becomes something of a hero.
In an ironic twist of events, he is approached on bended-knee by his hungry
brothers, who no longer recognize him. The story ends with redemption on
the brothers' part, forgiveness on Joseph's, and the uplifting message that
"Any Dream Will Do."

From the moment the storytelling commenced, Joey Harrell exuded the
serenity of the dreamer, Joseph. His strong voice was complemented by
excellent articulation. Harrell displayed a wide range of facial
expressions, as Joseph transitioned from buoyancy at his new coat to
heartbreak at being imprisoned in a lovely rendition of "Close Every
Door."

Jimmy Knowles and Megan Weaver were triple-threats, as they sang, danced,
and acted impressively as the narrators. The two complemented each other
nicely, and seemed to have a genuine grasp of the story they were telling.
Ian Vosseler's turn as the Pharaoh, especially in his channeling of Elvis,
was hilarious.

Joseph's brothers were a wonderfully foreboding ensemble as they plotted to
rid themselves of their ambitious brother, but could be equally hilarious in
numbers such as "Those Canaan Days," which included a memorable
French-accented solo by Jeff Walton (Reuben). The wives of Jacob did not
let their sons have all the fun, though, and they commanded the stage with
their expressive body language and retro dance moves.

The large and energetic ensemble moved easily, and except for a few quiet
soloists, sounded wonderful as a whole.

The sound system, run by Elizabeth Peterson and Angela Rio, ran relatively
smoothly, and the "Technicolor" lighting by Jarrett Bruckner was striking.
Sets and props were transitioned easily, and swashed in colorful tapestries
during the finale.

Hatboro-Horsham High School's production of Joseph was dance-in-the-aisle
fun, and with its catchy tunes and optimistic messages, everyone could do
with a little "Joseph All the Time."

by Carly Siegler of Upper Dublin High School

Theater Name: Garnet Valley High School
Show Name: High School Musical
Reviewer: Mary Siki
Opening Night: December 13, 2007
Seen: December 13, 2007
Submitted: December 15, 2007

What happens when stereotypical high school cliques get mixed up? It could only be the events of High School Musical, which Garnet Valley High School went “soaring” into last Saturday night.

Debuting in 2006 as a Disney Channel Original Movie, High School Musical tells the story of Troy Bolton and Gabriella Montez, two high school students whose lives were turned upside down by a karaoke contest on their winter vacations. When they discover they attend the same high school and become friends, they learn to work together to overcome the forces pulling them apart.

Garnet Valley High School’s performance was fastened together by the ensemble numbers. The entire cast possessed a great amount of energy in the company songs, such as “Stick to the Status Quo” and “We’re All in This Together (Reprise).” On a technological note, the lighting set the mood of the show, the most noteworthy example being the clever lighting used during “Cellular Fusion.”

The leads did a good job accurately portraying their roles and were always in character while on stage. The chemistry between Troy and Gabriella (John Petrini and Julie Luzier) and Sharpay and Ryan (Dana McCloskey and Mark Hewlett) showed during their duet numbers and dialogue.

The supporting characters made the show. Sarah DeNight (Taylor) had wonderful energy and both acted and sang well. Liz Guest (Ms. Darbus) was the main comedic act of the show, having great line delivery. She also possessed a good chemistry with the basketball coach Mr. Bolton (Mike DeFlorio) who also had his moments of comedy. Alex Leiser got the audience laughing in his role as Jack Scott, the announcer of East High. Although sometimes the vocals of the individuals were weak, the whole company sounded strong with good harmonies throughout their numbers.

The lighting was well done with the skillful use of spot lights and colors. The sets were simple but effective. They took advantage of the fly space above the stage to create the hanging banners in the gymnasium as well as to create walls for different rooms. However, it was difficult to hear the individual actors and actresses for parts of the show, even though it appeared that they each had a microphone.

Although difficult for any theater group to attempt such a popular show, Garnet Valley High School “got their head in the game” and put in a good effort.

Theater: Ridley High School
Show Title: West Side Story
Seen: April 5,2008
Reviewer: Joseph Denny

New York gangs! Intense fight scenes! Saucy señoritas! What more does a
musical need? Possibly some amazing choreography and superb soloists. Oh
wait! They had that too! Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story took on new
life when performed last weekend by Ridley High School!

Almost everyone claims to have seen or know about West Side Story, where
Shakespeare's star crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet are pulled from rival New
York street gangs. The original performances of this show shocked audiences
with the violence and racial hatred depicted on the stage.

