Cappies Review: 'Head Over Heels' At Robinson Secondary School

By Gabriella Sanchez of Langley High School

In a magical land far, far away, the royal kingdom of Arcadia embarks on a quest to preserve peace, prosperity and order within society. But when love takes unexpected turns and chaos erupts, will the dynasty ever return to its conventional ways?

With punky '80s music written by "The Go-Go's" and an adapted plot of The Countess of Pembroke's Arcadia by Sir Phillip Sydney, "Head over Heels" combines renaissance dialogue with modern twists to create a timeless musical. When the princesses of Arcadia spark romance with unconventional characters, the kingdom undergoes a long-winded journey of betrayal, self-discovery, love, and gradually, acceptance.

With majestic costumes, impressive singing and a spectacular ensemble, Robinson Secondary School's rendition of "Head Over Heels" truly transformed the theater into a heavenly place on earth.

Frequently engaging in flirtatious gestures, Pamela (Kat Nickel) and Mopsa (Katherine Porter) forged a powerful bond that electrified the stage. The dynamic duo, joined by Philoclea (Elyson Mader) delivered heart-breaking melodies in "Good Girl," delving into the perpetual high expectations demanded by them as women of the kingdom. Raising their eyebrows and widening their eyes, the actresses emanated a sad, defeated aura as they gently sang the somber song.

Further, Philoclea perfectly embodied a stereotypical young princess, shining with her effortless harmonies and endearing giggles when immersed in love trances with Musidorus (Luke Stephens). Stephens' versatility was displayed as he dichotomously played the role of the Shepherd boy unfit to marry Philoclea, and Musidorus, a courageous female warrior.

Away from the realm, the ensemble joined Mopsa on the sandy shores of Lesbos. Aimlessly walking along the stage and hopelessly gazing in various directions, Mopsa showcased her tender singing and aching desire for Pamela in "Vacation."

Wearing mini dresses and tossing beach balls, the ensemble accentuated the balmy atmosphere to create a fun, eccentric performance. After Mopsa's vacation and temporary isolation from Pamela, Pamela's character develops as she learns to embrace her sexuality and blossom into a newfound persona.

Later in "Heaven is a Place on Earth," the ensemble donned magnificent, silky bird costumes, gently flapping their large wings while Basilious (Jack Haley) and Gynecia (Naomi Fitzgerald) shared a sweet duet.

In addition, the lighting (Haley Novotny, Katie Eagan, Chad Kassan) illuminated a wonderous scene of superficial creatures swarming the King and Queen, adding to the mystical nature of the show.

Adding comedic elements to a dramatic musical, inflated sheep humorously pranced around on stage and whispered sheep sounds while the set changed. Other quirky elements were incorporated, including the repetition of "Skid marks on my heart" to express overbearing emotions. Glittered papers fell from both sides of the stage, cold sparks skyrocketed into the air, and loud sound effects (Torri Layton, Sophia Baez, Hovsep Seferian, Gabi Vessal) reverberated throughout the theater.

Overall, Robinson Secondary School's high intensity performance of "Head over Heels" stunned the audience through gorgeous singing, bedazzled costumes, and a passionate ensemble!