by Stephen Liao ’15, Lighter Fare Editor
Showcasing in Keeler Theater from February 27th to March 1st, All Shook Up is sure to put a grin on your face and a spell on your heart. The latest Upper School musical production features dozens of Elvis’s hits,
enhanced with a live band. Split into two acts, this dynamic show based loosely on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night packs a punch you won’t soon forget.
While upperclassmen shine bright as the story’s stars, All Shook Up’s enthusiastic ensemble and dance numbers flesh out its impressive presentation. A warning to families: hide your kids, hide your wife, ‘cause Chad’s in town. The slick-haired, leather-donning roustabout played
by senior Ishan Ghildyal poses a sensual threat to the musical’s small-town setting—and to audience members! His female counterpart Natalie, acted by fellow senior Annie Mullee, hilariously poses as a dude, “Ed”, to sustain her heartthrob’s attention. Chad’s contagious guitar playing excites the whole town into an infectious frenzy; each character falls lovesick into a web of unreciprocated affection. While maneuvering through its sticky plot, All Shook Up strikes the perfect balance between sentiment and amusement. Scattered throughout the capricious scenes and ridiculous situations are a few touching moments, but no more than is fitting for a comedy. The plot unravels chaotically, accompanied by diverse tracks to fit the ever-changing mood: from the rousing “C’mon Everybody”, tender “Can’t Help Falling in Love”, to saucy “Devil in Disguise”. Dramatic mid-song freezes and singing interwoven through dialogue keep the tempo fresh. In songs with the full ensemble, you will find it hard to resist the buzzing, vibrant atmosphere created.
Attention to detail distinguishes a great work from a good one. Quite simply, the costumes are fantastic. Chad, with his blue suede shoes and lean, mean leather jeans contrast sharply with the modest, clean attire of the town’s citizens. In “Let Yourself Go”, the elegant Miss Sandra (played by Rachel Epstein ’14 and Hannah
Taylor ’15) serenades her love interest, accompanied by statues come to life. The townspeople are outfitted similarly to one another, but not identically. Transitions are seamless, often accompanied with a groove from the band. Creative set-work, most notably an interesting bike and bus scene, adds to the playful nature of the show. A malt shop for watchers on the Saturday evening showing will coolly introduce the old-school setting.
From sterling vocals to hysterical hijinks, All Shook Up is a hot mess in the best way. Don’t Be Cruel, do yourself a favor and Let Yourself Go; this is a musical you Can’t Help Falling in Love with.
