Cappies Review of Freedom HS' 'High School Musical'

From the Cappies: Do you want the courage to go soaring, flying, and reaching the stars? If so, Freedom High School's production of High School Musical will surely take you there. In this on-stage adaptation of the beloved Disney Channel Movie from 2006, teenagers fight back against social norms and take a stand for what they believe in. While each clique seems to have a place in the school, not everyone wishes to conform to their labels. Dramatic chaos ensues when basketball jock, Troy Bolton, and new girl/brainiac, Gabriella Montez, break free from the status quo and audition for the school musical together. The show promotes individuality and acceptance as teens try to discover who they are.

With a cast of over 50 people, the organization, blocking, and energy was quite impressive. The choreography stood out with the energetic and engaging dance troupes, as well as with Sharpay and Ryan. The costumes truly represented each character and helped distinguish between the cliques. The dedication of many cast members to their roles was splendid. I never knew an earthworm could show such emotion!

Duncan MacLean, also known as Troy Bolton, definitely found what he was looking for as the musical advanced. He came out of his shell and embraced his character's true passion in Act II with songs such as "Start of Something New" and "Breaking Free". Furthermore, his relationship with Father and Coach Bolton was heartwarming and sincere. His counterpart, Sydney Calvelli as Gabriella Montez, also had her head in the game as she belted out her lovely solo song "When There Was Me and You".

The dynamic duo of the two triple-threat performers, Ethan VanSlyke and Ashley Nguyen, as Ryan and Sharpay Evans stole the show. They bopped each other to the top with their fantastic sibling chemistry, killer dance moves, riveting vocals, embodiment of their characters, and confident attitudes. Ethan had a hop in his step and excellent comedic timing. Ashley's voice helped carry the ensemble and fill the entire auditorium. Her sass and ambiance captured everyone's attention the second she stepped on stage. Additionally, the dancers had very advanced choreography in almost every scene. This at times was distracting, but overall impressive and positively enhanced the show. Emily Sorber, the actress behind Ms. Darbus made the character lovable and respectable in a new and enjoyable way. Traditionally, the character is a kooky, fractious, disliked teacher. It was fantastic to see Emily rock the character as her own. One of the most outstanding roles was that of Josh Lee, actingas Zeke Baylor. His adorable, awkward flirting with Sharpay and lively dancing were only topped by vocals so hot they could torch a creme brulee.

Each costume was well thought out and clearly reflected each character, conveying outfits like those from the original movie as well as giving them a personal touch. Having costumes follow a red and white color scheme to match the set and school colors was very pleasing to the eye. Issues with microphones made it difficult to hear the cast, but having a large ensemble made the big musical numbers easy to understand. The orchestra did a lovely job and accompanied performers smoothly.From dancing brainiacs, musical skater-dudes, and bossy thespians, to singing jocks, this show has it all and Freedom did a great job of bringing it all together. Those Wild Cats definitely had the drive to do what it took to make High School Musical their high school's musical.

by Alexa Schwartzman of Oakton High School

Photo courtesy of the Cappies (From left to right: Ashley Nguyen and Ethan Van Slyke. The photo is by Jason McGraw)