Stars Playhouse invites you along for the ‘Ride’
Word of mouth is so good for “Ride The Cyclone,” a 2008 musical with a strong TikTok following, that its opening weekend is already sold out at Stars Playhouse.
“I knew this show needed to happen now,” director Maya Blackstone wrote in an email. “There was such a rise in popularity on social media and I knew this would be a great show to do in town. It’s so fun and different from any other musical that’s been around lately! I loved how weird it is! Theatre doesn’t have to be one note! Theatre is meant to tell a story, and this story is not like many others. Not to spoil anything but there’s so much that draws you into this show!”
This popularity is aided by a unique plot: A group of Canadian teenagers who tragically perish in a roller coaster accident are given a chance to compete for a second chance at life through a peculiar carnival game hosted by The Amazing Karnak, a mysterious fortune-telling machine.
Lorea Laverty Iturriria, Irving Cortes, Gabriel Abboud, Dillon Nunamaker and Savanna May play the students, who are joined by the mysterious Jane Doe (Chloe Gomez) also killed in the accident.
Blackstone described the show as completely wild, with so many twists and turns, much like that of a roller coaster. It blends theatrical concepts of dark comedy and surrealism, and adds fun elements such as cats, Ukrainian Auto-Tune singers and French cabaret dancers.
“Each musical number in the show is completely different from the last. There’s cabaret numbers, pop, rock, ballads and so much more.”
The spirited show is well-suited for the Rosedale theater that often hosts new plays and musicals that aren’t always done.
“The playhouse is intimate too so it offers a completely different viewing experience for the audience,” Blackstone said. “It immerses you in the show!”
Nolan Long and Molly Jiron (also the show’s choreographer) collaborated with Blackstone on set design, turning the small space into a carnival atmosphere “with swirls and levels and drapes and colors” and a Zoltar-like fortune teller box.
Beyond the bright lights and fun music and dances, the show also has a deeper message,” the director said.
“I hope people are reminded of the importance of embracing the present moment and living life to the fullest. Life is a whirlwind of highs and lows and twists and turns, much like a roller coaster.
“As much as life throws this chaos at us with the uncertainty, tomorrow is never guaranteed and the only moment we have is now. Life is just a ride.”