Adjudicator Highlights from the 2019 production of The
Drowsy Chaperone
Performance
11/23 Saturday 2:30 p.m.
The cast's energy and enthusiasm was wonderful to see.
The comedic timing of the Man in the Chair, and the actor's
relationship to the rest of the action was excellent, the choice to have him
join the actors on stage in favorite moments was lovely and incredibly funny. Experiment with blocking choices that take
action from always being down-center to maintain variety. This cast had the vocals in them to hit those
big notes at the end of songs and phrases but it seemed on occasion they would
stop shy of fully nailing a show stopping note
11/22 Friday 7:30 p.m.
Henry Gifford as The Man in the Chair is perhaps the
top-of-mind reason to see this show. The fact that he could hold the attention
of the entire audience and make us laugh on a one-man show basis speaks to his
strength as a performer. Laura Dibble opposite Chris Higham was another real
pair of standout performances in this show. They were both hilarious on their own
and seeing them play and sing opposite each other was a joy. Merrick Mangan as
George brought a noticeable lift in energy and professionalism when he appeared
on stage in the opening number, and carried it through each time he appeared on
stage.
11/22 Friday 7:30 p.m.
Mr. Gifford's portrayal of the Man in the Chair was an
absolute delight from start to finish. The time he took with each joke and the
intricacies of how he paced the show was bounds beyond what one would expect
from a performer his age. Additionally, he treated nuanced of the character
development with grace and subtlety.
Ms. Ali showcased unique, supported acting choices, and Ms.
Dibble's Chaperone sounded lovely on her songs.
Mr. Higham's Aldolpho felt like a master class in comedic
timing. He thoroughly understood the absurdity of his character and the
circumstances, and was incredibly consistent in his choices. There was no
confusion in who he was or what he was about – perhaps this is what happens
when the part is purposefully written as a racial stereotype, but Mr. Higham
still managed to find the complexity and the variance within this, which shows
he has a true understanding of the style and commitment to comedy.
Something about Mr. Sobolewski's character voice for the
super was utterly charming. It was the only moment when the musical comedy
transcended itself, and it felt like the Man in Chair's world was now a kitschy
musical comedy. Ms. Zakrzwski had a unique challenge that she tackled with
poise.
Ms. Pettit was a delight as Trix.
11/22/Friday 7:30 p.m.
Henry Gifford as Man in the Chair gave a strong performance
as the constant throughout the performance. He guided the audience with his
charm and infectious smile through a wonderful journey. The difficulty in this
role for a teenager is portraying the age; for a young actor, he is well on the
way to building a greater sense of comedic timing.
Zachary Pacuraru as Robert Martin deserves kudos for putting
himself out there and tap dancing with a smile on his face!
Merrick Mangan as George had a great energy on the stage and
made sure to use his minimal lines for memorable moments.
Chris Higham as Adolpho was the comedic standout of the
night. His full use of his voice and body to create the character of Adolpho
was not missed. He commanded the stage and made his presence known. Aden Dubin as Feldzieg gave a very strong
performance. His energy was infectious and his comedic timing was rarely ever
missed.
Marielle Zakrzwski as Mrs. Tottendale had a wonderful charm
to her on stage. Her infectious smile and energy were a joy to watch. Her
consistency with her choice of voice should also be praised.
Sophie Pettit as Trix was a wonderful surprise as a very strong
vocalist. Her infectious smile and great energy were missed throughout the rest
of the show. Nick Sobolewski as The Super gave a standout performance for his
short stage time. His voice and energy provided a wonderful moment on stage.
11/22 7:30 p.m. Friday
This cast was comedy gold! They found the silliest moments
in the show and knocked them out of the park. Each character had a defined
personality and had figured out how they interacted with the other
personalities on the stage.
For example, it would have been interesting to see the
gangsters/pastry chefs and servants interacting in the scene in ways that kept
them true to the characterization they were developing in other scenes.
Underling's neutral expression in the dance numbers is similar to what I am
speaking to here. Short of that, I was truly impressed with the energy and
humor this cast brought on stage.
11/23 2:30 p.m.