Today, the only thing shocking about Ridley High School’s production was the
level at which it was performed. The literal and figurative leaps and bounds
taken by the cast and crew elevated this production above many others, and
put the well known movie to shame. The intensity the cast embodied is
unparalleled at the high school level, and rare at even at higher levels.
Never before has this reviewer seen a production with such raw power in its
delicate dance of intrigue.

The gangs tear up the stage in choreographed fury. Riff, played by Josh
Wachter, leads the Jets against their rivals, the Sharks, lead by Bernardo
and played by Zack Wolk. In the midst of this bitter hatred and violent
turmoil Maria, played by Brittany Arnao, and Tony, played by Greg Clark,
proclaim their love in incredible vocal performances. With memorable musical
numbers such as “America” and “Gee Officer Krupke” the audience is drawn
completely into this experience of love and loss on the streets of New York
city.

The professional level of the cast was only matched by that of the pit
orchestra, also a student ensemble. Though West Side Story is classified as
a musical tragedy, the real tragedy would be in missing this outstanding
performance.

by Joseph Denny of Msgr. Bonner and Abp. Prendergast Catholic High School

Theater: Haverford Middle School
Show: The Dinosaur Musical
Opens: December 7, 2007
Seen: November 26, 2007
Reviewer: Gary Labowitz
Submitted: November 30, 2007

The Dinosaur Musical will be at Haverford Middle School, 1701 Darby Road, December 7 and 8 at 7:00PM.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to say, “I saw Streisand before she got to Broadway?” Wow! Well, the only way that could happen is if you gave the kid a chance and went to see her before she was a star. High school and college productions give you that chance with other kids. But what about Middle School? Yes, I am suggesting you go to a Haverford Middle School production of a little known property called “The Dinosaur Musical.” Even if your kid isn’t in it!

This is bare-bones theater. No elaborate sets. No spectacular lighting. Just young talent, learning the trade, being entertaining, fun, and touching. The plot is inane and predictable. (It already sounds like most of what’s on TV!) Two groups of dinosaurs are battling for supremacy. We are all pulling for the “nice” dinosaurs, who are understanding and kind and want to make a better inclusive world, rather than the dino-eat-dino “bad” dinosaurs.

The show (new to me) is by Willie and Robert Reale and has some peppy, catchy tunes in it. There is a large chorus fronted by some lead players who, if you are not careful, will steal your heart as they show the way to happiness through diversity. Besides, where else will you find an energetic chorus of cockroaches?

Keep your eye on Alan Newnham, Robbie Cromie, and Sara Nealley so you can say, “I saw him/her before …..” Let’s hope they all continue to test themselves in theater at the next levels.

Holding this massive effort together is Mr. Michael Braverman, and a braver man you won’t find. (Sorry, some things are too good to resist.) He, and his co-director, Michael Armine, are the kind of teachers we want in our schools.

This is an ambitious undertaking for all involved. Give it your support, have fun, and enjoy something new for a change. You may never look at a plate of spaghetti the same way again.

Special Note from Charlie Seymour Jr, Founder of StageMagazineOnline.com:

OK… usually we don't review middle school productions. But Michael Braverman, a Member of our site, is doing extraordinary work with young people. He asked for our help to get some people to advise his students at a dress rehearsal - we did. And having known Michael's work for a few years (I photographed his productions a couple of times), I know first-hand the value he provides each student who gets involved.

If YOU have special groups that you want me to know about, email me at Charlie@StageMagazineOnline.com and tell me about them. We encourage good theater at any level, and are glad we can support any group promoting theater and the actors and crews working in it.

Charlie

Theater: Eastern Camden Regional High School
Show Title: Nickel and Dimed
Opened: November 11, 2007
Seen: November 11, 2007
Reviewer: Megan Falasco
Submitted: November 19, 2007

The cast of Eastern Camden County Regional High School left no audience member shortchanged with their production of Nickel and Dimed. The story of a writer gone working class citizen was staged with great skill and portrayed likewise by an enthusiastic cast.

Theater: Garnet Valley High School
Show Title: High School Musical
Opened: Nov. 8th, 2007
Seen: Nov. 10th 2007
Reviewer: Sarah Radley
Submitted: December 7th, 2007
 

Cheerleaders, jocks, brainiacs, and drama kids, spontaneously break out into song? This is only possible in the world of theater, and in Garnet Valley’s production of High School Musical.

In 2006, the Disney mega-hit movie High School Musical debuted. Instantaneously, people everywhere were singing and dancing to the soundtrack. It’s the story of the relationship between jock, Troy Bolton, and bookworm, Gabriella Montez. The school’s cliques threaten to keep them apart, and to stop them from auditioning for the “winter musicale”. Is it their destiny to perform on stage together or to “Stick to the Status Quo”?

