The cast of All Shook Up rehearses n the CHHS theatre on Friday. Director Jennifer Davies says this is one the more difficult productions the school has ever put on, a testament to the talent the school has to showcase.--News Photo Anna Smith
asmith@medicinehatnews.com
Crescent Heights High School is shaking up the theatre scene with its second musical of the year, packed full of music by the King of Rock and Roll.
Like the previous musical, Beetlejuice Jr., All Shook Up features a double cast, allowing for various different dynamics and casting combinations throughout the full run of the production. The show runs Jan. 28 to Feb. 7, starting at 7 p.m.
This is one of the more difficult shows CHHS has ever put on, says director Jennifer Davies. However, with the sheer number of strong performers present in this year’s high school drama program, it was one of the only shows she felt could adequately showcase the students’ talent in singing and dancing.
The show also features many of the leads from Beetlejuice Jr, allowing for students to connect across grade cohorts and learn from each other throughout rehearsals.
Grade 12 student Madison Pavlovic Yanay, who plays Sylvia and also choreographed the 28 musical numbers in the jukebox musical based around the works of Elvis Presley, says this is definitely one of the more technical shows she’s been in, but a great production to serve as her final show before graduation.
Wyatt Harrington, who plays Chad, is excited for the experience.
“I think it’s gonna be a lot different, not being in as many musicals, not singing with my friends, and my classmates, but I think, I think it’ll be good to experience a new part of life as well. I think theatre taught me a lot,” he said.
He added while it has been a different experience from his previous musicals, the process has been overwhelmingly positive and he is confident they will be ready to put on an exceptional show later this month.
All Shook Up follows a surprise visit from a mysterious guitar-playing roustabout as he helps a 1950s small town to “discover the magic of romance and the power of rock & roll.”
The show is a deeply funny romantic comedy and appropriate for all ages, though some of the jokes may hit best with those already familiar with Presley, says Davies.
“I’m really proud of where we’re at, because this is a difficult show. It’s a huge spectacle, like there’s massive set pieces,” said Davies. “It’s quite complicated. It’s very challenging. We have a live band. It’s a very cool experience for the audience and it’s a really positive experience for my students.”
Tickets are presently on sale for $25 on chhs.thundertix.com. Proceeds from tickets, concession and the accompanying silent auction directly contribute to being able to continue to put on high-production value shows and a strong drama program at CHHS, which creates the professional performers of the future.
“If you’re looking for just something fun to do with your family and your friends. I think the show is kind of perfect,” said Harrington.
