Written by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser, Guys and Dolls is an adaptation of short stories written by Damon Runyon. Set in New York, the musical chronicles the lives of gamblers, dancers, and even missionaries. The production premiered on Broadway in 1950 and won a Tony Award for Best Musical. A film adaptation starring Frank Sinatra, Marlon Brando, and Jean Simmons premiered in 1955.

Playing the shifty, albeit redeemable, Nathan Detroit, Spencer Loessberg instantly proved himself a strong male lead. His vocal abilities were very solid and his chemistry with Miss Adelaide was hilariously believable with all of their heated squabbles. Speaking of the night singer, Abby Rozmajzl played the spunky Hot Box star to perfection. Her belting abilities were incredible and every twitch of the eyebrow and squeak of the voice was done with flawless comedic timing.

With equal leading stage time and magnetic charisma, Jacob Rozmajzl played the freewheeling Sky Masterson. Trapped into a bet that he couldn’t get a missionary sister out to dinner, Sky’s goal to charm the uptight Sarah Brown quickly unraveled as he found himself falling for her. Rozmajzl’s singing abilities were on par with those of professional performers. He was always quietly engaged on stage and had a presence that could not be ignored, and to his immense credit was impeccably consistent with his old New York style accent. Sarah Brown (Caleigh Davis) had just the right amount of sweetness to her and her gentle soprano voice suited the role perfectly.

Other standouts of the night included Big Jule (Joey Arzeno) the intimidating gangster from Chicago who had excellent deadpan lines, an intimidating presence, and a memorable straddle jump over Nathan in a men’s dance number. Nicely Nicely Johnson (J.J. Cummings) was also a crowd favorite with his flustered sincerity juxtaposing his gambler’s status. His shining moment came in “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat” where he proved himself an accomplished vocalist. The male ensemble as a whole was incredibly impressive with their commitment to lively characters and constant engagement on stage.

“Call it sad, call it funny. But it’s better than even money, that the guy’s only doing it for some doll.” Wedding bells rung and the card decks were pocketed in the end when it seemed, as it often does, that the dolls did the real work. With contagious enthusiasm and stand out vocalists, the Paul the VI Catholic High School players had lady luck (and a lot of hard work) on their side. This show is one that’ll leave you ringing like a bell and humming right along, you can bet on it.

by Emilia Brennan of Oakton High School

Photo Gallery

Max Snyder, Spencer Loessberg, JJ Cummings	Caleigh Davis, Jacob Rozmajzl
Abby Rozmajzl, Spencer Loessberg

Photos by Paul VI Catholic High School

This musical adaptation by Mary Rodgers of the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, “The Princess and the Pea” launched the career of the Queen of Farcical Comedy, Carol Burnet, who originated the role of Princess Winnifred when it opened off-Broadway in May 1959. The not-so-magical plot follows a jealous Queen who prevents her love-starved son from marrying by putting prospective brides to insurmountable tests. Since in her kingdom there is a strict marriage law, “Throughout the land no one may wed, ’till Dauntless shares his wedding bed,” the entire court is waiting for Princess Right to come along, however, after twelve Princesses have failed, it seems that no one is good enough to marry Prince Dauntless.

The jovial cast exuded effervescence and left not a dry moment on stage. In a storybook court filled with handsome knights, secret lovers, and everyone in between, the vocal prowess of the colorful ensemble shined in large numbers, while the commitment of each individual cast member infused the show with humor with every word.

As brash and unrefined Princess Winnifred from the marshlands, or Fred as she prefers to be called, Abigail Rozmajzl showcased infectious energy and extraordinary vocal range, and her dynamic onstage presence lit up the house. Her memorable initial appearance, after ostensibly swimming the castle moat, is in a huckleberry pink dress draped in seaweed, proving that this princess is certainly not “Shy.” Playing opposite Rozmajzl as Prince Dauntless was Alex Siegal, who shared playful chemistry and adorable compatibility with Rozmajzl. His mama’s boy attitude and childish exuberance had the audience in peels of laughter; he also showcased his excellent dancing and acrobatic ability during the high energy Spanish Panic.

Punctuating the scenes with robust singing and dexterous dancing was the Jester (Jacob Rozmajzl), in a ridiculous costume complete with three-pronged cap, displaying his impeccable comedic timing and impressive vocals. The domineering Queen Aggrivain (Kristen Washington) expresses her all-absorbing domination of her son with sour facial expressions and stormy rages. Brendon McAlvey’s mute King Sextimus communicates eloquently in pantomime, especially while explaining the birds and the bees to his overly naïve son. Further, a particularly successful ensemble with the Jester (Rozmajzl) and the Minstrel (Taylor Kiechlin) and McAlvey was showcased in a number where the trio declares that they have only two voices among them. Their timing is impeccable and speech is not necessary for McAlvey’s presence to shine.

