Within Mount Vernon High School’s production of Aida: School Edition, several aspects of the performance stood out; namely, the performance of the titular character, played by Erin Hugee. Throughout Hugee’s performance, she not only maintained a sense of professionalism in her vocals, but was able to stand apart from an ensemble of diverse voices during large group numbers. In her performance of “Easy as Life,” Hugee held her ground as she belted powerful notes from her position at center stage; furthermore, she commanded the attention of the audience during the trio performance of “A Step Too Far” through powerful facial expression. Hugee’s portrayal of Aida within MVHS’s Aida: School Edition was not only marked by a consistent vocal performance, but formed a character complete with evident depth.

The set of MVHS’s Aida: School Edition, although simplistic in design, provided a sense of purity throughout the turmoil of the show. The dual-leveled set allowed for a differentiation in height upon the stage, as well as an added level of interest to each scene. Although set changes were nonstop throughout the show, the simple set pieces allowed for transitions marked by minimal interruption. Furthermore, the inclusion of the hieroglyphics (which accurately depicted lyrics from the score) was a minute detail which carried with it a profound effect: not only did it enhance the sense of the period, but emphasized the importance of the lyrics that each cast member sang throughout the performance. Although not the most complex, MVHS’s set for Aida: School Edition allowed for a clean acting space while retaining professionalism.

The ensemble of “Nubians” within MVHS’s performance of Aida: School Edition achieved what every ensemble strives to achieve: ambiguity. Each was able to meld into a seamless ensemble while simultaneously standing out as individual performers. Alicia Foster, specifically, was able to blend into an ensemble while dancing during numbers such as “Dance of the Robe,” while standing out in roles such as the Jail Guard during Aida’s meeting with her father. Not only did she deliver her lines with conviction and motive, but also remained in character throughout the scene, even when away from the focus of the scene. Throughout the entire ensemble’s performance during MVHS’s Aida: School Edition, a sense of unity was present while each performer was able to succeed individually.

Although simplistic in spectacle as most high school shows are, MVHS’s Aida: School Edition did not disappoint in delivery. Each member of the cast assumed a personal ownership within their performance which was largely evident, and lent to an overall entertaining show. Not only did the uncomplicated aspects allow for more of a focus upon the performance of the cast, but allowed for a reminder of the audience on the theme of the show: love is timeless, love is simple, love is blind.

by Aiden Carroll of Heritage High School

Based off L. Frank Baum’s beloved classic “The Wizard of Oz,” The Wiz tells the same (abridged) story, but with an African-American cultural influence. Thus, the story of a young girl from Kansas on a quest to meet a majestic wizard, meeting a ragtag group of friends along the way, holds true but the characters all simply hold more soulful notes and rhythms! The Wiz was originally produced in 1974, with music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls, at the height of the disco era. The charming urban show became a hit, winning seven Tony’s and five Drama Desks.

Even today, The Wiz remains an audience favorite, as Mount Vernon proved this weekend. From colorful dynamic lighting to exuberant acting (from humans and animals alike), the production was entertaining for audiences of all ages.

Courtney Kramer as Dorothy was convincingly naïve and sweet as a child herself, with tender facial expressions and a soprano lilt that consistently managed challenging riffs. Matching her believability was Bryan Azucena as the Scarecrow, who hilariously maintained “boneless” physicality throughout the whole show, and with an enjoyable strong tenor voice to boot. The charming Tin Man (Logan Beveridge) and adorable Lion (Justin Atkinson) evened out the Four Friends, complementing them with Beveridge’s impressive falsetto and Atkinson’s humorous quivering and false bravado and that’s before they reached the Emerald City!

Upon reaching their destination, even more surprises were in store. The Wiz, played by Gerald Halstead, with a thundering voice and exaggerated gestures proved exactly why the Emerald City was his. He conjured up a nice touch of realism to such a magical world, especially in his later downfall. Accompanying his grandeur was the far-reaching energy of the ensemble, especially the Winged Monkeys, which gave attitude alongside in-synch acrobatics.

As if The Wiz couldn’t get any more wacky, many of the characters were even further developed by the intense creativity of the tech crew. The precise lighting, designed by Alex Kellogg and Nahki Oliver, helped set the tone and place for each scene, from the shadowy spots and blinking house lights during the tornado to the jewel-like greens and oranges projected onto the ceiling in the Emerald City. The impressively timed echo sound effects, given by Cody Binstock and Jackson Skidmore, especially made the Wiz all the more terrifying.

