Leading the cast, Bateman’s portrayal of Macbeth complimented the stylistic theme of the play. Bateman reflected this unique Macbeth as a desperate, poor southern American in this futuristic, tumultuous land perfectly even when he first stepped on the stage. His embodiment of that themed archetype and energy brought the show to another level. Morton’s portrayal of Bateman’s opposite was enticing to watch as her raw instincts and choices were presented. The audience was carried on the emotional journey of Lady Macbeth as Morton subtly morphed her to the point of insanity. Though only heavily featured in the first three acts, Carlson’s performance as Banquo stole the show. The stage presence and naturalness of Carlson was astounding as she displayed a maturity in her craft beyond her years. Ian Peterson’s performance as Lord MacDuff was wonderfully heart-breaking as the audience could feel his despair permeate the air. The dedication, commitment, and thought Peterson made to his performance were clearly evident. The supporting actors of this production truly stole my attention and admiration.

The thought, emotion, and high-caliber of the backstage aspects of this show were above that of a typical high school performance. Adam Weiss’ composition for this production was hauntingly wonderful. He embodied the story and meaning so well that one could potentially only listen to his music for this show and still gain the full meaning and power of Macbeth. Sierra Carlson’s props, Aliya Qureshi’s hair and makeup, and Elizabeth Morton’s costumes all also displayed the same depth in consideration and portrayal of the story. Each piece was done intricately and interestingly so that it grabbed the audience’s eye yet congealed together to create unity in the atmosphere and style. The sound was easily heard throughout the show and the pre-recorded effects added an interesting and chilling twist to this stage play. It is very rare as much meaning and purpose put into technical aspects as Stone Bridge put in their production and the impact of this was powerful and deeply appreciated.

Stone Bridge High School’s interpretation of Macbeth is easily one of the most avant-garde Shakespeare productions on a high school stage. The time and dedication put into this show was truly evident and carried by the actors and technicians full-heartedly which allowed the modern style and tradition of Shakespeare to morph well. They have definitely achieved the chilling effect of a tragedy as a continued vision of the “golden round” moving on and on will surely continue to follow the audience members outside of the theater.

by Tessa Youngner of Heritage High School

In this adaptation by Joseph Robinette, based on the iconic C.S. Lewis novel, four children flee the Nazi bombings and seek out refuge in a relative’s countryside home. After Lucy, the youngest Pevensie child, discovers the mysterious wardrobe and its link to Narnia, she fetches the entire family to join her on an epic adventure. Crossing paths with the White Witch, Aslan, and a unique assortment of personalities, these four siblings successfully overthrow the evil witch and return peace and happiness to Narnia.

The four Pevensie children propelled the show forward with their unique characterizations and genuine interactions. Chris Sanderson quickly established Edmund’s stubborn personality by embracing his character’s impulsive tendencies. He took advantage of the script’s comedic opportunities and performed with consistent energy and individuality throughout the show. Alexandra Price similarly captured the juvenile spirit of her role, Lucy. Her childish innocence and sincere exchanges with each character created a genuine persona that was universally adored. Alex Gagliano and Sarah Reed brought a sophisticated aura to their characters that matured this youthful show.

With such a diverse collection of characters, it was only natural to have an extremely talented supporting cast. As the White Witch, Demery Schriver commanded the stage with an icy presence. Her deep bellowing voice, often juxtaposed with fawning enticement, energized the performance. Schriver’s commitment to her character, even through the play’s many foolish moments, was admirable. Sierra Carlson’s portrayal of Tumnus effectively contrasted with Schriver’s tyrannical character to lighten the mood. Carlson’s comedic physicality, especially her exaggerated gait, strengthened the role’s jocular personality. Other characters, most notably Mr. Beaver, Mrs. Beaver, and the Dwarf, thrilled the audience with their entertaining portrayals.

The production’s technical elements, most noticeably the multi-faceted set, awed the audience. With a breakable magic wand, a massive ice throne, clay hooves, and full-body makeup, every technical crew excelled. But what is a show-stopping performance without an audience? Stone Bridge’s marketing and publicity crew, comprised of Sarah Reed, Chris Sanderson, Jasmine Jellá, and Alexandra Price, ensured that this would not be an issue. These students packed the theater by organizing a preview performance at their local elementary school, advertising via their school, designing a stunning poster, and receiving public announcements from Hot 99.5, WGTS Radio, and Virginia Places.

