Xanadu is a wonderfully silly musical comedy based on a 1980 cult classic film of the same name. The film rose to infamy for the abysmal quality of its story and production value, yet retained a soundtrack which was incredibly commercially successful. The plot centers on a Greek muse and demigod, Clio, as she attempts to inspire a frustrated artist named Sonny. Disguised as Kira, a young Australian woman, Clio seeks to help Sonny to create a glorious work which embodies the amalgamation of all art forms: a roller disco. In this journey, spurred on by the curse of her jealous sisters, Melpomene and Calliope, Clio and Sonny fall in love, a forbidden offense, and Clio must risk Zeus’s wrath. The 2007 production ran for over 500 performances, receiving a Drama Desk Award for Best Book and critical acclaim for its cheeky embracement of the tackiest, most fun aspects of the 1980s.

The technical crews at George Mason took on the challenge posed by this show with enthusiasm. Neon colors, woven through the lights, costumes, and set pieces, suggested the boldness of the 80s without the blinding overkill which is so tempting in a show this admittedly silly. Hot pink wheels on white roller skates, delightfully ill-fitting denim cutoffs, and fuzzy powder-pink leg warmers adorned the cast as they gallivanted about a set composed of rotating pieces, stylistically painted in a cartoonish motif to transport quickly between Venice Beach, the Xanadu Theater, and Mount Olympus.

In arguably the most impressive aspect of the production, the fantastic Xanadu Rock Band created near-flawless musical accompaniment. Coordinating seamlessly with the performers, and clad themselves in eye-catching neon attire, they refused to fade into the woodwork and provided a strong foundation from which to build this show.

Sophie DeLeo’s portrayal of Clio was elevated by a clear understanding of the bizarre, almost farcical style of the show. Exuding alternatively the poise of an ageless demigod, and the nervous giggle of a love struck 1980s teen, DeLeo took on the challenges of this role with ease. Gliding gracefully across the stage in roller-skates, while performing various and challenging choreography, all without a stumble, is a testament to DeLeo’s skill. Chemistry sizzled between she and Rand Walter, who portrayed the mortal artist Sonny, as they flirt in “Strange Magic.” Walter himself exhibited energetic control of comic timing and a wonderfully clear vocal tone which allowed him to shine throughout the night.

The fantastically wicked duo, Kiki Skotte and Lily Constance, created a hilarious portrayal of envious jilted muses Melpomene and Calliope. In one of the strongest numbers of the night, the two showcased their skill as vocalists, as well as brilliance as comedians, as they schemed in “Evil Woman.” Kiki Skotte’s strong voice and masterful musicality set her apart, while Constance’s endless commitment to her bold character choices incited laughter throughout the audience.

The performers and technicians at George Mason High School demonstrated not only their broad base of skill, but a willingness to adapt to a theatrical piece style, with a delightful production of Xanadu that did just what the story requires–not taking itself too seriously.

by Siena Richardson of McLean High School

Photo Gallery

Sophie Deleo and Rand Walter	Full Cast

Photos by Alison Kutchma

A young gentlemen, known as Jack Worthing while at home in the country, takes the name Ernest when in the town. With this persona he may do as he pleases without sullying his reputation. His secret is discovered by his aristocratic friend Algernon Montcrieff, cousin of Gwendolyn Fairfax, the lady Jack wishes to marry. Algernon keeps quiet about Jack’s real name, and uses it for his own mischief. He himself takes the name Ernest Worthing to the country and masquerades as Jack’s wayward brother with the intent of meeting his friend’s young ward, Cecily.

Oscar Wilde’s immortal wit came to life through this lively cast, each and every one making their voices heard, with proper British accents preserved through the duration of the play. The resplendent scenery, in turn brought the audience into Victorian England itself. The occasional piano music in the parlors and birdsong in the garden only served to add to the setting.

Charlie Belt as Jack Worthing was charming and sincere, and brought about a lively and clever character, exchanging witticisms with Algernon with fluid ease. Melissa Goitia played well-bred, upper-class young lady Gwendolyn Fairfax. Her presence was posh and authoritative; noticeable but never overpowering.

Neil Wilcox-Cook highlighted the show as Algernon Montcrieff, ever the leisurely upper-class wit with his feet on the table and a profoundly nonsensical quip up his sleeve. Sarah Chapin played Lady Bracknell with all the poise and proper carriage and authority to make any grande dame proud.

The entire cast stayed in character throughout the length of the play, particularly when they did not have lines. They reacted and interacted with the setting and other characters when others were speaking. This was particularly effective in any scene that involved eavesdropping.

The sets were detailed and elaborate. The country garden overflowed with birdsong, running water, and trellises of flowers. The London townhome was every inch the proper British drawing room, with warm lighting and tea settings and portraits on the walls. Rarely static, (unless they were sitting as proper young ladies) the players moved and interacted with the props and sets, whether lounging with feet on the table or munching the ever-present cucumber sandwiches and muffins between lines. The costumes were well-designed and period accurate, perfectly in place yet never distracting.

As said by Algernon, “Anyone can play accurately — but I play with wonderful expression.” And indeed, this cast presented this Victorian classic both accurately and with wonderful expression.

by Elizabeth Skelton of Teens and Theatre Homeschool program

Photo Gallery

Michael Steiner, Dani Fletcher	Neil Wilcox-Cook, Charlie Belt, Lily Roth
Neil Wilcox-Cook, Charlie Belt, Melissa Goitia, Lily Roth	Sarah Chapin
Charlie Belt, Melissa Goitia

Photos by Peter Nguyen

The male voices were particularly strong. Jean Valjean (Sam Waters) had such a wonderful tone to his voice and had a very nice range which he displayed especially in “Bring Him Home.” Javert (Misha Terman) had a delightfully powerful voice and sang with such intensity. He was a thrill to watch especially with his solo songs such as “Stars.” Although the men were great, there were some outstanding women too. Eponine (Julia Estrada) had such a unique, sweet tone and sang with such ease. Her pain and desire for Marius was depicted skillfully in “On My Own.” Madame Thenardier (Aleeya Ensign) and Thenardier (Bryan Ward) were hysterical and surprisingly lovable for such rotten characters.

With such a large cast and so many characters on stage it can be very distracting to audiences. However, each chorus member had developed their own character that helped keep the audience focused. The chorus numbers were strong with vocals too. The harmonies were stunning and the blending of voices was also extremely impressive.

The lighting in this production was incredible. The war scene, especially, combined with the smoke, made it extremely believable that they were actually in combat. The set was well utilized. There were not many pieces to be moved. One of the most creative pieces was the bridge that lowered down from the ceiling. It was extremely effective in Javert’s suicide scene.

The show is practically and opera and extremely difficult to execute well in high school theatre. However, with George Mason’s strong cast, the lighting, and set, Les Miserables was anything but miserable.

by Jenna Kraynak of Mount Vernon High School

Photo Gallery

Ryan Short, Jake King, and Jason Kutchma	Veronica O’Rourke (Fantine)
Misha Terman (Javert) and Samuel Waters (Jean Valjean)	Ose Djan (Ensemble), Vijay Menon (Gavroche), Ryan Fields (Ensemble)
Anne Briggs (Cosette) and Samuel Waters (Jean Valjean)

Photos by Lauren Zampella and Jeremy Shumpert.