The Man in Chair was awesome. I thought that the character
that Gifford created was relatable, and comedic timing was spot on. Even when
he was sitting and observing moments on stage, I could still feel that he was
present. I loved watching him react to events and occurred on stage. I also
liked how he was able to portray the fact that he knows the show, but still
retains the wonder of seeing it for the first time. Gilford was not afraid of
building a relationship with the audience. I felt that I was spending time with
a friend, and Gifford was able to create such a fun experience. I thought
Pacuraru did a great job of creating a 1920's style of a leading man. I thought
his tap solo was outstanding. He had a strong voice, and I could tell he was
having fun from the moment he stepped out on stage. I commend his skills on the
skates. I loved the commercial toothpaste smile.
Ali was such a pleasure to watch on stage. She was playing
up the audience, and I could see how comfortable she was with the role. It was
hilarious seeing her switch quickly between emotions and showing such range
with her acting. She had a strong voice and put expression into every song.
Higham stepped into the role of Adolpho. He used his whole
body and voice to create his character. He was fearless when using his range
for the song Adolpho. I loved the "campiness" he created for the
role, and it worked exceptionally well.
The relationship between Tottendale and Underling was
excellent. They had great timing and worked well off of each other. I loved how
committed to the choices Zakrzwski made with Mrs. Tottendale. I thought she had
a strong voice, and it was beautiful. I felt she and Gifford had this beautiful
moment when she picked up to play the song "As We Stumble Along."
They made this connection, and although it was subtle, it was able to tell a
whole story and create a powerful ending.
Dibble was great. I thought through every song; she kept her
character first. I loved how, in the opening song Fancy Dress and creating
loose and floppy controlled movements. I thought she did a great job during
Stumble Along. I loved how she was able to discover and create moments where
she was allowing the words to come naturally from her.
Some of my favorite moments were when Man in Chair inserted
himself into songs, like the "Bride's Lament." I thought it was an
excellent skill for the two actors to display such contrasting emotions for the
song and not overshadow the other. I think the monkeys had a menacing presence,
but still had an air of hilarity to them.
The bakers during "Toledo Surprise" were funny. I
think that the cast worked well together. I could see the hard work that was
put in by every member of the group. There were one or two moments where some
members of the cast looked a bit unsure about a part. I think being confident
in everything that you do, even if there is a mistake, really helps sell a
piece. I think everyone in the cast did a fantastic job.
11/23 2:30 p.m. Saturday
One of the things that caught my eye was the Drowsy
Chaperone herself. She did a very nice job in her part, but I thought she was
excellent in the ensemble numbers. Her smile and enthusiasm really made her
stand out.
11/23 2:30 p.m. Saturday
This show hinges on the performance of the man in the chair.
If he is not strong the whole show falls apart. I am happy to report that this
was not the case here. The man in the chair was delightful.
His comic timing was great and even when he wasn't the focus
of the scene I kept looking over to see his reactions. He was singing along in
certain spots and was dancing in his seat. He was the best part of this show.
Janet was very strong. I don't want to show off was a
fabulous introduction to this character and she pulled it off effortlessly. She
had great chemistry with every member of the cast and she did a wonderful job.
I also enjoyed the performance by Robert. He did a great
job. His dancing was great and it always makes me nervous when the scene where
he is blind folded and on roller skates, but he did it all with ease. I really
liked his character and was rooting for him to get the girl.
I loved Aldopho. He seemed like he was having a great time
and I could not take my eyes off of him any time he was on stage. He took the
material and really sunk his teeth into it for such a great character part.
EXCELLENT job!
11/23 2:30 p.m. Saturday
From the moment I walked in, I appreciated the opened
curtain that revealed the set before the start of the show. I also liked the
music from the 1920's playing. It set the mood for the show and allowed the
audience to feel as if they were already part of the production. I think your
casting for this show was appropriate. The stand-out actor was clearly Henry
Gifford. The role of "Man in Chair" is not easy as he is responsible
for setting the tone of the show and accountable for engaging the audience throughout
the production. I thought Henry did a great job at understanding comedic timing
and reading the audience. Chris Higham also did a great job at portraying
Adolpho. He is one of the more memorable characters from the show and Chris had
a presence on stage that the audience looked forward to seeing. He also did a
great job reading the audience and making us laugh several times.