Stone Bridge High School’s cast and crew truly embraced the imaginary and childish nature of the production. This attitude continued even through the curtain call, when each actor came on stage in character and joined together in a final cry “For Narnia!”

by Wesley Diener of James Madison High School

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

Anything Goes, music and lyrics by Cole Porter and a book by Guy Bolton and P. G. Wodehouse, was written in the 1930s as a relief from the woes of depression. It has become a well-beloved classic, a favorite choice for high schools and community theatres and revived several times on Broadway and in London.

As the story begins, Hope Harcourt (Natalie Martell) is sailing to London where she will be married to her fiancé of many years Sir Evelyn (Chris Sanderson). Before the boat sets sail she runs into Billy (Daniel Delaney), her true love. She spurns him and Billy turns to his friend Reno Sweeny (Tori Fantasia) to help him win back the love of Miss. Harcourt by seducing Sir Evelyn. Meanwhile, criminal Moonface Martin (Ian Peterson) dressed as a clergyman has escaped from the authorities and becomes entangled in the lover’s plotline when he volunteers to help Reno seduce Evelyn.

Ian Peterson shone in his role as Moonface. He mastered the over-the-top caricatures of the 1930s musicals in his mannerisms and loud New York accent. His talents extended to singing as well during “Friendship” with Reno and Billy, and his solo “Be like the Bluebird.” When the gun malfunctioned, he stayed perfectly in character and had the audience roaring with laughter with his recovery.

Tori Fantasia played a sultry Reno Sweeny, her jazzy voice charming the audience during such songs as “You’re the Top” (With Delaney), “Blow, Gabriel, Blow” and of course, the explosive titular tune “Anything Goes.” Her chemistry with Sanderson was sweet and believable, her booming stage presence complimenting his sweet, earnest portrayal. Martell and Delaney played the straight-men of the show while still managing to engage the audience with their innocent love in slower numbers such as “All Through the Night.”

The set was beautiful and well executed, if typical for the production. The production consisted of nearly 80 cast members, many of whom were wearing hand-made costumes. Several costumes were beautiful and enhanced the personality of the characters; however some of the ensemble costumes did not adhere to the time period. Though at times it was difficult to hear the actors and the lighting struggled during the second act, Stone Bridge High School produced a sparkling show that had the audience rolling in their seats and smiling long after the curtain had closed on the finale.

by Julia Timko of Albert Einstein High School

Photo Gallery

Hope (Natalie Martell) and Billy (Daniel Delaney)	Imran Malik, Reno (Tori Fantasia), Sir Evelyn (Chris Sanderson), and Alex Gagliano

Photos by Loan Jella

The play’s central character, Ralph (Jeffrey Davis), is fair-minded but pliable boy, and leads the other children in working towards rescue. At the same time, Jack Merridew (Nick Gagliano), a boys’ choir leader, is preoccupied with the idea of hunting and vies for power with Ralph. Davis and Gagliano create a tense dynamic, one representing the corruptible good in people and the other, the inherent evil. Gagliano gave a truly crazed (and loud) performance as he led his boys into savagery, but Davis’s equally honest and intense performance resonated with the remnants of innocence and good.

None of the development of neither Davis nor Gagliano would be possible without the performance of Celia Lechtman as Piggy. She successfully crossed gender lines to be the voice of reason that could have saved them, albeit the one that none of the boys wanted to hear. She, along with Heather Reed as Simon brought weight to the piece as they became victims to human savagery.

Reed’s performance was memorable yet disturbing as Simon grew frightened and confused at dark visions. The visions and voices, which may have been less impactful if only portrayed by an actor on stage, was magnified tenfold by a truly terrifying prop and appropriate lighting. The lighting throughout the show was consistent and effective, adding contrast especially to the conversations between the different groups of boys. Walker Lesan, Taylor Brake, and Brittany Couell, who were all responsible for sound and lights, did a cohesive job of adding details of reality and drama to every scene.

