ALL SHOOK UP presented by Northern Kentucky University through Feb. 26. Click here for more information on the production. I attended the opening Sunday matinee performance.
The Cast.
The songs of Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll, take center stage in the jukebox musical, ALL SHOOK UP at Northern Kentucky University.
The cast of 25 showcases the depth of talent in NKU’s theater program. Soloists were strong across the named roles with Brittany Hayes’ “There’s Always Me” being a personal favorite. The harmonies on the Act I finale, “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” were goosebump-inducing and a great way to send the audience into intermission.
Melissa Cathcart as Natalie Haller & Xander Wells as Chad.
Director Brian Robertson wisely goes broad in the performance-style, emphasizing both the comedy and the relationships in the book.
The simple, multi-level set allowed for quick entrances and exits, especially when the whole ensemble was involved in a number. The screens upstage served as a nice backdrop and added a bit a color to the scenes.
Aaron Marshal as Dennis & Ellie Chancellor as Miss Sandra.
The concept of a completely black and white color scheme for the costumes was successful and an impressive amount of work. The only one I misinterpreted was Dean Hyde’s outfit, thinking he was the Mayor’s chauffeur until he was introduced as her son. Perhaps some black accents would have helped it read a bit more military.
It was great to have the 11-piece orchestra, under the direction of Jamey Strawn, visible on stage and the sound was rich and full. Speaking of sound, hats off to sound designer Kevin Havlin and his team. The blend, balance, and execution were outstanding. I’m pretty sure I heard every word and note.
Overall, the production was highly energetic and highly enjoyable.
My rating: 4.25 out of 5.
The Cast.
HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, KY – Northern Kentucky University | School of the Arts | Program of Theatre and Dance has selected the two plays that will receive their world-premiere productions this April in the 18th Biennial YEAR END SERIES (Y.E.S.) FESTIVAL. Performances will take place in the Corbett and Stauss Theatres in the Fine Arts Center.
ALL SHOOK UP
HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, KY – Commonwealth Theatre Company at Northern Kentucky University is proud to announce our 2017 Summer Dinner Theatre season. Performances begin in June 2017. Tickets on sale in March 2017.
Commonwealth Theatre Company is excited to share their 2017 Summer Dinner Theatre season! We open in June with THE 39 STEPS, a zany stage adaptation of a Hitchcock Thriller. In July, the team that brought you CHURCH GIRLS presents another kooky musical comedy — BURGERTOWN!
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 