By Holly Gould
The Avonlea Theater Company’s production of Valhalla! A Nordic Rock Opera is a fierce, funny, and epically entertaining show at the Angelus Theatre in Spanish Fork. This high energy show was written and produced by local playwright Stephen Gashler, who also wrote the music and lyrics, and plays the title role. The project started by a Kickstarter campaign, and grew first into an album, then music videos, and has moved on to its very first staging.
Director Matthew Davis brings a highly energetic and enthusiastic cast to tell a tale of battle and plunder as they overcome their enemies in search of new lands to conquer. Great adventure awaits in the unknown journey, and the Norsemen look forward to success in war, but if not, they seek to die gloriously in battle with the promise of Valhalla, the greatest and most noble heaven of their Norse gods.
In true rock opera fashion, the music is big and bold. Guided by musical director Zach Hansen, heavenly melodies help us feel the hope that Valhalla is near. On your feet anthems keep the audience’s energy soaring. Pounding drums bring us to battle with the onstage warriors and hope filled ballads touch hearts. Onstage musicians John Cassler and Joe Cassler (drums and guitar) are skilled and add a special energy to the story.
Simplicity is the name of the game when it comes to the technical aspects of the show. Sarah Bobby Hinckley’s set design is beautifully simple, which allows the actors to be the ones telling the story. Her lighting cues give the audience moments of visual satisfaction. Costuming (Rhonda Seiter) is clever and effective in “We are the Slain”, and choreography by Bethany Taylor brings just the right amount of strength and softness to emphasize the story, and the perfect amount of cheesy comedy when called for.
Sven (S. Gashler) is on a quest with his fellow soldiers when they attack a Saxon convent. To aid in his escape, he kidnaps one of the nuns, Mary, played by Maren Hansen. Searching for his father, Sven finds new purpose and meaning in his quest that goes above and beyond raiding and pillaging. S. Gashler is convincing in his role as a Norse warrior, with vocals that grow with his character through the show. He walks the line perfectly between battling with purpose and finding compassion for his captive. He has great vocal moments during “What Doesn’t Kill You”, which is the perfect rock anthem.
Hansen is the vocal standout of the show, with technical skill that beautifully emulates the essence of her religious character. Showing humility in her role as a servant of God, Mary is still no pushover. She can fiercely wield a sword when necessary to preserve her own life, or even the life of her captor. Her compassion is the key to softening Sven’s heart.
The Valkyrie are played by the trio of Teresa Gashler, Michelle Whitney, and Amanda Ruth Wilson. Showing both power and love, “Ride, Maiden Warriors” is full of blessedly beautiful harmonies. This number gives us a glimpse into the femininity of the Valkyrie warriors and provides a welcome break from the pounding beat of war drums.
Ed Watts gives some memorable moments during the performance, both creepily chilling as Sir Hector who longs for, and eventually tries to force the affections of Mary, and as the powerful Norse god Odin. Another standout is Jason Nordin, who plays Father Sven and Thor. Nordin shows strength and power through his deep, strong vocals.
My favorite number of the night is “Where Have You Gone?”. Departing from most of the music of the evening, this unexpected song brings S. Gashler and Hansen together in beautiful harmonies with each character searching for the gods that they believe in to give them hope and direction when feeling abandoned and alone. I felt that it was a beautiful reminder of a human need for connection with a higher power.
Valhalla! A Nordic Rock Opera is a fun, high energy show of epic proportions. Bring the whole family for a night filled with bold and rowdy music, brilliant battles, unexpected moments of reflection, and lots of laughs. Avonlea Theater Company only has four more performances at The Angelus Theatre in Spanish Fork, so get your tickets, and let’s go to Valhalla!
Avonlea Theater presents Valhalla! A Nordic Rock Opera, Book and Music by Stephen Gashler.
Angelus Theatre, 165 North Main Street, Spanish Fork, UT, 84660
November 11,15-16,18, 2019 7:00 PM preshow included with ticket, 7:30 PM show
Tickets $11 Adults, $9 Students and Seniors, $40 immediate family (up to 6 people), 10% discount with coupon code “stepheng”
Avonlea Theater Facebook Page
Angelus Theatre Facebook Page
Valhalla! A Nordic Rock Opera Facebook Event
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