The Cappies organization, in which local students attend and review other local students’ theatre productions, recently published reviews for CCDS’s Thoroughly Modern Millie, performed two weekends ago. The following are a few excerpts. Nominations for Cappies awards are released in April.
- In the lead role of Millie, Ali Breneman created and held a realistic, three-dimensional character throughout the show. Using facial nuances, body language, and different vocal colors, Breneman convincingly expressed the whole gamut of emotions Millie experienced, ranging from anger at her beau to the thrill of being in New York.
- Cincinnati Country Day’s production grabbed the audience’s attention by creatively showcasing Millie’s adventures and misadventures with its numerous dance scenes—especially tap dancing—that brought alive the energy of the 1920’s.
- The costuming for the show flawlessly reflected the revolution of the 1920s. The apparel of the flappers was bright, risqué, and glamorous, while the traditional stenogs were dressed in dark-colored conservative attire. This added to the credibility of the performance, and lit up the stage with sparkle and flair.
- Comedic timing was the cornerstone of this performance. Line delivery from characters such as Mrs. Meers (Micaela Mullee), Ching Ho (Todd Legette Jr.), and Bun Foo (Mick Abrahamson) had the audience shaking in their seats as the plotline unfolded.
- Perhaps the most noteworthy part of Cincinnati Country Day School’s production of “Thoroughly Modern Millie” was the intricate tap choreography and the well developed characters. The performers brought to life the men and women of the 1920’s in a real and respectable way.
Photo courtesy of Mick Abrahamson, ’11.