Cappies review of Xanadu at Rock Ridge High School

By Charlotte Lobring, St. Andrew’s Episcopal School

Begin with a young, uninspired artist and then explode into a colorful and harmonious celebration of the artists all on roller skates, of course. Rock Ridge High School’s Xanadu was a highly professional and lively production with a cast and crew that went above and beyond at all times. It was as funny as it was heartfelt, and was a loving nod to the 1980s, legwarmers and all.

Xanadu, a book by Douglas Carter Beane and music and lyrics by Jeff Lynne (of the Electric Light Orchestra) and John Farrar, is inspired by the 1980 film of the same name. It tells the story of an ancient Greek muse, Clio, who wishes to inspire a struggling artist named Sonny. 

Using the name Kira and sporting an Australian accent, Clio and Sonny grow closer together as he works to open a roller disco named Xanadu. This is much to the satisfaction of Clio’s older sisters, Melpomene and Calliope, who wish to get Clio banished to the Netherworld for falling in love with a mortal.

Maddie Kesler, who played the titular character Clio, was a joy to watch at all times. Kesler’s bright and bubbly personality was executed perfectly through grandiose movements and beautiful, crystal-clear vocals. With the roller skates and accent, Kesler added to the magical quality of the character. 

Grayson Scheefers, who played Sonny Malone, was a master with physical comedy and chemistry with the other cast members. The audience roared with laughter watching Sonny struggle with the roller skates and deeply felt Sonny’s affectionate connection with Clio. Scheefers also executed the songs with grace and fluidity.

Who doesn’t love a villain though, right? This show certainly delivered. D’Amora Brunson, who played Melpomene, displayed a powerful, graceful quality that left the audience wanting to see more. 

Ellie Schubert, who played Calliope, had the best jokes and vocal riffs in the show. Whether the two were “making it rain” with dollar bills above the stage or just being silly, they were the highlight of the show. 

Another standout performance was by Matt Miscio, who played business mogul Danny Maguire. Miscio embodied the tough, determined businessman with ease. It was delightful to see Danny’s soft spot for the arts come out gradually throughout the show.

No matter who was on stage, or what song it happened to be, the ensemble was consistently in character, which is advanced for a high school production. The other Muse sisters, played by Mariah Waters, Julia Freeman, Karishma Ruhnke, and Maggie Cantwell stole the spotlight with their alluring dance moves and radiant ribbon twirling. 

Zeus and Hera, played by Sam Cooper and Sneha Khandavalli respectively, were entertaining in both witticism and vocals. Hayley Sutton played two of the most memorable characters in the show. As Young Danny, in a flashback scene, Sutton’s tap-dancing skills were unreal in rhythm and balance. As Hermes, the one-liners were fantastic.

The technical aspect of the production was simply astounding. The Greek-influenced, two-level set designed by Danny Fortuno caught the eye the moment the audience walked in. The lighting, designed by Jack Capobianco, added to the atmosphere of the show in the most stunning way possible. 

The student choreographers, Maggie Cantwell and Elle Hardesty, brought the show to life with mystical and pop-style movements. The costumes, hair, and makeup were flawless, designed by Maddy Springer, and the school’s Theatre Costume & Make-Up Class. Each design fit the characters in just the right way.

Xanadu at Rock Ridge High School was a breathtaking show full of unforgettable performances, marvelous design, and a whole lot of fun.