I'd also like to congratulate Zachary and Laura for creating
relatable characters to an audience mostly made of adults.
Props to Zachary learning the tap routines! It was evident
he worked very hard on those numbers.
11/21 7:30 p.m.
Let me begin with a couple direct quotes from my notes:
"I love Kitty's energy on stage!" "The Man in Chair has great
timing, really great interpretation of the character!" "Aldolpho,
good comedic timing!" "Robert, great coordination in Accident Waiting
to Happen!" The Drowsy Chaperone at Jenkintown had some really fun
performance moments and it was a great choice for this particular group of
students. They all seemed to be really enjoying every minute of this quirky
show.
Mr. Gifford really shined in this performance. He had great
timing and his physicality of this excited old man was really splendid to
watch. He was incredibly engaging and had a measured approach in breaking the
4th wall that is difficult for an actor of any age. The vocals overall were on
par for high school performers. While most of the vocal numbers were adequate
for this particular show, there were moments where it was clear that the
students are still experimenting with their vocal range and abilities. I was
really glad to see that this did not stop the students from giving every number
their full energy. Every student on stage had great stage presence, even if
their voices were wavering or struggling to find their pitch. I have just a
couple specific notes on the performance.
I'd love to see the actors have more freedom to adjust the
stage picture on the fly. There were quite a few moments where all of the
actors stood in a line across the stage. This happens with newer actors,
however, I think that some improvisational games may help the students be able
to self -identify when this is happening and adjust on the fly. There is a game
called "Sit, Stand, Lean" where three actors perform a long form
improvisational scene where there must always be one actor sitting, one
standing, and one leaning on something. As one actor feels the urge to stand or
move, the other actors have to adjust in real time to keep the game going, but
also justify their movements. It can help the students learn to read the stage
picture as a whole. Also, you can play a long-form Monkey in the Middle. You
have three actors perform a long-form improvisational scene where one actor
must stay "between" the other two actors from the audience
perspective (so not in a line per-say, the middle actor can be upstage of the
other two or downstage). These are just some fun games to play in class that
secretly teach some of these stage picture skills that will help give the
students a common vocabulary when blocking. If you see everyone in a line,
assign someone to be the "Monkey" and let them walk through the
blocking with that in mind. It will dramatically increase the actors' agency
over the stage picture and blocking process.
11/22 7:30 p.m. Friday
It all comes down to the Man in Chair, doesn't it? Henry
Gifford was superb in this role. I had heard good things about "The Drowsy
Chaperone," but had not seen it until Friday. Your production made the
wait worthwhile. Almost everyone got to play their role broadly, which made it
easier than usual to cast and direct, I imagine, since everyone likes to
overplay. Gifford and Chris Higham were the standouts. Yusra Ali and Laura
Dibble were not far behind,
11/23 2:30 p.m. Saturday
What a delightful production! I was thoroughly entertained
by your lovely cast. I thought all of the performers - lead, supporting, and
featured - were talented. Henry Gifford, Yusra Ali, and Chris Higham stood out
in particular. Yusra had a beautiful voice and captured the affected Janet Van
der Graaf well.
I did wonder if there were other gestures she could have
done with her hands and arms, but in the mocking way of performers of the
1920s, perhaps her arm gestures were spot on. Chris Higham's timing was perfect
as Aldolpho, not to mention he did a wonderful job of singing "I Am Aldopho."
That's not an easy song to sing and he nailed it. And that leaves Henry
Gifford, who was positively fabulous. His comedic timing was also spot on, and
he did a wonderful job of capturing the sincerity of a man whose only joy in
life is musicals.
The dance ensembles - the Bride's Lament Monkeys and
Feldzieg and the Gangsters - were a lot of fun and funny. The gangsters, next
to Henry and Chris, were among my favorite characters. They also had great
comedic timing, which may be partly why they stood out.