However, powerful and persuasive as he may seem, with constant energy and optimism, Mount Vernon’s production of The Wiz proved that nothing can beat the power of true friendship or the chemistry of a close cast.

by Rachel Price of Woodbridge Senior High School

Photo Gallery

Allysa Watkins, Jordyn Stewart (Evillene), Eilah Morris	Amanda Villatoro (Aunt Em) and Courtney Kramer (Dorothy)
Logan Beverage, Jerry Halstead, Justin Atkinson, Bryan Azucena	Desha Brown, Courtney Kramer, Samantha Johnston
Bryan Azucena, Justin Atkinson, Courtney Kramer, Logan Beverage, Adrian Daggett, Curtmarie Hardaker

Photos by Kara Kramer

Casts of nominated shows and the performers of nominated songs presented musical numbers as well as scenes from the nominated plays. The entire show will be aired on Cox Cable “Red Apple” Channel 21 beginning the week of July 2 and will continue throughout the summer.

Throughout the year, the Cappies program is driven by hundreds of area high school theater student critics who attend each others’ shows, write reviews, and serve as Cappies awards judges.

The Gala ceremony was marked with excitement and encouragement. There was never a sense of competitiveness or negative reactions as any of the Awards were announced.

Westfield High School received ten awards, including Musical for their production of Crazy For You. McLean High School received five awards, including Play, for A View From the Bridge.

Rising Critic

• Julian Sanchez, Westfield High School

Returning Critic

• Madelyn Paquette, McLean High School

Madelyn Paquette also was awarded the first Washington Post Critic Award.

Graduating Critic

• Joseph Biagini, Westfield High School

Critic Team

• McLean High School

Marketing and Publicity

• Kyle Norfleet, Michelle Slivinski, Jenny Rubin, Caitlyn Herron, South Lakes High School, West Side Story

Sound

• Alex Allen, Lydia Carroll, Lindsay Worthington, Walt Whitman High School, Frankenstein

Lighting

• Nikolas Allen, Andrew Elman, Walt Whitman High School, Frankenstein

Stage Crew

• Walt Whitman Stage Crew, Walt Whitman High School, Frankenstein

Sets

• Walt Whitman Set Crew, Walt Whitman High School, Frankenstein

Costumes

• Ana Mendelson, Abby Deatherage, W. T. Woodson HS, Alice in Wonderland

Make-up

• Brianna Weiner, W. T. Woodson HS, Alice in Wonderland

Props

• Rita Fair, Jordyn Stewart, Mount Vernon, Blithe Spirit

Special Effects and or Technology

• Brian Clarkson, Walt Whitman High School, Frankenstein

Orchestra

• “Crazy for You” Pit Orchestra, Westfield High School, Crazy For You

Choreography

• Colby Dezelick, Westfield High School, Crazy For You

Creativity

• Arjun Baxter, Composer, W. T. Woodson HS, Alice in Wonderland

Ensemble in a Play

• The Mechanicals, Robinson Secondary School, Ken Ludwig’s Midsummer/Jersey

Ensemble in a Musical

• Follie Dancers and Cowboys, Westfield High School, Crazy For You

Featured Actress

• Kaity Hinojosa, Langley High School, The Crucible

Featured Actor

• Mitchell Buckley, Westfield High School, Crazy For You

Female Dancer

• Corinne Holland, Westfield High School, Crazy For You

Male Dancer

• Nikko Custodio, South County Secondary School, West Side Story

Female Vocalist

• Ariana Kruszewski, South Lakes High School, West Side Story

Male Vocalist

• Sam Allen, Dominion High School, Pippin

Comic Actress in a Play

• Virginia Coffield, St. Stephen’s & St. Agnes School, Fools

Comic Actor in a Play

• Kamau Mitchell, HB Woodlawn Secondary Program, The Foreigner

Comic Actress in a Musical

• Alexandra Nicopoulos, Fairfax High School, Sweeney Todd

Comic Actor in a Musical

• Ian Peterson, Stone Bridge High School, Anything Goes

Supporting Actress in a Play

• Mia Amado, Woodbridge Senior High School, The Miracle Worker

Supporting Actor in a Play

• John Downey, Chantilly High School, I Remember Mama

Supporting Actress in a Musical

• Michelle Radcliffe, Heritage High School, Legally Blonde the Musical

Supporting Actor in a Musical

• Joseph Biagini, Westfield High School, Crazy For You

Lead Actress in a Play

• Lexie Shoaibi, McLean High School, A View From the Bridge

Lead Actor in a Play

• Damian Leverett, McLean High School, A View From the Bridge

Lead Actress in a Musical

• Sean Pugerude, Paul VI Catholic High School, Hello, Dolly!

