HELLO FROM THE OTHER SIDE
Talented cast’s side-splitting rendition of satirical comedy tackles difficult topics
Show #20: Disenchanted! Where: Merivale High School Director: Cynthia Wood
It can be difficult to poke holes at an icon — especially one as revered as Walt Disney — but in order to tell the truth it is sometimes necessary. In their rendition of Disenchanted! Merivale High School proved that there are always two sides to every story. Written by Dennis T. Giacino, this cabaret-style musical unconventionally follows our favourite Disney princesses. It was hosted by an enchanting ensemble of Snow White, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty. The trio outlined the inherent and systematically oppressive “princess complex” through the personal anecdotes of a multitude of princesses. Empowering women through the satirization of Disney archetypes, Disenchanted! outlines the painful reality of Disney’s objectification of these women, and allows them to finally tell their side of the story.
The production was anchored by the consistency of the threeperson orchestra. Beejan Afkham, Jaeho Jang, and Derrick Zhang impressed with their live instrumentals for each song. Not once did they overpower those on stage — a feat quite difficult to accomplish. Their liveliness, tenacity, and panache made for a truly phenomenal performance.
This ensemble musical was spearheaded by Snow White, Cinderella, and Sleeping Beauty, portrayed respectively by Darcie Watson-Laird, Zoe Carter, and Kate Counsel. The triad had wonderful synergy, which added to their vaudevillian dynamic. Watson-Laird’s blunt sarcasm made for a comical delivery of lines. Contrasting against her authoritative and commanding disposition was Carter, who embodied Cinderella’s sweet and slightly scatterbrained persona skilfully. Bethroned on her wheelchair was Counsel, who snored her way through the characterization of Sleeping Beauty; her soulful performance of Perfect as empowering and poignant, and demonstrated her ability to portray a multi-faceted persona. All three talented actresses showcased their beautiful ranges in various musical numbers, such as One More Happily Ever After.
Sophie Dewar delivered a poignant interpretation of Pocahontas. Her political and timely story was administered with dry, dark humour that juxtaposed many of her fellow actors. Dexter HunterLaroche absolutely encapsulated the (very) German Princess Rapunzel. Never falling out of character, his dedication to the character was evident in his exaggerated physicality and consistent accent. Embracing the farcical nature of his character, HunterLaroche’s energy was infectious. In his hilarious rendition of Not V’One Red Cent, he skilfully interacted with the audience with a high level of expertise.
Costumes, managed by Dis Costume Crew, were effective and accurate to each princess, whilst also remaining practical. Their talents were demonstrated in Snow White’s handcrafted costume, which was adeptly fashioned together.
The modernization of costumes allowed for characterization, and symbolized the growth of the princesses. Sound was manned by Dylan Coffin, who operated it with ease. His timing was spoton, and he never seemed to miss a cue. Kaylee McKellar designed hair and makeup, and executed the fitting styles proficiently. Achieved with ease, it withstood the constant hustle and bustle of the show adequately.
Rejecting Disney’s demeaning tropes, Merivale High School gave a voice to those who have been deemed voiceless. Their empowering rendition of Disenchanted! showcased the beauty of the honesty, illustrated the need for the truth, and elucidated the value of representation.
Show #21: Urinetown: The Musical Where: A.Y. Jackson Secondary School
Director: Ilona Henkelman
What if peeing wasn’t free? What if you had to work extra hours to afford to answer nature’s call? Well, A.Y. Jackson Secondary School’s side-splitting rendition of Urinetown: The Musical certainly served as a reminder to never take that porcelain bowl for granted.
This satirical comedy premiered off-Broadway in 2001. Composed by Mark Holland and written by Greg Kotis, this musical opens on a small town set 20 years in the future, where water shortage and poverty plague the world. A dominating corporation called Urine Good Company has control of all public toilets and they impose the unthinkable; all citizens must pay a fee to pee. After seeing his father get dragged away to Urinetown, Bobby Strong decides that enough is enough, and he starts a revolution.
Right from the opening number, the cast of A.Y. Jackson Secondary School exploded onto the stage with dazzling energy. Despite being fewer in numbers, this talented chorus was definitely not lacking in vocal power, and pulled off stunning notes with ease. Many movements they made were synchronized and extremely fluid, such as a shocked head turn and catchphrases that wonderfully added to the overall comedic effect.
They called for a hero, and Gabe Merino as Bobby Strong answered. Throughout both acts he expertly showed the many layers of his character. Whether it was the powerful heroic stance that he took on while addressing The Poor or his geeky antics around star-crossed lover Hope Cladwell, played by Isabel Kirby, Merino never faltered. His unwavering confidence was the perfect counterpart to Kirby’s sweet disposition. She never strayed from her cheerful demeanour and flawlessly demonstrated her naivety through widened eyes, curious tilts of her head and gently clasped hands. In songs such as Follow Your Heart, their voices intertwined in stunning harmony as both performers reached challenging notes effortlessly.
Off the dirty streets and behind the sealed doors of the posh and sanitary office of Caldwell B. Cladwell, we meet Christopher Hall’s spot-on version of this greedy and money-hungry old man. He demonstrated excellent vocal control. With commanding intonation on every word and wonderful physicality, Hall delivered the perfect captivating villain.
Every story needs an adorable sidekick, and Jahelle Achat as Little Sally filled that role impeccably. She played a convincing young girl by putting on a remarkable high-pitched voice, and carrying a charming curiosity with her throughout the entire show. In the second act, Achat belted out astonishing vocals. The simplicity of Tell Her I Love Her, combined with many chilling notes and her touching sadness, made for a haunting and beautiful number.
The Urinetune Band, pun intended, was a wonderful surprise. Student conductor Lesley-Ann Rowland skilfully led a talented group of young musicians through the twohour-long show. The band played every song smoothly and their superb timing made for flawless scene transitions. Because they were visible to the audience, Ellanore Rughani and Emilee Hendrycks, heads of makeup and hair, made sure that they were in makeup that matched the cast onstage. The Poor had dirt smeared all over their faces and sported messy hair, while the more luxurious UGC Staff donned rouge on their cheeks and had neat, slicked-back buns. Many cast members were in both groups, and so Rachel Snider and Mason Bennett, of stage management, worked hard to ensure that the many quick costume, hair and makeup changes flowed efficiently.
With Urinetown tackling many difficult topics such as capitalism and social injustice, comedic relief was much needed, and the hilarious and talented cast of A.Y. Jackson Secondary School most certainly delivered.