11/21 7:30 p.m. Thursday
I had an opportunity to see some really wonderful
performances in The Drowsy Chaperone: Henry, Marielle, Daniel, Chris, Yusra,
Nick… and the ending of TDC was priceless. In Henry, all along, you've had this
vulnerable, dear, sweet man, who for two hours, enthralled us – the audience -
with his rapture about musical theater, and then. . . . there is a knock on the
door. (Yikkes!) Enter Nick, spouting Cats and all the theater greats.
Nick is Henry's theater parallel, another musical aficionado.
This Cats loving apartment superintendent is more than willing to engage with a
Man in Chair not on a fake, but on a real life level.
Hush ! The fevered imaginary pitch in Henry's head dies
down. What's the Man to do? Relate (as he has related, lovingly, with all his
imaginary characters)? Nope. Distance himself. Return to his inner revelry.
A message, and a well done show, Jenkintown. The entire cast
pulled off this show, and especially the dramatic ending, marvelously. The
ending (with Nick's approach to Henry, and the rebuff), was hilarious, as was, the
cane drop and the record skip. (What a directorial coup.)
About the lead, Henry G., I would say that if his singing
voice could match his comedic timing, he would one day be playing Broadway. Evan
Hanson? There were times, during the show, when I thought, perhaps, Henry
should pick up the pace a little bit, but then, at the same moment, I thought,
"what actor has the presence of mind and confidence to proceed at this
pace, and also hold an audience's attention, like Henry can?" (In high
school, none that I know of.) So I wouldn't suggest that Henry do anything to
his comedy. (Now, there was one thing about Henry's Man that I enjoyed, and
could have enjoyed more of: Henry's idiosyncrasies when his back was turned to
the audience, when "no one was watching," like the times when he was
getting tea or a drink from the kitchen.) Overall, I thought Henry's
performance was iconic and, just like I wouldn't suggest a thing to Hugh Grant,
I was enthralled with Henry's entire performance. An icon is an icon.
Reflection on Nick: In his smaller role, Nick captured the
Super's character, like a SNL professional would have done. Dana Garvey in high
school? The truly wonderful things about both the performances of Henry and Nick
in the Drowsy Chaperone was their vulnerability. They were brilliant. They were
unique and wonderful. They invited you to laugh at them, but you wouldn't. You
could only laugh with them, because each was such a sweet, engaging, human
being. The characterizations by Henry and Nick remind us all, that we have
quirks, and these differences are to be celebrated. Inspirational performances
by both actors
Technical
11/23 Saturday 2:30 p.m.
This group worked hard on designing and building/shopping
set, costumes and props, and it showed. If it is possible, I would encourage a
blackout for scene changes, to help transitions to be a little cleaner.
The sound mixing was effective although I would work to
ensure that mics are turned on during all solos, as at times cues appeared to
be missed. The makeup design was excellent, and all actors looked
period-appropriate and features were effectively enhanced.
11/22 Friday 7:30 p.m.
The oven set piece and its use as an entrance was truly
something stunning to see in its execution, as was the airplane in the finale.
Truly good job to the set construction and props departments. It was jarring,
however, the frequency with which we would see the crew (wearing all black)
moving set pieces on and offstage amid the characters. That would occasionally
take me out of the show. I would recommend, if those entrances are unavoidable,
that the crew be in a low-fuss costume, so as to blend better with the show
11/22 7:30 p.m. Friday
I was happy to see how effortlessly the plane came together,
and the speed with which it was brought on stage and assembled shows that the
students used problem-solving skills and worked effortlessly as a team.
The lights, as previously mentioned, were nice and served
their purpose. The use of isolated lights for the sconces on the walls, and
cuing them separately, was a sophisticated touch. More splashes of color would
have been welcome – it's a musical comedy, so the Broadway Pink gel (R339) was begging
to be used in multiple numbers. The sound was a low point, but not in the way
that one might expect. I actually found the sound system to be quite nice with
clear frequencies.
Very rarely did a microphone pop or did something get cut
out, and at no point did a battery die. The biggest concern was how microphones
were turned on while actors were off stage at multiple points during the
production!
