By: Kaitlin Zambotti, Eastern Regional High School, Voorhees
MOUNT HOLLY, N.J. — She can solve equations with her eyes closed, and he’s been shooting hoops for as long as he can remember. But what if their hearts long for the stage as well? It’s time to “Get’cha Head in the Game” for Rancocas Valley Regional High School’s production of High School Musical, which did anything but “Stick to the Status Quo.”
High School Musical was written by Peter Barsocchini and released as a Disney Channel Original Movie in 2006, later to be adapted into a stage production with a book by David Simpatico and music arrangements by Bryan Louiselle. It’s story follows growing tensions between numerous cliques at the fictional school East High after basketball star Troy Bolton and science-loving Gabriella Montez decide to audition for the winter musical together.
Rancocas Valley’s production leaned into the well-known campy nature of the film to create a show that was energetic, fun, and hilarious. Each ensemble member stayed in character and executed bold student-created choreography that added liveliness to the show. The addition of Rancocas Valley’s real cheerleading squad was a creative touch, and the group’s stunts captivated the crowd from the flashy opening number to the final mega mix.
Bradley Fowler and Lily Mount had fabulous chemistry on stage as Troy and Gabriella, and their voices blended well together in every duet. Additionally, Chloe Swanson captured Sharpay Evans with pointed characterization while giving the audience a raw view into the queen bee’s vulnerability. Her dynamic with her twin brother Ryan (Emma Risell) was also nothing short of entertaining.
Risell realistically portrayed Ryan’s growth throughout the show as the character went from Sharpay’s hapless sidekick to Troy and Gabriella’s sympathetic ally. Furthermore, Isaiah Bull played East High’s quirky school announcer Jack Scott with plenty of wit, and his relationship with the aspiring playwright Kelsi Neilsen (Quinn Mattio) was particularly sweet. Mattio’s performance and costuming reflected Kelsi’s arc throughout the show as she came out of her shell to stand up for her friends and her art. Of course, High School Musical would be nothing without…well, the musical! Keira Dallos infused fun and dramatic energy into her depiction of Ms. Darbus, the spirited drama club director.
East High was brought to life in colorful detail by Rancocas Valley’s stage crew team, whether the characters were hanging out at their lockers, belting about their passions in the cafeteria, or sharing heartfelt conversations alongside the string lights and roses on the gorgeously-designed rooftop garden. The subtle lighting changes in every scene fit appropriately with the modern setting, and the spotlights effectively followed all actors in order to keep each person lit.
Ultimately, Rancocas Valley’s production was the “Start of Something New” and served to remind the audience about the importance of following your heart, even if other people don’t want you to. In the end, “We’re All in This Together” and everyone deserves a chance to shine.
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