ENTERTAINMENT
Birth of a Prodigy
MUSICALS: “42nd Street” sparks off the second semester as the final contribution of Mr. Randy Olea.
Lucas Shim & Jessica Eusebio | Entertainment Department
March 22, 2018
Come and meet those dancing feet.
Mr. Randy Olea and the Van Nuys High School Actors in Action presented “42nd Street: Musical Theater’s Love Letter to Broadway” on March 8, 9, 10, 15, 16 and 17 in the Donna Hubbard Auditorium.
Based on the original 1980 Broadway production, the Van Nuys High School adaptation of “42nd Street” takes place in 1933 during the Great Depression. The story revolves around Peggy Sawyer (Alexis Davidson), who arrives in New York City to audition for the hit-Broadway show, Pretty Lady. After the leading star, Dorothy Brock, (Clara Pierone) is injured on set, director Julian Marsh (Darian Calderon) has no choice but to utilize the hidden talents of Peggy Sawyer herself.
The show was divided into two acts: one where Sawyer begins her training with the other performers, and the second where she must take on Brock’s role as the lead star.
The play consisted of exceptional performances and portrayals by the students themselves.
Pierone’s portrayal as Brock displayed the characteristics of arrogance and egotism, and audiences were able to capture the reflection of her character in an antagonistic view.
Calderon’s performance as Julian Marsh was phenomenal as the actor spoke with a New York accent while revealing self-centered qualities. As he prioritizes the Broadway business more than his performers, his ideals often conflict with Sawyer and other characters.
Davidson’s portrayal as Peggy Sawyer was remarkable as the actress captured the determination of a girl with a big dream of making it in New York. From an eager girl who couldn’t sympathize with other performers’ perspectives to a wondrous woman who took on the role of the lead star, Davidson serves as the guiding light that displays the characteristics of aspiration and optimism.
“I loved the rehearsals because I got to get to really know everyone. Some people in the musical I haven’t talked to since elementary school, but being in that musical it was like we never stopped talking. Being in that musical felt like I gained a second family. It was a lot of dedication, but I loved every minute of it.” – Lead Actress Alexis Davidson
The show was also backed by the musical performances of Mr. Robert Eisenhart’s Pit Orchestra, which included saxophones, flutes, horns, trumpets and many more.
The Actors in Action delivered a powerful performance. The music, dance, costumes, set design, and storyline provided audience with an astonishing taste of broadway.
After 12 years in Van Nuys High School, Mr. Olea will be departing from the school after this semester, making “42nd Street” a memorable showing because it represents his final works as the drama teacher.
Lucas Shim is currently the Entertainment Editor for The Mirror. He joined during his sophomore year and is now in his second year publication as a junior.
Other than contributing to journalism, his hobbies include binge-watching movies and TV shows, brainstorming story ideas and writing screenplays for his future career as a screenwriter. He is also a volunteer at Pet Orphans of Southern California, where he socializes and walks dogs. When it comes to politics, Lucas chooses to remain open-minded regarding political parties and their ongoing governmental debates.
Jessica Eusebio is an entertainment writer for The Mirror. She joined during her junior year and is currently a junior now. This is her first year working for the publication.
Her articles are typically about movies and television shows. She enjoys watching a lot of movies, specifically Disney/Pixar and Marvel movies. She favors watching psychological based television shows. She also enjoys watching paint dry on her spare time.
FacebookInstagramTwitter