Sound is often touted as the trickiest technical theatre
component, and increased diligence on microphone power will do you wonders in
creating a smooth production.
All make-up and hair were perfectly period, and not a hair
was out of place. Aldolpho's moustache was perfectly pastiche. Additionally,
the hair was integrated nicely into the costumes (specifically Drowsy's turban,
Kitty and Janet's headbands, etc.) which is often difficult, and Tottendale's
wig was nicely kept and fit her well. Review of the department's Instagram
shows that a lot of time and effort was taken to publicize the show on social
media. Creative videos and behind the scenes snapshots are the kind of things
modern societies love.
11/22 7:30p.m. Friday
I would like to compliment the Stage Crew for their design
in the set and attention to period details. The props were period and the
design as well. Additionally, the set allowed space for performance and also
set the scene wonderfully. • The Marketing & Publicity team did a terrific
job with filling their Instagram page with fun contests and enticing
photos/videos. The consistent posting and updates along the whole process were
very well captured on the Instagram. Based off the number of likes, the
Instagram page was clearly reaching a good amount of people. Additionally, the
advertising for the SNAP Raise on the Instagram was obviously successful based
off the amount of money raised. Makeup
and Hair team did a wonderful job in their research of hairstyles of the period.
All of the scene changes were smooth and efficient. I would
have liked it if all of the maids did all of the scene changes. I think that
would have helped me stay in the story more. • The sound for the show never had
any problems. The mics and the orchestra were very well balanced and there was
never any feedback. I want to give a huge shout out for all the record player
sound cues; those were always right on time. • Overall, the lighting was
effective. For the simplicity of lighting provided in the theater, the lighting
team did a great job making most of what they have.
11/22 7:30 p.m. Friday
The stage management was well done - all props and
transitions seemed nearly flawlessly executed on stage. The design felt
realistic for an apartment and also useful as a stage for the
show-within-a-show. I was also quite impressed by the makeup and hair design,
as things were realistic for the time period and looked appropriate on stage.
If I hadn't known better, I'd say your Aldolpho really had a mustache!
There were, unfortunately, several noticeable issues with
sound during the show I saw, including some hot mics from offstage actors
and/or stage crew that interrupted a scene or transition/silence. Lighting
seemed adequate for the scenes but lacked any meaningful, noticeable transition
to differentiate areas of the stage or to emphasize the mood. I would encourage
the light crew in particular to think about how their job goes beyond simply
providing light and how they can almost be another actor on the stage by using
lighting in unique ways
11/23 2:30 p.m.
The sound for the show was exceptionally on point. I thought
the sound effects were well-timed and very clear. There was a small issue with
the mics at the beginning, but it was fixed quickly and seamlessly. I thought
everyone could be heard well and clear at all times. I loved the creation of
the Airplane. Everyone moved so quickly that it was fun watching the pieces
come together.
I did like how everyone worked together to get the stage
together, and I thought it was a creative move to have the shift crew to be
dressed and the Maids and serving staff. It worked with the world created for
the show. I feel that there were one or two changes that could have been a bit
faster. Overall, I thought everything went exceptionally well.
The hair and makeup for the show were beautiful; I could see
the research that went into creating each look. I loved the curls that were in
Kitty's hair. I loved the Lulu used for The Chaperone. I thought it was a fun
touch. I thought everyone's look was accurate and reflected the status of each
character.
I enjoyed the programs. I thought it was extremely creative
and fun to add the recipe for Toledo Surprise. It was a great touch and added
to the overall fun of the show. I also loved the buttons. They were well made,
and it was an excellent momentum to have.
The lights for the show perfect. Every cue was on time, and
I think that the use of spots was timed perfectly. I could tell that there was
a lot of work put into the show.
11/23 2:30 p.m.
It was a nice and well -functioning set and all of the
transitions were smooth and kept the show moving, even the assembly of the
airplane, so the stage crew did a very good job. Never having seen the show
before, I don't know if entering through the oven is standard, but it was a
nice touch.
