Alec Lautanen
Theme Editor
Featuring classic Elvis music, “All Shook Up” is a testament to the skill of Mira Costa’s drama department. Although most focus is drawn toward the two leads, the entire cast comes together to create an impressive production that satisfies any audience member.
“All Shook Up” is carried by strong vocals and a powerful ensemble. Each commanding performance and song leaves the audience cheering, and oftentimes wondering who will don blue suede shoes next.
Loosely based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, “All Shook Up” is a jukebox musical that features songs by Elvis Presley. It follows the story of a rowdy ’50s roustabout named Chad, played by sophomore Buster Baer, and his interactions with a small, orthodox town.
Like “Twelfth Night,” a series of unrequited loves develop after the arrival of Chad. Senior Maria Hanley portrays the local “female mechanic,” and can’t seem to resist this newcomer to the town. At the same time, Natalie’s long-time friend Dennis (sophomore Maurice Welch) also has a crush on her, but she ignores him for Chad. Chad’s lack of interest leads to her disguising herself as a man named Ed in an effort to spend more time with him.
Meanwhile, Chad develops an affection for Miss Sandra, the town museum’s curator, who is played by senior Kellianne Safarik. The madness of this plot is even further “shook up” when Sandra falls for Natalie’s fake “Ed” personality.
Hanley does a wonderful job in the dual role of Natalie and Ed, and her combination of two personalities was a major reason the show was such a hit.
Individual roles are strong points of “All Shook Up.” Baer’s wild behavior and curt remarks as Chad produces the atypical ’50s hooligan with spirit and energy, and he carried the show well.
Welch brought his character to life despite having no prior experience in Costa productions. His soulful vocals and awkward, nerdy charm were a highlight of the show.
Choreographer Alan Collins’ work was an important part of the production, but wasn’t overdone. Even something as simple as Chad’s reoccurring “jiggly wiggly” hip thrust added volumes to scenes without distraction, and major numbers “Can’t Help Falling in Love” were thankfully not noticeably extravagant.
One aspect of the show that contrasted with the cleverness of the storytelling was the conclusion. The production ends with everyone’s loves fulfilled and a celebration with multiple marriages. The predictability and cliché of the finale was one of the few interruptions in the otherwise engaging plot.
Another element of the show that was disappointing was the lack of main roles to showcase the talent in Costa’s drama department. Although leads were strong, there were many ensemble members that seem under utilized without more prominent speaking and singing parts. This wasn’t necessarily true with the role of Sheriff Earl, played by senior Jason Boxer, whose comical expressions and exaggerated gestures were the source of much humor, albeit with no dialogue until the end.
Senior Oriana Inferrera was paired with Boxer as Mayor Matilda Hyde, a strict, reactionary character who stood out with comedic timing and a commanding stage presence.
Utilizing an orchestra for a show comprised entirely Elvis songs is not an easy task, but pit members and conductor Mark McCormick came through to narrate the story with lively and supportive music, adding a unique deviation from the expected guitar and drum soundtrack.
While certainly a departure from earlier shows like “The Dining Room” and “The Wiz”, “All Shook Up” remains one of the top performances Mira Costa drama has put on.
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