Each technical element of the show enhanced the childlike, storybook aura of the production. Colorful medieval costumes and a playful castle set complemented the actors. Exaggerated arched eyebrows and red cheeks suited to each character was truly drawn from fairy tale inspiration. The stage crew moved gracefully through each transition, smoothly and effectively shifting large set pieces. Though at times some microphones made a few characters difficult to hear, all issues were minor and hardly effected the performances adversely.

With counting sheep, a secret handshake, and a little bit of magic, this zealous, lighthearted spectacle fit for royalty at Paul VI Catholic High School kept the audience wide awake and wishing for a happily ever after in a kingdom far far away.

by Roshni Gorur of Chantilly High School

Photo Gallery

Cast	Ensemble
Melissa Thiringer, Alexander Siegal, Caitlyn Kwallwasser, Aisling Hagerup, Isabella Whitfield, Laura Rowley, Abagail Rozmajzl, Kayla Bruni, Anna Sterbenz, Sarah Giuseppe, Ciara Corcoran	Abagail Rozmajzl
Ciara Corcoran, Abagail Rozmajzl, Kristen Washington

Photos by Katy Carlson

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

Hello, Dolly! follows the heartwarming story of Dolly Levi, the crafty matchmaker in Yonkers, New York. Traveling through New York, the audience follows three different love stories, all of which are endearing and genuine in their own right. From the Hay and Feed shop to Harmonia Gardens, the characters liven the stage in every way possible and captivate the audience from opening to closing.

In the title role of Dolly Levi, Sean Pugerude absolutely stole the show. Throughout every scene, Pugerude performed with poise, maturity, and absolute charm. Many times, one could have easily forgotten that the leading lady was not, in fact a professional actor, but rather a high school student. Not only did Dolly have the biggest purse on stage, but the biggest personality as well. Critical to the plot line, the devilishly delightful duo from the Hay and Feed shop, Cornelius and Barnaby (Daniel Rozmajzl and Connor McAlevy) brought a delightful mix of humor and sincerity to an already pleasurable show. The two were entirely committed to their characters and had flawless comedic timing, functioning as an outrageous and charming team. Their love interests, Minnie and Irene (Patty Kelleher and Casey Enochs), were another admirable ensemble, and were key to the sincere romance within the plot.

The ensemble in Paul VI Catholic High School’s show created realistic towns in New York and added a whole other dose of hilarity to the sensational tale of love and humor. With a host of subtle yet enjoyable gimmicks, the ensemble never detracted from the energy of the show, but rather enhanced it ten-fold. Perhaps the most delightful part of the ensemble was the waiters at the Harmonia Gardens restaurant. Their aerobatic antics were a sheer joy for the audience and were indeed one of the highlights of the show. Additionally, the inclusion of multiple adults to the ensemble was not only adorable, but helped the audience to see just how dedicated the cast members were to the show.

A pleasure from start to finish, Paul VI Catholic High School’s production of Hello, Dolly! fully embodied what viewers love theatrical productions to be. The show never faltered and maintained a high level of energy and humor throughout. As the show ended, the audience could not help but hope that “Dolly’ll never go away again!”

by Miranda Tower of West Springfield High School

Photo Gallery

Marcela Luna, Alexander Siegal, Kristen Washington, Anita Tellez-Mansy, Sean Pugerude, Timmothy Murphy, Andrew Hawkins, Aaron Frazier	Sean Pugerude, Jacob Rozmajzl, Elinor Curry
Patty Kelleher, Casey Enochs, Daniel Rozmajzl, Connor McAlevy	Jason Lockwood, Kevin Pucci, Brendan McAlevy, Alexander Siegal, Sean Pugerude, Andrew Hawkins, Andrew Shea, Jospeh Arzeno, Sean May
Full cast and crew

Photos by Katy Carlson

Happy Days is based on a popular television show with the same title, a show that many associate with the “King of Cool,” Arthur “The Fonz” Fonzarelli. In the musical, Richie Cunningham (Daniel Rozmajzl), Warren “Potsie” Webber (Dan Gilbert), Ralph Malph (Connor McAlevy) and Charles “Chachi” Arcola (Alex Siegal), a gang of awkward teenage buddies, accompanied by their idol, “The Fonz” (Jake Miller), try to save Arnold’s, the town’s most populated hang out, from a corporate buy out. Their plan: organizing a dance off and a wrestling match against the intimidating Malachi Brothers, Jumpy and Myron “Count” Malachi.