11/23 2:30 p.m. Saturday
This set was beautiful. The details were great and it really
looked like an apartment. The extra props that were on display added to the
motif and the items that were hung really made it come to life. I also liked
the stove effect where the characters came out. Excellent job!
The airplane was great! The execution of getting it on stage
during a song and putting it together was a great example of how well this cast
and crew worked together to make it come alive on stage! The only problem I had
with light was that there was a dark spot DSR where many characters would sing
and they were not well lit, while the other side with the man in the chair was
lit very well. The actors did not let it affect their performance and the
lights eventually came up more, but some songs did start in a darkened corner
of the stage. Sound was great! The effects and the mics that the actors wore
were executed correctly. Everyone and everything could be heard clearly.
11/23 2:30 p.m. Saturday
I really enjoyed seeing the set and hearing the music upon
walking in to the theater. I loved the wall sconces and the appliance that
opened up to reveal the characters. It worked well. I also noticed the rotary
phone on the wall and couldn't help but wonder if members of the cast knew how
to use it!
I thought the costumes were very reflective of the
characters. I especially liked Janet Van de Graaf's "roaring 20's"
flapper style dress. I was distracted, however, by some of the actors' mic
packs showing. Wearing a mic belt underneath the costumes would avoid having
them show to the audience.
There were some sound issues, i.e. mics on backstage,
volume, etc. As far as lighting, I would've liked to have seen more of a
spotlight on the Henry while he was sitting in his chair. I noticed the crew
moving set pieces on stage too many times because the FOH lights, including
Henry's spot, were hitting them. I appreciate that students are running sound
and lighting. Therefore, mistakes are going to happen. It's just when a student
talks backstage and the audience hears it, it's going to be memorable.
11/23 2:30 p.m. Friday
I thought the technical end of the production was
particularly strong. The lightning and sound stood out among the elements. I
liked the contrast in lighting between the Man in the Chair's home and the
world of the musical. I also felt that the performers were well lit throughout,
and I loved the use of the flashlight.
The sound was even stronger. There may have been one moment
during the performance where someone's microphone was on backstage, but it was
quickly handled. Otherwise, I was impressed by the selection of sound effects
and the cuing of said effects. If there was ever a moment where something was
off cue, I never noticed. It all seemed seamless. Kudos to the sound team.
Finally, I thought the stage crew was efficient, and I am
impressed by the ability, not only to hide the airplane but to assemble it in a
timely and unobtrusive fashion, and Stephanie Maddox and Ambar Guzman did a
great job of capturing the 20s look with the makeup and the hairstyles
11/21 7:30 p.m. Thursday
Technically, The Drowsy Chaperone was a very smart
production. Scene changes- check: seamless. The opening parade of entrances and
introductions, through the oven - a "wow" factor. The final numbers
(before intermission and curtain call) with all their glitzes and glams – completely
in keeping with the wonderful dream sequence feel of the musical.
The lighting was very effective. Lights out, voices in the
dark, lights on, spotlight on Janet after that great disappearing act. I was
content with the low ceiling effect of the studio apartment, I felt it. The
isolation in a small personal space, but (and this is, I'm sure, easier said
than done) would it have been possible to somehow give the feeling of an
expanded space, when TDC was in full on dream/fantasy sequences?
Really enjoyed the phonograph mishaps!
Overall
11/23 Saturday 2:30 p.m.
It was a pleasure to watch these students perform.
This cast would benefit from an opportunity to learn how to
emote and listen to each other, and from work on vocal blend and sharpness of
choreography and formations.
11/22 7:30 p.m. Friday
It was a lovely evening at Jenkintown High School to see
their production of The Drowsy Chaperone! I laughed out loud early and often —
this was a truly good ensemble. With this cast helmed by an incredibly
hilarious Man in the Chair, supported by such standouts as Aldolpho and the
eponymous chaperone at the supporting level and George at the featured level.
Tech elements like the oven and the airplane were great and supported this very
funny show. Jenkintown High School should leave this weekend very proud of the
show they brought to life.
11/22 Friday 7:30 p.m.