Sound and lights stood out in particular whenever the Island Spirits performed as an ensemble. The choreography by Olivia Howard, Kate O’Toole, and Lizzie Fulham incorporated elements of modern dance that translated well to the tribal feeling that the island took on. The Island Spirits were a new addition to the play, and they added a literal feeling to the changes that the boys encountered. They were the energy of the island and from beginning to end, seemed to assist the boys in whatever good or bad they desired to do.

Running Dog Productions remained professional, unique, and thoroughly entertaining in their performance. It was teeming with talent and creativity and became a superb rendition of a disturbing classic.

by Estelle Gong of Dominion High School

Photo Gallery

Celia Lechtman (Piggy) and Jeffrey Davis (Ralph)	Jacqueline Klancher (Maurice), Laura Van Dyke (School Boy), Kevin Buckley (School Boy), Elyse O’Rahilly (School Boy), Spencer Joyce (School Boy), Juli
Heather Reed (Simon)	Jeffrey Davis (Ralph), Celia Lechtman (Piggy), Suzie Clarke (Perceval), Nick Gagliano (Jack), Imran Malik (School Boy)
Imran Malik (School Boy), Tori Fantasia (Eric), Demery Shriver (Sam), Suzie Clark (Perceval), Celia Lechtman (Piggy)

Photos by James Squire.

Inspired by a 1934 play by George Kaufman and Moss Hart, Merrily We Roll Along premiered on Broadway in 1981. Although the musical won several awards, it closed after only sixteen performances. Written by George Furth and Stephen Sondheim (whose illustrious career spans five decades, eight Tony Awards, and dozens of productions), the musical moves backward through the life of composer Frank Shepard (Jason Francis). Frank is first introduced as an aging producer whose materialistic outlook on life has cost him his friends and family. But as we travel backward through the decades, we begin to meet the real Frank — the naive dreamer who sacrificed what he loved the most for a taste of success.

As if playing a lead in a Sondheim musical was not hard enough, Jason Francis was given the additional challenge of playing this role in a show that runs backward! Still, he rose to the challenge with aplomb. He portrayed Frank sincerely, creating honest relationships with his fellow actors.

Ryan Bardenett stole the show as Charley, Frank’s best friend and lyricist. His animated facial expressions and larger-than-life physicals were never more effective than during the hilarious “Franklin Shepard, Inc.” He was joined by Roopali Kulkarni as Frank’s long time friend Mary, whose unrequited love eventually leads to bitterness. Kulkarni’s portrayal of Mary was humorous yet appropriately sentimental, and her powerful voice contributed to her strong performance.

Despite the large size of the cast, ensemble numbers were energetic and cohesive. Choreography (Kaitlyn Palumbo and the Choreographic Team) was well-executed by both dancers and the ensemble. In addition, dancers and ensemble members helped move various set pieces throughout the production. Although the stage crew worked efficiently, transitions handled by members of the cast were much smoother and less noticeable. Several standout performers created memorable characters despite their modest roles. Particularly hilarious were Nick Barta and Kaitlyn Palumbo as persistently optimistic TV anchors, in spite of the horrific news they announced.

Creative lighting solutions — from handheld flashlights to dramatic spotlights — added visual interest to the production. A brightly lit cyclorama changed colors to fit the tone of the show. Some sound difficulties persisted throughout the performance, but actors compensated for uncooperative microphones by quickly raising their voices to be easily heard.

The year is 1957. Charley and Frank are young, broke, and idealistic. As they sit on the roof of their apartment building, they discuss the future. Much like the high school students portraying them, these characters know little of what the next years hold. But one thing is for certain. Life will keep rolling merrily along.

Elisabeth Bloxam of Westfield High School.

Robb Barwis, Jeannette Huggler, Jeff Davis, Sam Lade, Heather Reed, Lindsey Cochran, and Xabi Mugica	Alex Gagliano, Spencer Joyce, Celia Lechtman, Harper Franklin
Jason Francis, Roopali Kulkarni, Ryan Bardenett

Photos provided by Stone Bridge High School Photographers.

This 1930’s “screwball comedy” by George F. Kaufman and Moss Hart delves into the lives of the not-so-sane Sycamore family. In the midst of their crazy antics, they are taken aback when Alice Sycamore finds herself a straight-laced fiancé, Tony Kirby, who, with his uptight parents, unexpectedly come to Sycamore household. Once they arrive, the Kirbys realize they’ve entered into a world completely different than their own; however, this initial surprise is nothing compared to the madness that ensues as the night goes on.