Garnet Valley’s production of High School Musical had a fast tempo, and eye-catching designs. The large ensemble kept you guessing as to where the action would jump next. The cast and crew worked hard to successfully put on an entertaining and feel-good show.

Julie Luzier and John Petrini played Gabriella and Troy. Both provided strong performances, and Julie was a standout vocally. They had a cute, almost awkward, chemistry, often seen between teenagers in high school. Dana McCloskey and Mark Hewlett played Sharpay and Ryan. They had great comedic timing during “Bop to the Top.” Dana played the stuck-up theater snob superbly with over-the-top costumes, expressions, and gestures. The leads were highlighted by a supremely talented ensemble cast

The ensemble cast was a powerful and talented group of performers. Mrs. Darbus is the stereotypical drama teacher, eccentric, passionate, and slightly deranged. Liz Guest’s composure, props, and costumes only added to the hilarious delivery of her lines. She shone when paired with Coach Bolton played by Mike DeFlorio. Every scene they were in together got vivacious laughter from the audience. Sarah DeNight as Taylor provided another solid performance. Her entire performance was fantastic, whether she was part of the ensemble or in a more intimate scene.

The technical crew lead by Eli Horden did a sufficient job. The highlight was the rainbow lighting during many musical numbers. The difficulty level was high because the musical had many different backdrops and locations to set up, as well as several microphones to handle. The crew greatly improved as the show progressed.

Garnet Valley’s High School Musical was a dazzling effort by all involved. The musical kept the key messages and infamous songs from the movie but had many changes so that it could work on stage. The most exciting part of the show was during the finale when the cast invited all the children in the audience to dance and sing their hearts out as “We’re All In This Together” played in the background.

Theater: Sun Valley High School
Show Title: The Wizard of Oz
Seen: April 5, 2008
Reviewer: Mark Hewlett

Audiences were "off to see the wizard" in Sun Valley High School's
production of "The Wizard of Oz."

"The Wizard of Oz" is based off of L. Frank Baum's 1900 novel, The Wonderful
Wizard of Oz, which was most famously made into the 1939 film directed by
Victor Fleming starring Judy Garland as Dorothy. This adaptation has become
a cornerstone of modern pop culture, still known as one of the greatest
movies ever made. The stage adaptation remains very loyal to the film, with
a few alterations and additions along the way.

The classic fantasy tells the tale of Dorothy Gale (Katie Tomeo) and her
journey from her aunt and uncle's Kansas farm, across the mystical and
majestic Land of Oz. Dorothy meets many interesting friends along the way,
including the brainless Scarecrow (Erica Lauser), the heartless Tin Man
(Andrew Kelleher), and the Cowardly Lion (Tyler Campbell).

Sun Valley High School's production was highlighted by the high energy
levels of the entire large cast, which ranged from elementary school
students as the munchkins to middle and high school students as the leads.

Katie Tomeo as Dorothy delivered all of her lines clearly and with
enthusiasm. Erica Lauser, Andrew Kelleher, and Tyler Campbell each fit the
roles of the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion respectively. All three
were very entertaining with their humorous portrayals and fantastic physical
comedy, rounding out the lead ensemble nicely.

Liz Kretschmer was very amusing as the cackling villain of the story, the
Wicked Witch of the West. Her nemesis Glinda, played by Danielle Japhet,
had a pleasant voice and was very believable. One of the highlights of the
musical was the ensemble made up by Andrew Taylor, Sean Cox, Nick Hickey,
and Erich Bigas as the Trees, which inhabited the forest of Oz. Every time
that they appeared on stage, they were guaranteed to have the audience
laughing.

Both sound and lighting were very consistent and effective throughout the
musical and there were never any major instances where either of them
failed. The set, while not overly elaborate, achieved its job of
transporting the audience into the mystical Land of Oz. The use of the
projection and pull-down screen at various points in the story was very
successful and creative.

Overall, Sun Valley High School's production of "The Wizard of Oz" was
entertaining for people of all ages, some who grew up with the classic
story, and others who were just introduced to it.

by Mark Hewlett of Garnet Valley High School

Theater: Garnet Valley High School
Show Title: High School
Opened: November 8, 2007
Seen: November 10, 2007
Reviewer: Sarah Moore
Submitted: December 7. 2007

The jocks, brainiacs, rebels, cheerleaders and drama geeks were soarin’ and flyin’ this weekend at Garnet Valley High School’s production of the hit Disney movie, High School Musical. This hit movie premiered on Disney Channel in January of 2006, and the overwhelming response has since spawned a movie sequel and ice show.