Several cast members stood out in Paul VI’s production. Sean Pugerude portrayed Richie’s mother, Marion Cunningham, at an almost professional level. Her voice was rich and mature, fitting the character well, and her perfectly timed reactions and expressions added another level of comedy to the show. Pugerude was able to craft a very unique character and acted in a very natural manner on stage.

In Act II, the principal women in the show, Pinky Tuscadero (Alexa Bechara), Joanie Cunningham (Casey Enochs) and Marion Cunningham (Sean Pugerude) came together beautifully for the song “What I Dreamed Last Night (reprise).” Their expressions, especially those of Pugerude, helped characterize each of the women’s passion for their individual dream. Their blend and musicianship was high quality, making the song moving and enjoyable.

The ensemble had high energy, rarely leaving character, with the exception of occasionaly looking into the audience and breaking the fourth wall. When the ensemble sang as a whole they had nice blend, tone, and diction.

The Paul VI Players conveyed the vividness of classic characters believably, and transported the audience to a simpler, more innocent time, where Arnold’s little diner was the center of life in an otherwise dull Wisconsin town. Paul VI’s Happy Days was bright, enthusiastic, and anything but dull.

by Doriana Thornton of Thomas A. Edison High School

Chief Inspector Jacques Clouseau is being hunted down by former Chief Inspector Charles Dreyfus for singlehandedly, unintentionally ruining his life. Dreyfus has a whole slew of evil plans to exterminate Clouseau: assassins in all shapes and sizes, an ingenious hunchback costume, and finally an extravagant doomsday machine of doom. Clouseau manages to keep his sparse amount of wits about him as he pursues Dreyfus to an abandoned castle for a final showdown.

Paul VI’s production drew us into an absurd world of extremes: extreme chaos, extreme love, extreme hatred, extreme laughter. Big characters and lively performances carried the lighthearted tale of gallantry and foolishness all the way through the hysterical finale.

Both Tommy Hodge and Jake Miller gave brilliant performances as Clouseau and Dreyfus respectively. The chemistry between the two was evident, and their combined charisma really ramped up the level of hilarity. Meghan Shea, who played Olga also captivated in her characterization of a love struck Russian assassin. Her delivery of her lines in an accent was almost flawless, adding a nice layer to the unique relationship between her and Clouseau.

The show was jam-packed with interesting featured and supporting actors. Cato (Juan Miguel Fernandez) and Jarvis (Paolo Umayam) both had the audience roaring with laughter at their extravagant antics. After all, it takes guts to be a good comic actor, especially as a man in a hot pink dress. Patty Kelleher deserves accolades for her small, but memorable role as Technician. Her vocal expression and timing was superb. The few minutes she had on stage, were minutes passed in side-splitting laughter.

Overall, the technical effects of the show were spot on. With only a few minor disruptions, the sound technicians worked flawlessly off the actors on stage. Effects were realistic, and almost exactly on time. The doomsday machine was the cherry on the cake, cleverly decorated and lighted. The sheer amount of costumes this show had is impressive. They were extremely pivotal in distinguishing the vast number of actors, many playing more than one role.

Paul VI Catholic High School’s The Pink Panther Strikes Again was a magnificent night of joviality and easy fun. With effortless cooperation, the production team put on a successful show.

by Lani Fu of Westfield High School

With a book by George Abbott and Douglass Wallop and music and lyrics by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross, Damn Yankees originally opened on Broadway at the 46th Street Theatre on May 5, 1955. The show is a musical comedy set during the 1950’s, a time when the New York Yankees were virtually unstoppable in Major League Baseball. Upset that his favorite team, the Washington Senators, cannot outplay the relentless Yankees, Joe Boyd makes a deal with the Devil in order to transform into a great baseball player and save his favorite team. After accepting the offer, Joe Boyd transforms into the young, talented, Joe Hardy and leaves his wife, Meg, in order to play for the team. Despite the success he enjoys, Joe soon realizes that he misses his wife, and life as a baseball superstar may not be everything he wanted.

