Event Article

Director Gary Krinke and the entire Fullerton College Theatre Arts Dept. have to be commedede for their bold choice in musicals once again

Side Show, though dotted with comedic moments delves deep into the human psyche by encouraging audience members to examine the freak show of the world we live in.

That being said, a show of this magnitude may have been a little too ambitious as evidenced by the scattered elements of the show. While individual actors delivered outstanding performances, the separate elements never really came together to form: a cohesive production.

A prime example would be the two leads, Daisy and Violet Hilton as played by Brenda Salas and Stephanie Wall. While Salas' bright-eyed portrayal of Daisy emphasized the naivete of the character and Wall delivered her songs with almost effortless singing, the two, though "conjoined", didn't have enough chemistry to be believable as sisters. Though they danced well together, it seemed like Wall was pulling Salas instead of moving with her through out the production.

Also, the chemistry between Terry, the Hilton sisters' manager played by Danny Blaylock, and Daisy was left wanting. Blaylock sang "Private Conversation in Act·II with a beautiful baritone that allowed the audience to relax into the song. This lasted until he started dancing with an imaginary Daisy later in the number. The two seemed out of step, which resulted in a stilted and awkward "love" scene.

Perhaps the. highlight of the show was Malachi Haynes, who played the love-struck Jake. ''The Devil You Know" in Act I featured this talented actor and singer along with the ensemble. He infused the number with a pop-like fuidity in his voice that left you wanting to hear more.

Of note, too, was Stephen Lords' seedy carnival boss. The way he staggered around the stage and breathed life into the despicable character was impressive. What was more impressive was his singing voice, a trong tenor, which was a surprising contrast to the vile character he portrayed.

Technically the complex show was almost flawless except for several sound problems that made it difficult to understand what the characters were singing.

'. Although the show never really came together, it did come close several times, particularly during the opening number, "Come Look at the Freaks,'' during "The Devil You Know," and during "We Share Everything." Perhaps the near success of these numbers can be attributed to the strength of the chorus and the presence of strong visual elements created by the choreography; lighting and sets.

In "We Share Everything," Salas and Wall danced in Egyptian costumes backed by male dancers prancing around the stage,Though these dancers arid the bobbing heads of the statues ·of Egyptian pharaohs in the background elicited a number of giggles from the audience, they came together to form a visually stunning production number.

Side Show may not be completely show stopping, but talented cast members and solid production numbers make this musical worth seeing.