Last Friday night, the Twentynine Palms High School drama department opened “13, A New Musical.” Reporter Rebecca Havely was there and offers this review…
When I heard the words “a new musical” in the show title, “13, A New Musical,” a show written just for teens, I must admit my expectations weren’t very high. But I must say I was very pleasantly surprised. The music is and lyrics are by Jason Robert Brown the book is by Dan Elish and Robert Horn. It’s really funny with some witty bits mixed with wacky humor too. The story is of Evan, a young Jewish New Yorker transplanted to a small Indiana town. He desperately tries to make friends with the cool kids at the new school, hoping they will attend his upcoming Bar Mitzvah. Instead he is befriended by a couple of nice, but nerdy, classmates.
Ethan Flores portrays Evan. He’s likable in the role and sings with clear, even tone. We root for him throughout his quest. His geeky, shy gal-pal Patrice is sweetly portrayed by Dana Mahelona-Rogers whose poppy voice has some nice range. Archie is adorable, played by Herman Johnson. He walks on crutches in his role as a terminally ill kid with an upbeat attitude, has a huge, dimpled smile and nice comic timing. Z107.7’s own Taylor Thacker plays Lucy, the girl we all love to hate as the back-stabbing, boyfriend-stealing best friend. She’s got lots of sass and a good strong voice. Amber Flores plays the pretty, air-headed cheerleader well, in a love triangle with the school’s top jock Brett, also played well by heart-throb Rodell Laranang. Brett’s two sidekick homies make up a dynamic singing and dancing duo as Malcolm and Eddie played by Eduardo Basil and Jennica Pilayan.
The team of directors is made up of teachers, students and alumni. Student Scott Clinkscales does a noteworthy job with his first turn as musical director. Math teacher Elysia Mullen has done an exceptional job with her upbeat, fun choreography. The entire cast and chorus perform with high energy throughout the show. There’s lots of laughs and the cast’s joy is contagious. If you have plans to see “13, A New Musical,” prepare to have a great time. If you haven’t made plans to see it, make them now!
“13 A New Musical” has performances this Friday, April 10, and Saturday, the 11, both at 7 p.m. Tickets are available at the door of the multi-purpose room at Twentynine Palms High School. Tickets are $12, general admission; students, seniors and military are $10; kids 10 and under pay $8 each.
WE REVIEW “13 A NEW MUSICAL” AT TWENTYNINE PALMS HIGH SCHOOL
