The show opens with Bob Wallace (Mark Messmer) and Phil Davis (Charlie Moody) singing for the troops of the 151st Division. Throughout the entirety of the performance, both Messmer and Moody displayed outstanding chemistry between each other. It is completely believable that the two are good friends through their performance. Playing opposite the two men are Betty (Katherine Potts) and Judy (Emma McCann) Haynes. Potts displayed lovely vocals and a strong, independent woman through her portrayal of Betty, and McCann proved to be a triple threat by excelling in the areas of vocals, acting, and dance. Other standouts within the performance include the strong-willed Martha Watson (Emily Jean Henry), General Henry Waverly (Jack Ruzicka), and, of course, Ezekiel Foster (Jake McCann).

Even though the principle characters lit up the stage with their impeccable vocal abilities, it was when the ensemble joined them that the true energy of the production could be felt. All members of the ensemble seemed like they truly enjoyed being onstage, and none of them lacked a single ounce of energy. Two ensemble members stood out in the performance. Bridget Biundo and Naomi Walsby excelled in the numerous tap numbers within the show, and both had excellent stage presence. Both seem to have great knowledge of many types of dance, and many encomiums should be given to both the choreographer of the show and to their private dance instructors.

The technical aspects of the show enhanced the overall performance greatly as well. The light cues were precise and sound cues were never late. The microphones the actors used provided clear sound, but at times they were either too loud or they would cut in and out. Despite this minor flaw, the sound aspect proved to be one of the best. One technical aspect that should be recognized is the set itself. In order to make quick and easy set changes, the set was designed to fold in on itself, with different scenes on either side of the flat. This creative design proved to be very impressive and invaluable to the overall flow of the performance.

The cast and crew at Notre Dame High School should be very proud of their accomplishments through White Christmas. The overall show was truly a wonder to behold, and many will be singing the songs until next Christmas.

by Mario Meyer of Bishop DuBourg

Many actors and actresses had the opportunity to shine by filling the production’s many leading and supporting roles. Notably, Mark Messmer as Wiggins and Charlie Moody as Ashbottom had stage chemistry and were able to drive the show forward. Renee Molner as Olivia Hudson shined through her subtle and realistic acting skills, and Carolina de Legarreta successfully played a highly comedic and lovable character. While Jayme Bodi as Sherlock Holmes and Jordan Lambay as Watson were not granted much stage time, their intent to portray these icons subtly was evident. Even Jack Zimmerman as Professor Moriarty had outstanding physicality and Katherine Potts as Natalia effervesced with energy and drive.

Murder at 221B was very much conducive to a large cast, giving many players a moment to shine. Wil Spaeth as Cragsworthy and Adam Kaul as Hutch skillfully opened the first act, demonstrating deft maneuvering around the intricate set. While Rachel Rone as Jenny Lyons had a stunning stage presence, Bridget Biundo as Roxanne played a convincing femme fatale and Caroline Knese as Lady Weston showed off her diverse acting skills by successfully portraying the intricate character. Even Lauren Lundy and Allison Moser as Mona and Mona provided a comedic background with their tomfooleries, and Erin Kramper and Rachel Marinaro as Sapphire Ring and Ruby Ring brought energy and strong character choices to the stage. The cast was rounded out by the cameo players in their brief yet promising performances.

The intricate set, depicting Holmes’ apartment at 221B Baker Street, framed the story beautifully, and the props proved to be a professional technical aspect of the play. The female principal’s costumes were not only well-tailored but very much indicative of the respective characters’ personalities, and both the lighting and the sound design and execution raised the production to the next level.

In addition to the actors’ remarkable dexterity at maneuvering around the intricate set, the players proved deft at performing the numerous exits and entrances, whether through one of the multiple doors, one of the windows or the smoking fireplace. The cast’s approach to the daunting task of utilizing accents was very much commendable and quite a few players successfully brought energy and drive to the production.

