By Dr. LeGrand and Mary Anne Andersen, guest reviewers
After a year and a half of no live theater, we took our seats to see Cedar Valley Community Theatre’s (CVCT)production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame at the Heritage Theatre in Cedar City. We weren’t disappointed. Of all the deprivations associated with Covid 19, the hardest one for us was the lack of live theater.
The Hunchback of Notre Dame is based on the Victor Hugo novel and Disney film of the same name. The audience watches as Quasimodo (Trevor Walker)discovers “what makes a monster, and what makes a man” in this powerful production. Narrated by various characters, you watch the interactions between commoners, gypsies, priests, and outcasts. If you listen carefully, you will hear what it is the bells of Notre Dame are trying to tell you.
From the first note, we knew we were in for a treat with the live orchestra. It is a great assembly of Southern Utah University students and some seasoned community players. Most opening night performances have some bobbles. It must be said that the practiced, professional hand of conductor Carylee Zwang allowed for no jitters. It would be difficult to find someone with a more confident, contagious air. The instrumentalists obviously trust her.
The vocals from this incredible cast are equally strong. The singers in this production are well matched, with no one character taking a back seat. Kudos to Ashley Stackhouse for producing such a tight ensemble sound that gives place for all of the numbers to be enjoyable and moving.
SUU student Ashlee Brouwer sings Esmeralda beautifully,with an intense, resounding conviction. “God Help the Outcasts” was truly remarkable. Dean Jones as the flawed priest and Conner Thornton as the hapless soldier Phoebus are equal partners with Brouwer. Thornton and Brouwer’s duet of “Someday” carries such emotion and a hopeful message that brings chills, tears, or both. Walkeras Quasimodo is simply outstanding. His strong vocals are showcased in almost every number he sings, especially in the heartbreak of the awakening Hunchback. Tristan Gulley’svocals and characteras the gypsy Clopin effortlessly carry the tale with humor and confidence. Quasimodo’s friends: the misshapen gargoyles, with their unique movements and distinct characteristics, they are positively delightful and an integral part of Quasimodo’s small world and his great journey. The harmonies they bring in “Top of the World” are rich and simply stunning. A powerful off-stage choir (directed by Danny Hansen) bolsters the actors throughout the entire show.
This show doesn’t rely on dancing, but it is clear that choreographer Torri Adams made sure the dance numbers were well-rehearsed, and they play a beautiful part in the character development, especially in the gypsy group.
The well-utilized one-set show by scenic designers Julie Griffin and William Sizemore includes large matching staircases, a walkway, and wheeled scaffolding. The large stained-glass window dominates the stage, reminding us that the cathedral itself is an influence that the characters cannot quite break free of. Director Stephen Wagner’s blocking of the useful set showcases his extensive experience and allows the audience to see the pertinent characters and hear their lines clearly. It also grants additional meaning and symbolism to the opening and closing scenes in light of the 2019 fire devastating the iconic Notre-Dame cathedral, along with its survival and restoration.
Cedar City brings excellent theater to the southern Utah community. The influence of Southern Utah University’s music and theater departments, along other local theater organizations and festivals contribute to a small town that is theater rich, and CVCT adds a wonderful place for community members to enjoy participating in it all.
Cedar Valley Community Theater presents The Hunchback of Notre Dame, book by Peter Parnell, and music and lyrics by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz, based on the Victor Hugo novel and Disney film.
The Heritage Theater, 105 N 100 E, Cedar City, UT 84720
June 4-5, 7, 10-11, and 12, 7:30 PM
Tickets: $15 Adults, $10 Children, Students, and Seniors, General Admission
cvct.online
Cedar Valley Community Theatre | Facebook Page
The Hunchback of Notre Dame Facebook Event
0 Comments