As the background music of the Les Misérables reprisal fades to silence and the lights dim to black, dressed to impress, junior Jacob Reynolds, takes the stage and delivers a splendid rendition of “ Can You Feel the Love tonight”.  Reynolds’ Elton-esque performance was just one of many fabulous spectacles featured in the drama and choral departments’ joint production of Show Stoppers. The show took place on April 25 and 26, producing two full-length performances and one condensed version for the student body.

Due to my unnatural appreciation for school productions, I attended both Friday performances and was absolutely delighted.  The performers were charming, the costumes dazzling, and melodies riveting.  I especially enjoyed the Footloose and Chicago numbers.  The performers of “Cell Block Tango” were not only fantastic musicians, but also extremely comical and remained tasteful despite the song’s sensuous nature.  On another note, sophomore Harrison Strouse delivered an exuberant performance as the lead in “Footloose”.  Strouse conveyed a boyish charm worthy of giggles and the number as a whole perfectly captured the carefree essence associated with the musical’s title track.

Another noteworthy segment was junior Mary Quin’s rendition of “On My Own” from the acclaimed musical Les Misérables. Quin’s performance was nothing short of awe-inspiring.   She exuded the passion of an improbable love and lulled the audience into a stupor.

My only complaints were the setting was a bit bare and with the exception of a few numbers the dancing was a tad lack luster.  Also, the transitions lacked fluidity.  However, the aforementioned slight grievances did not distract from the performance in its entirety.  Overall, the musical was wonderful.  The talent present in the choral and drama departments never ceases to startle and please.