Lead Actor in a Musical

• Colby Dezelick, Westfield High School, Crazy For You

Song

• Brotherhood of Man, James Madison High School, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying

Play

• McLean High School, A View From the Bridge

Musical

• Westfield High School, Crazy For You

Coward’s Blithe Spirit centers around novelist Charles Condomine, who, in order to research for a book, invites a clairvoyant into his home. But when the clairvoyant, Madame Arcati, brings his first wife back into the mortal world, chaos ensues. Supernatural elements play a major role in this show, so special effects and tech are even more important.

Mount Vernon’s show was anchored by strong acting across the board. Not only were the lead players admirable, actors in smaller roles excelled, especially Kodie Odalato (Edith). Some of the technical elements were extraordinary as well. Though set changes often took a bit too long, the tech crew made up for it with exceptional special effects in the last scene.

Jerry Halstead (Charles) held the show together in somewhat of a straight man role, but he also came through with comedic reactions to the more eccentric characters. Darian Abenes, as the mysterious Elvira, delivered each line with confidence, enchanting the audience in her ghostly role. Kodie Odalato, as Edith, was an audience favorite, due to his cross-dressing and constant flustered state. Also, his physicality as a woman was very strong; he clearly worked to understand the mannerisms of an early 20th century maid.

Technical elements in Mount Vernon’s show were excellent. The set was simple, but very good-looking. Small details like the bendable “wall” were very well conceptualized, adding to the audience’s understanding of the show. The costume crew, headed by Paul Aubuchon and Kodie Odalato, did a respectable job finding pieces that were period-appropriate and still fit the characters. Finally, the special effects team did a marvelous job creating believable supernatural elements, especially in act two.

Mount Vernon High School’s production was certainly enjoyable. With the exception of a few scenes, the actors held the audience’s full attention, and executed plot twists with ease. The technical elements were integral to the show as well. Overall, Blithe Spirit was a success; the audience left happy.

by Noah Habenstreit of Albert Einstein High School

Photo Gallery

Emily Anne Murphy, Desha Brown, Bryan Azucena, Jerry Halstead	Desha Brown, Brian Azucena, Courtney Kramer, Emily Anne Murphy
Emily Anne Murphy, Courtney Kramer, Darian Abenes, Jerry Halstead	Abanes, Emily Anne Murphy, Jerry Halstead, Kodie Oddolato (Badolato), Courtney Kramer

Photos by Kara Kramer

As the name suggests, Little Women includes several strong female characters. One, however, stands out above all the others. Emily Whitworth (Jo March) lit up the stage with her phenomenal characterization, her strong voice, and her fiery passion. She was well accompanied by the other March girls: Vannessa Blake (Amy), Deborah Kamara (Meg), and Jenna Kraynak (Beth). In fact, “Five Forever,” one of the most memorable songs in the show was sung by these four girls and Bryan Azucena (Laurie).

Bryan Azucena (Laurie), in his own right, carried his vocals nicely and used his physicality to its fullest advantage. Logan Beveridge (Professor Bhaer) played wonderfully off Jo March’s strong lead and make adorably lovable character choices. The March girls were also supported throughout the show by their Marmee (Clare Cahill), who not only played the role of mother in the show, but also exhibited terrific dimensions of character, especially in her number “Here Alone.”

The musical number “Some Things Are Meant To Be” was a clear highlight of the show. Sung by Emily Whitworth (Jo March) and Jenna Kraynak (Beth March), this absolutely tear-jerking number truly expressed the love of the four sisters that carried the plot of the show. The harmonies were flawless, the vocal blending superb, and the accompaniment wonderful. This number was truly a feat to be accomplished by any high school theatrical performance, and Mount Vernon performed it effortlessly.

The technical aspects of the show complimented the actors wonderfully. The props were especially delightful, some highlights being the antique wheelchair for Beth and the pictures which decorated the March house. The set was utilitarian, with different parts moving to create entirely different settings. Though some characters experienced minor microphone glitches, the lighting and use of spotlights made up for any faults.

The performance was marked by wonderful energy throughout the show, carried from the smallest to the largest roles. Each and every actor and tech did their part to make this show a joy to watch. As Jo March might say: Christopher Columbus, what a good show!

by Lucy Holden of Paul VI Catholic High School

Deborah Kamara, in the role of Alice, portrayed her character sweetly. Opposite her, Keegan MacDonald as Tony Kirby was earnest in his love for Alice, although at times the chemistry between the two seemed lacking. Grandpa Martin Vanderhoff, played by Alex Dodson, gave a solid performance as the eccentric patriarch.