On the first day after winter break at East High, Troy Bolton (played with ease by John Petrini) finds out that Gabriella Montez (Julie Luzier), whom he’d met over winter break, has transferred to East High. Gabriella is the only one who knows this basketball star’s hidden talent of singing. When the two decide to audition for the school musical, the diva duo of Sharpay and Ryan Evans (Dana McCloskey and Mark Hewlett) plot to do all they can to keep Troy and Gabriella away from their show. Troy and Gabriella’s respective cliques also don’t like the idea of the two in the musical, and encourage them to ‘stick to what you know’. McCloskey and Hewlett showed great brother/sister chemistry in their fun dance number of “Bop to the Top”, and Luzier’s fantastic voice blended beautifully with Petrini’s in their endearing duet of “When There Was Me and You”.

This production of High School Musical was also anchored by great supporting performances. Liz Guest played drama teacher Mrs. Darbus with fabulous stage presence and perfect comedic timing, and had wonderful chemistry with Coach Bolton (Mike DeFlorio). They were able to create the perfect tension between the basketball coach who wants a championship and the seriously dedicated musical director. Friend of Gabriella and fellow brainiac Taylor (Sarah DeNight) was a standout, as well, in her chemistry with the jocks and strong vocals. Zeke (Tony Cedrone), Chad (Jordan Parenti) and Jack (Alex Leiser) were also strong comic actors in this production.

The ensemble tied the production together with their infectious enthusiasm and distinctive characterizations. The separate cliques kept their own personalities but were able to work as a team in group musical numbers like “Stick to the Status Quo” and finale number “We’re All in This Together”. The ensemble also brought great energy to the choreography. These musical numbers were also highlighted with impressive lighting effects and attractive sets, chiefly led by Eli Horden.

The most admirable aspect of this production was that it was everything the audience expected from the movie, and the cast and crew added their own style to it. And after all, what’s not to love about a show where basketball players break into song?

Theater: Plymouth-Whitemarsh High School
Show: Les Miserables
Seen: March 8, 2008
Reviewer: Charlotte Fieldcamp
Submitted: March 9, 2008

Les Misérables represents many things: hardship, human suffering and the cry
for justice. It represents the promise of revolution and the sacrifice that
inevitably follows the battle for freedom. But most of all, Les Misérables
stands for love, be it romantic, filial, or love for one’s country. Plymouth
Whitemarsh High School recently presented the legendary musical.

Les Misérables opened in September 1981 at the Palais des Sports in Paris.
Although it did not achieve success until the English version debuted on
October 8, 1985, it quickly gained popularity through word-of-mouth. The
original Broadway production began its run on March 12, 1987. It was
nominated for twelve Tony Awards and won eight — including those for Best
Musical and Best Original Score. The musical, which is based on Victor
Hugo’s novel of the same name, follows the life of a convict named Jean
Valjean who skips parole, yet becomes honorable and charitable after being
released from prison. But his unsavory past and the relentless pursuit of
the Inspector, Javert, are forever on his heels.

Plymouth Whitemarsh High School’s production found its strength mainly in
its vibrant ensemble and a few standout voices among the leads. Some numbers
were particularly memorable because of the vibrancy of the ensemble.

Dave Meashey performed well in the role of Jean Valjean. He was completely
submerged into his character, expressing himself with the passion and
conviction. A.J. Harnak’s Javert provided a good counter to Meashey’s
Valjean. John Matkowski, who played the student Marius, was a joy to watch
and hear. Matkowski portrayed Marius’s feelings for Cosette perfectly with
a lovely voice. Kristin Dale and Jill Schwab were equally enchanting as
Cosette and Éponine.

The dynamic interaction between Kevin Minehan and Lexie Tabachnick brought
the Thénardiers to life with hilarious results, and Vivian Altopp was a fine
Young Cosette whose striking performance of “Castle on a Cloud” will not be
forgotten by this reviewer.

Several of the problems this production faced concerned the sound quality.
Sometimes words were cut off or garbled, and while technical troubles are
never easily avoided in a high school show, this production suffered from
too many of them.

Overall, Plymouth Whitemarsh’s take on Les Misérables was a good one. Some
of the leads had difficulty hitting the high notes, but they persevered and
managed very well. Due to their admirable efforts, the entire cast got a
well-deserved standing ovation at the end of the show.

by Charlotte Fieldcamp of Lower Moreland High School