Notre Dame High School’s première production of Murder at 221B served to entertain and was full of remarkable talent and well-designed and executed technical aspects. Detective Holmes himself would agree that the production exceed the “elementary.”

by Carly Beard of Clayton High School

The music of the show is by Jeanine Tesori with lyrics by Dick Scanlan. It tells the tale of a small-town girl who comes to The Big Apple to marry for money instead of love, which is a radical new modern idea. Millie soon falls for the flapper lifestyle, but problems arise when she checks into a hotel with a hidden agenda and falls for someone other than her boss.

Carly Uding, who plays the flashy and cheery Millie Dillmount, takes the stage by storm with her strong presence and high energy. Her spunk and zeal highlight the best qualities of the twenties with her flashy and bubbly character. Her portrayal of a small town girl caught up in the exciting atmosphere of big city life goes well with her costar, Bryant Woods, who plays the witty and charming Jimmy Smith. Woods brings color and flavor to the piece with his earnestness and excellent stage presence. Woods, as Jimmy, creates a lively atmosphere with his fantastic energy and clarity.

Claire Zimmerman is high in theatrics and liveliness as the comical Mrs. Meers. Zimmerman’s strong vigor as Meers is attention grabbing and entertaining with her over-the-top characterization and keen appeal. The dazzling Muzzy Van Hossmere is played by the charming Katherine Potts, whose bright portrayal of her character brought glamour and brilliance to the musical with her showy costumes and upbeat personality. The charm of Trevor Graydon is evident in J. P. de Lagaretta as he waltzes across the stage with zeal and a charismatic characterization. Lagaretta is strong and clear onstage as the delightful Graydon with his bright theatrics. The cute Dorothy Brown (Jennifer Burghoff) is sunny and sweet with a warm appeal to the heart. Burghoff is bright and jazzy as the seemingly naïve Dorothy. Her honest spunk is lighthearted and innocent.

The New York skyline is the dazzling backdrop, surrounded by other incredible sets that capture the freshness and brilliance of the decade. The sets are beautifully done and help create the lively atmosphere. The bright flapper costumes are flashy and glamorous and grab attention with their shine and sparkle. The charming costumes of the cast are appealing and attractive. The orchestra was upbeat with high energy and enthusiasm that kept the show moving and animated throughout.

Though at times the spotlights could be a bit off, the overall light work is clear and vivid, with the full stage lit up to really capture the moment. When the ebb of the show seemed to be slowing, the dancers really picked up the energy and brought pizzazz to the stage with glamour and lighthearted presences. Overall, the cast was high energy with strong enthusiasm that showed through the dazzling dance numbers and set work.

Thoroughly Modern Millie recaptures the bright life of the twenties with sweet romance and light comedy, and everyone knows, it’s “sad to be all alone in the world.”

by Sarah Barger of Marquette High School

John Proctor (Thomas Hederman) and Elizabeth Proctor (Carly Uding) were two of the strongest characters in the cast. They both had continuous energy, and never broke character, even when the attention wasn’t on them. Reverend John Hale (J.P. De Legarreta) did very well in going from calm and accepting of how things were, to being very aggravated with the situation.

Judge Hawthorne (Thomas DePriest) was also very strong emotionally. His transition of emotions was always spot on.

The lighting of the show was used very well to show what time of day it was, or the mood of the scene. There were times when you would forget that the background was black and white, because lighting was used to make it seem to be in full color. In the first act, sometimes the microphones would not turn on in time, making it hard to hear, but it was much better in the second act.

In some parts, it was hard to hear characters, due to their mics not being on consistently, or their backs being turned to the audience. Also, in group scenes, a lot of the characters would seem to not be paying attention. They would break character, and simply look bored, and it was a bit distracting. Though this would only happen part of the time, and often they were very engaged in what was going on.

Overall, Notre Dame High School did very well. With an intense climax, and a chilling closing line, this show was definitely one to remember.

by Rain Northrop of Francis Howell North