Some of the actors seemed to rush their lines and there were some dropped lines, but volume was never problematic. Also, a few of the character relationships were not well defined, although the family as a unit acted well together. One of the most consistent actors was Clare Cahill, in the role of Penelope Sycamore. She never broke character and was one of the most convincing actors on stage. Also consistent was Mrs. Kirby, played by Jenna Kraynak, as she was able to keep her snobbish, reserved character while she was surrounded by chaos and eccentricity. Maya Hugee, as the maid Rheba, was able to bring her character to life although she did not have many lines.

Providing comic relief, James Beveridge, had an outstanding Russian accent as the thunderous Russian, Kolenkhov. Emily Whitworth, as the drunken actress Gay Wellington, had skillful comic timing as she flirted with nearly all the male members of the Sycamore household and finally passed out, bottle in hand. Another comic actor, Logan Beveridge, played the unusual Mr. De Pinna, capturing his oddity in his strange saunter.

The technical aspects of the show were handled ably. Lighting (Nick Kellogg) was done well with only one noticeable missed cue and a creative red light for a firework made by Mr. Sycamore. The props and effects (Amber Hugee) were simple but effective, the most memorable being Mr. Sycamore’s fireworks.

Mount Vernon High School’s production of You Can’t Take It With You showed that doing what you love, even if it may be odd and unconventional, is so much more valuable than spending years selling your soul to fill your bank account. After all, “You can’t take it with you!”

by Anna Smith of Seton School

Written by Joseph Kesselring in 1939, Arsenic and Old Lace, a story of good intentions gone awry, is set in Brooklyn, New York in the 1940s. All of the action takes place in the Brewster home, where both the people and the place hold dark secrets. The story unfolds as the sensible, sane Mortimer Brewster stops in to check on his relatives. During his visit, Mortimer discovers a dead body in the window seat, a brother who thinks he is Teddy Roosevelt digging the Panama Canal in the basement, another brother whose face has been altered by an intoxicated plastic surgeon that accompanies him, and more dead bodies in the basement. Also at the home are two dear aunts “charitably” euthanizing their lodgers with poison-laced wine, believing that they “help lonely old men find peace.”

Leading the accomplished actors were Qudsiyya Hewlett (Abby Brewster) and Taylor Wise (Martha Brewster) as Mortimer’s aunts. Hewlett and Wise fittingly captured the sister’s sweet “old lace” facade as well as their dark, “arsenic” side with apt physicality and detailed characterizations. Their depiction of the sisters’ matronly stances, clasped hands, and playful banter were especially noteworthy. While each actress was independently successful, they were more plausible paired.

Malcolm Montgomery as Mortimer Brewster was believably befuddled upon learning his aunts’ chilling secret. His well-paced lines and appropriate emotion enhanced his performance. Katelyn Arthur, as Mortimer’s vivacious fiancée, Elaine Harper, played her role with panache. Montgomery and Arthur showed a well-developed understanding of the importance of their characters’ relationship through their sincere eye contact and tender touches.

Supporting the leads were other skilled performers, including Andrew McKellips as Teddy Brewster, Mortimer’s canal-digging, presidentially-deluded brother. McKellips was wholly committed to his character and was hilarious as he charged up the family’s staircase with gusto as if it were San Juan Hill. Kevin McNelis delivered an appropriately dark portrayal of the vengeful brother, Jonathan, by using aggressive actions and menacing speech. Eddie Maldonado added comedy through his funny antics and cracking accent in his portrayal of the evil Dr. Einstein, “a surgeon of great distinction and something of a magician.” McNelis and Maldonado made an amusing straight man/funny man team.

Although some details, such as the stripes on the walls, were distracting, the comfortable set added authenticity to the production. The semi-circular design of the set allowed the audience to be nearly surrounded by the action, enhancing audience engagement. The lighting was excellent, particularly the special effect of the glowing candles.

Mortimer Brewster said it all when he declared “Insanity runs in my family, it practically gallops!” The theatrical troupe at Mount Vernon High School delivered an entertaining show as they cleverly characterized the insane yet endearing Brewster family in their fun production of Arsenic and Old Lace.

by Meghan Palmer of Bishop Ireton High School

“Bang, Bang! Click, Click! Ring, Ring!” The miscellaneous sounds of Working were emitted in Mount Vernon High School’s recent lively production.