Leading the cast as the satanic Mr. Applegate was Jason Donahoe. Donahoe’s smooth, commanding voice, arrogant charm and comedic timing made his devilish side quite believable. Acting opposite Donahoe as Lola, the Devil’s seductive assistant, was Dana Lindblad. Lindblad’s vocal performance was strong, especially in songs such as “A Little Brains, A Little Talent” and “Whatever Lola Wants.” Donahoe and Lindblad played nicely off each other in several scenes, managing to make evil comical.

Several members of the supporting cast and ensemble also offered strong performances. Alexandra Dent, who played the nosy reporter Gloria Thorpe, brought the stage to life during her song “Shoeless Joe from Hannibal, Mo.” Patrick McDonald also showed good commitment and character development as Joe Hardy, making songs such as “A Man Doesn’t Know” and “Two Lost Souls” quite memorable. While a few musical numbers lacked energy and commitment, others, especially those performed by the Washington Senators such as “Heart” and “The Game,” were lively and entertaining.

Paul VI struggled with a few technical aspects such as some long and frequent scene changes. Kasey Moore, Theresa Reynolds, and Liz Donahue‘s props and effects were impressive and included a bright flash as Mr. Applegate lit his cigarette. Many of the props were simple, yet effective on the already crowded stage.

Paul VI did a good job with this lengthy show, producing a lighthearted musical with many memorable moments.

by Samantha Henry of Westfield High School

Up the Down Staircase is the story of first year teacher Sylvia Barrett (Charlotte Schaner), a recent college graduate with a passion for the classics, who has come to teach at an inner-city high school in 1964. Throughout the play, she struggles with whether or not she’s really having an impact on the students, constant struggles with an absurd and bureaucratic school administration, and an implied relationship with another teacher, Paul Barringer (Jason Donahoe).

Charlotte Schaner played Sylvia Barrett with command. She expressed the character’s wide range of emotions, and was believable. She stood out particularly when she argued with the clear antagonist, the stern and irate administrator J.J. McHabe (Drake Johnson). Their relationship, though dysfunctional, was both funny and at times eye-opening.

A particular standout was Fiona Torres as Sylvia’s fellow teacher and mentor, Beatrice Schachter. Her portrayal was hilarious, and believable. Her physical acting was spot on, and her New York accent never wavered. She knew how to reign in her emotions for serious scenes, and always stayed in character.

The ensemble of students brought energy and life to the show. Though there was mostly comedy, there were moments when each student had his or her own life-changing moment. Their spirit really added to the production.

The sound had a few mishaps, but was more than made up for with excellent design, especially in the hilarious ‘assembly’ scenes. The intricate lighting was admirable, but was sometimes puzzling.

At times, some of the blocking was distracting, but the way the ensemble effectively delivered their lines outshone those few occurences.

Overall, Paul VI’s production of Up The Down Staircase was entertaining and engaging, and was a commendable performance.

by Leslie Berkowitz of Lake Braddock

Cast of Anything Goes

This is the story of stockbroker Billy Crocker. After learning that the love of his life Hope Harcourt was aboard the SS American, he sneaks on the ship with the help of a dangerous (or not-so-dangerous) “Moonface” Martin disguised as a priest, and his benevolent girlfriend Bonnie Letour. Also on board is nightclub sensation Reno Sweeny, a long time friend of Billy’s. She is determined to help Billy win Hope back, as well as find herself that true love she has been eagerly awaiting.

After premiering in New York City at the Alvin Theater on November 21, 1934, Anything Goes became the fourth-longest running show of the 1930’s. In 1987, Timothy Crouse and John Weidman updated the story and added new musical numbers to accommodate the Broadway stage. This version of the show was revived many a time after Broadway in London in 1989, and again in 2002.

As Reno Sweeny, Tracy Ramsay had no problem making the character her own. Not only was her acting impressive, but her singing and dancing were just as lively.

CJ Bergin, as Moonface, gave a flawless performance with a perfect execution of his mobster accent and idiosyncrasies. His stamina and confidence kept the energy flowing throughout. Hope MacDonald as Bonnie enthralled the audience with her singing and her delightful and almost flawless dancing solos. She displayed a winsome charm that blended beautifully with her fellow shipmates.

On the technical side, the lighting, designed by Katie Gorski and Hillary Dennison, was appropriately simple and well-timed. The professional-caliber set included two beautiful moving staircases, a revolving double door, and many other elaborate set pieces.

For a night full of “moonlight”, audiences must simply climb aboard the SS American in Paul VI’s production of Anything Goes. Bon Voyage!

Reviewed by Jose Pineda of Manassas Park.

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.