Through highly innovative technical and performance elements, Stone Bridge perfectly captured the essence of this classic play. The majority of the actors were completely committed to their characters; some even created accents which were greatly amusing, but most importantly, consistent throughout the show. Not only was the comedic timing of the actors nearly impeccable, but the technicians were also able to perfectly follow the comedic beats of the show with their moving set pieces, adding a brand new element to this naturally hysterical show.

The energy of the cast never faltered and the actors were successful in the portrayal of their characters. The show’s lead actress Samantha Teran (Alice) was able to successfully portray the “straight” character in the midst of all the caricatures of the show. Also, Jason Francis (Martin Vanderhof) was consistent with his vocal choices and effectively delivered his comedic lines.

The entire Sycamore household worked seamlessly as an ensemble and all the actors added hilarious quirks to their characters. Meghann Parkinson (Penelope Sycamore), however, stood out above all the others. Parkinson not only made daring vocal and physical choices throughout the show, but she never once dropped character and delivered every line and mannerism naturally and hilariously.

Erik DeLong (Boris Kolenkhov) also showed complete commitment as the highly eccentric Russian ballet instructor. DeLong certainly was not afraid to take risks; he was even able to dance on top of a table in a unitard without a moment of hesitation.

The most successful technical element of this production was undoubtedly the set. John Darr and Rachel Martin designed and constructed the Sycamore household with moving stairs, rotating walls, and revolving doors. A plethora of different knick-knacks and furniture pieces were also included to add to the eccentricity of the household.

The other technical elements of the show also successfully enhanced the production value of Stone Bridge’s show. Several costumes were beautifully constructed; however some did not accurately portray the time-period; and although the make-up allowed the audience to clearly distinguish the actors’ faces, their ages were not always so distinguishable.

Stone Bridge High School’s production of You Can’t Take It With You left the audience with the memory of an extremely enjoyable night they could take with them.

by Vanessa Bretas of McLean High School

Such was the exciting and dangerous world created in Stone Bridge High School’s production of Chess. Released first as a concept album in 1984, the musical story of a love triangle during a Soviet-US chess competition was composed by Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Anderson of ABBA fame, with lyrics by Tim Rice. It has since spawned numerous productions all across the globe. Stone Bridge’s cast and crew confronted the difficult musical with enthusiasm and talent and delivered an entertaining performance.

There were several standouts among the many leading roles, which demanded high-difficulty vocal and dramatic efforts from the actors. As Florence, the woman caught in the middle of the conflicting chess champions, Kristen Rencher displayed not only impressive vocal control and range but an emotionally powerful performance. Standing out in numbers such as “Someone Else’s Story” and “Heaven Help My Heart,” she proved herself well up to the task. As Freddie, the American champion, Ben Palmer excelled as the highly unlikeable character with his strong stage presence, interacting strongly with each of the other actors.

As Anatoly, the defecting Soviet player, Aaron Pendola captured the immense internal struggles endured by his character in the powerful Act-1 ending “Anthem.” In addition, as the Arbiter, Erik Delong provided a highly entertaining character whose vocal talents shone in each of his musical numbers. As Svetlana and Molokov, respectively, Sammie Teran and Jason Francis stood out with their impressive Russian accents, strong emotional expression, and exciting vocals.

The set, with its chessboard theme and consistent use of black and white, provided an interestingly appropriate backdrop for the action occurring onstage. The costumes, though occasionally inconsistent, gave the audience a good feel for style in the Cold War 80’s. The choreography, which demanded high levels of dancing prowess from the cast, matched well with the music, though sometimes proved a little too difficult in certain numbers.

Sound was adequate for most of the show, and only occasionally was interrupted with moments of microphone silence. In large choral numbers, however, the leading vocals overpowered those of the cast, and could have benefited from lowered levels. They were never overpowered by the well-prepared orchestra, however, which could have even been slightly louder in certain situations.

Overall, Stone Bridge’s production of Chess featured a well-rehearsed cast and crew that tackled an extremely difficult production with talent and determination and provided a highly entertaining musical experience.

by Kelly Snow of West Springfield