Working, adapted by Stephen Schwartz and Nina Faso from the best-selling novel by Studs Terkel, received several Tony award nominations during its time on Broadway. The musical incorporated the lives of various workers and their stories of professional life. From iron workers to stone masons to waitresses to custodians, Working covered the large spectrum of professions in the real world.

Although the first act lacked a high level of energy, the second act compensated by providing the audience with upbeat characters and dance numbers. The simplistic nature of different aspects of the show, such as choreography and costumes, aided in conveying the truths about professions and the real world. At certain times characters were slightly inaudible, but overall projection played a positive element in the show.

Many of the featured actors and actresses convincingly portrayed their characters and came alive on stage. Stan Reaves, who played Conrad Swibel the UPS Carrier, utilized his character’s comical nature to accurately express a humorous route when working. Kiera Evans, who played Delores Dante the Waitress, additionally utilized her character’s humorous personality to describe her day at work. Her musical number “It’s An Art” had an immense amount of energy and therefore was a pleasure to watch. Isaac Bennett, who played Tom Patrick the Fireman, depicted a fireman’s life in such an emotional, endearing, and truly believable manner.

“It’s an Art” featuring Kiera Evans Over the course of the show, the musical numbers captured the best of various performers on stage. Katie Carter, as Grace Clements the Millworker, illustrated her tedious life in the song “Millwork” where her voice glowed and simultaneously captured the emotion of her occupation. Jonathan Faircloth, as Joe Zutty the retired man, had a wonderful voice and furthermore retained character during the song “Joe.” Torres Hodges, as Frank Decker the Interstate Trucker, had a great voice in the energetic number “Brother Trucker.”

The technological aspect of the show overall benefitted the production. The various levels of the set aided in allowing many characters to be visibly onstage at the same time. Lighting and sound were on cue which helped to move the show along. The transitions between musical numbers and scenes helped move the show along as well since they were quick, efficient, and smooth.

Ultimately, the cast and crew of Working at Mount Vernon created a performance which captured the essence of working life, of the emotions of various occupations, and of the trials and tribulations of the real world.

Working will be performed next weekend, November 16th and 17th at 7:30PM.

by Roopali Kulkarni of Stone Bridge

The King (junior Brad Witucki) and Anna (senior Elaina Daoulas) dance the polka

The show, based on the novel Anna and the King of Saim by Margaret Landon, follows the English school teacher Anna on her road to understanding the customs of Saim, while trying to introducer her western philosophies to the people. Anna becomes the teacher of the King’s children, but soon becomes dissatisfied with the way the King treats her and his other subjects. Thinking that she can no longer be of any use Anna is about to leave when she is told that the King is dying. Instead decides to stay and help Crown Prince Chulalongkorn, her favorite pupil, to rule his people.

While the accompaniment created awkward pauses at the beginning of songs and made the transition from acting to singing shaky, actors seemed to be comfortable and well rehearsed in the musical arrangement and their vocals.

The King (junior Brad Witucki) praying to Buddha for guidance as Anna (senior Elaina Daoulas) watches.

The acting was generally superior, and while some characters seemed forced and lacking in energy the leads more than made up for it. Brad Witucki (the King) had amazing comedic timing and delivered every line perfectly. His accent was consistent throughout the entire show. Elaina Daoulas was also excellent in her portrayal of the strong and opinionated Anna.

It was not only the leads however that garnered all the attention in this show. Katelyn Arthur shined in the many roles she played and was a magnificent dancer. Her ballet during “Small House of Uncle Thomas” was exquisite. Similarly, the mothers and children ensemble was adorable especially since Mount Vernon solicited the help of some of the districts younger thespians (elementary school children).

Mrs. Anna (Elaina Daoulas, senior) is “Getting To Know You” – surrounded by the King’s children and wives.

If vocals left something to be desired, the set (Jasmine Roberts) did the complete opposite. The palace consisted of an elaborate backdrop of golden steps and a Buddah statue. They used a scrim, or gauze curtain, to depict scenes that took place on the docks of the waterfront city. Lighting (also Roberts) was simple for the most part which added needed contrast to scenes like the ballet which were more light intensive. The costumes were gorgeous and really helped the story along, depicting changes in time and adding small visual jokes.

Overall the performance was really something wonderful.

by Taekia Blackwell of TC Williams

This review was written by a Cappies high school critic. The Cappies were founded in 1999, for the purpose of celebrating high school theater arts and providing a learning opportunity for theater and journalism students. You can learn more at cappies.com.