"The Drowsy Chaperone" was a lovely lesson in
classical musical comedy. Students rose to the occasion and embraced the
absurdity of what they were doing without hesitation. Mr. Gifford paced the
show remarkably, and gave the audience a solid grounding point to always refer
to for quick witticisms and commentary.
11/22 7:30 p.m. Friday
This was truly a laugh-out-loud funny evening, and I'm
distinctly impressed by this cast's ability to portray the comedy of the scenes
while not devolving into "random silliness." They maintained the flow
of the script and played it as if it was real.
A few technical pieces of this production didn't quite click
into place on the night I attended, but there were no major mishaps or glaring
mistakes (besides the hot mics). I left the theatre after this show smiling and
happy to tell everyone about it, which to me is the best kind of review one
could have. An outstanding overall job to the Drowsy Chaperone company.
11/23 2:30 p.m. Saturday
I had such a fun time with this production. I loved the
teamwork between the cast and the technical crew. The moments were the record
would stop, and the cast would pause along with it, was pure skill and
practice. I could see the hard work that everyone put into the show. I could
tell that each member of the production worked to allow everyone to shine, and
it was beautiful. I could tell there was trust amongst the group, and they let
the audience become a part of the group.
11/23 2:30 p.m. Saturday
The overall production was enjoyable and a lot of fun and
what more should you expect from a "musical within a comedy"? It was
a very enthusiastic cast that kept its energy up throughout the performance,
and the fun that they were having carried over to the audience
11/23 2:30 p.m. Saturday
I really enjoyed this performance. The cast and crew put on
a great production that they should be proud of. The cast worked well together
with getting the props and set pieces where they needed to be effortlessly and
all transitions between scenes were very smooth. Once again, I really enjoyed
the man in the chair. He really sets the mood for the show and he was great! He
set the stage for a fun and lively show that the cast followed to take us all
away for 2 hours. The space for dances seemed a little tight, but the
choreography was great and really used all the space they had effectively.
11/23 2:30 p.m. Saturday
Overall, I think the cast of TDC did a great job telling the
story. It is a very comedic piece and isn't always easy to portray because of
the countless references to the 1920's. It was humbling to read how much your
community supports the arts. I suggest continue pushing boundaries in the shows
that you choose to produce and focusing on vocals to stand out among other area
productions. Bravo!
11/21 7:30 p.m. Thursday
Overall, The Drowsy Chaperone at Jenkintown was a really fun
show. It was my first time ever seeing this production and I enjoyed every
moment of it! It was fun, engaging, and the students' energy was palpable in
the audience. There is room for improvement and learning, but this was a GREAT
show choice for this group of students
11/22 7:30 p.m. Friday
All in all, a delightful production of a marvelous musical
that's an excellent choice for high school. And a perfect casting of Henry
Gifford as Man in Chair.
11/23 2:30 p.m. Saturday
While there were some issues with timing and pacing, I
appreciated the energy and joy brought to the stage by The Drowsy Chaperone
ensemble. I had a smile on my face throughout, laughed heartily, and may have
gotten a bit teary-eyed at the end when the Man in the Chair joined the musical
cast.
11/21 7:30 p.m. Thursday
Opening night at Jenkintown was actually a Eureka moment for
me: literally, The Drowsy Chaperone is a two-man show. The Super is
"life" and the Man in Chair is an allegory for today's abundant,
obsessive use of the "internet." The Man in TDC populates the stage
with unforgettable characters (who are actually figments of his imagination).
Jenkintown presented
a great show, and for me, the strengths of this show were the staging, the
lighting, the choreography with the record player and the imaginative
performances (but less by the imaginary characters, and more by the two
"real" actors: the Man and the Super. (The character-portrayal by
Daniel was terrific, and the singing and acting, both, of Marielle, Chris,
Yusra, and Sophie were terrific also, very good).
I loved this show at Jenkintown! The performers filled the
stage and made it seem like it was a far bigger production than it could be,
considering the size of Jenkintown High School. The magic of theater!! There
were many fine directorial choices, delivering great impact.
TDC was a stupendous production, an engaging metaphor, and a
production where the sum truly was greater than The Drowsy Chaperone individual
parts.
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