“Bring It On: The Musical!” has strong cast members, superb numbers and memorable performances that will leave you cheering in your seats! (Photo property of Universal Stage Productions)
By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
I remember watching bits and pieces of Bring It On as a child.
The 2000 teen comedy centered around Torrance Shipman (Kristen Dunst) and the Toros’ cheerleading team as they prepare to capture a sixth national squad. However, things change when the group’s latest member informs them that their routines were the exact duplicates of a rival squad.
Last night, I had the chance of seeing a production from the current cast of the touring production of Bring It On: The Musical at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts.
It was an all-around, feel-good production!
Audiences would love this cast. It is an impeccable group of actors that not only represent the acting world but also have backgrounds with both cheerleading and gymnastics. There were several standouts (and future stars) within this cast. Nadia Vynnytsky (Campbell) was a strong lead as she power-punched her way into audiences’ hearts with her strong vocals. Zuri Washington (Danielle) commanded the stage in almost every scene that she was in and Maisie Salinger delivered a perfect comedic performance as Bridget.
The second attribute that made this show a success was the libretto, music and lyrics. Jeff Whitty showed that he mastered the Bring It On universe as he merged several plotlines from the original film, Bring It On: All or Nothing and Bring It On: In It to Win It. Lin-Manuel Miranda and his team of Tim Kit and Amanda Green delivered several goose bump inflicting songs that ranged from “One Perfect Moment,” “We’re Not Done” and “Cross the Line.”
Finally, there’s the choreography! Andy Blankenbuehler did an astonishing job blending high intense cheerleading routines with rough Hip-hop numbers. The numbers that audiences should keep an eye on for is “Do Your Own Thing,” “Friday Night Jackson” and the titular song.
Final thoughts & grade: Bring It On! The Musical is an amazing joyride from start to finish that will teach audiences the power of friendship, determination and the ability to be you. A
To learn more about the musical, click here: http://www.bringitonmusical.com/
You can also buy tickets for the Kansas City shows, by visiting Theater League of Kansas City’s website.
