Staff Writer
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| Conrad Birdie stuns his onstage fans with his revolutionary dancing and striking good looks. |
The Peak Players of Apex High are performing the classic musical, Bye Bye Birdie. Having a carefully selected cast with such vocal and acting talent makes the play entertaining. The pit orchestra does not miss a beat. Laughter and applause fills the auditorium as the audience responds to the humor and incredible musical numbers.
Bye Bye Birdie follows the story of Albert Peterson (David Flowers), the owner of the songwriting company Almaelou, and Rose Alvarez (Allison Collins), his girlfriend and secretary. When Conrad Birdie (Greg Calarco), an Elvis or Conway Twitty-like figure, is drafted into the Army, Rose gives Albert the idea to write a song for Conrad and have Conrad give a farewell kiss to one of his millions of fans. The lucky girl is Kim MacAfee (Ainsley Sieger), a teenager from Sweet Apple, Ohio. However, she just got “pinned” by her steady boyfriend, Hugo F. Peabody (Philip Kayser), and Hugo may not want Kim to kiss Conrad. Everything starts to go wrong when Albert’s mother, Mae Peterson (Catherine Shocket), comes into the picture and attempts to ruin Albert and Rose’s relationship.
Allison Collins, who plays Rose Alvarez, brings true emotion to the stage by demonstrating the disappointments and pure joys of her relationship with Albert Peterson. Her voice is what makes her memorable, not missing a single note and making the audience believe that she truly wants to be the English teacher’s wife. David Flowers, who plays Albert Peterson, was the perfect momma’s boy. His singing voice is easy to listen to and he didn’t miss a step in the dance numbers. Allison’s and David’s chemistry allows their relationship to come to life.
Catherine Shocket, who plays Albert’s mother, is hilarious. Her New York accent makes her character presence strong and humorous. The costuming for her is incredibly accurate when compared to the 1960 Broadway production, from the mink coat to the clunky shoes.
Ainsley Sieger’s performance as Kim MacAfee is the plays biggest surprise. Although a freshman, she has a strong singing voice that captures the audience’s attention. Her acting is flawless and depicts the right amount of innocence to the character. Philip Kayser plays Hugo F. Peabody, the sweet, quirky, and protective boyfriend. From his reaction to the kiss between Conrad and Kim to the moment Kim runs into his arms, he will always be her steady.
Greg Claraco, who plays Conrad Birdie, is just what the doctor ordered to render a flashy rock star character. The sideburns, head-to-toe golden jumpsuit and singing voice brings a vibrant presence onstage. His hip-shaking choreography is what gets the audience laughing and the girls screaming.
The entire ensemble brought so much energy to the stage making every minute of the play believable. From the bright and colorful dresses to the letterman jackets, the costuming captured the essence of the 1950s. This performance of Bye Bye Birdie is one that you don’t want to miss. Future performances are March 7, 8, and 9. Tickets are available at apexdrama.com or at the door.
