Jesse O. Walls | Crowder Sentry
Andrew Shafer, general studies major, performs “Luck be a Lady” from Guys and Dolls during an open rehearsal on March 20 in the Elsie Plaster auditorium.
Contributor
Musical hits are receiving the Crowder treatment as the Crowder Chamber Choir presents An Evening of Musical Scenes with performances at 7 p.m. nightly on March 21 and 22, and a 2:30 p.m. matinee on Saturday. Directed by Dr. Kierstin Bible, choral music instructor, the show is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
The show opens with “The Ballad of Sweeney Todd” from Stephen Sondheim’s musical, Sweeney Todd. The black box theatre set-up adds to the effect of this song, immediately drawing in the viewer, making one feel as if they are experiencing the scenes rather than just viewing them. The set-up allows for close proximity to the action as well, making for an intimate evening of music and entertainment.
Other performances include songs from Into the Woods, Fiddler on the Roof and Miss Saigon and range from heartfelt and touching to over-the-top and hilarious.
Jesse O. Walls | Crowder Sentry
Sarah Webb, a Northwest Arkansas music professional, gets into the character of Millie from Thoroughly Modern Millie during a performance of “Gimme, Gimme” Thursday night at the open rehearsal of An Evening of Scenes in the Elsie Plaster auditorium.
Andrew Shafer, general studies major, stole the show with his tap-dance number in “I Can Do That” from A Chorus Line, and his humorous duet “Agony” from Into the Woods with Brandon Hall, theatre major, makes the show a must see.
Sarah Webb, a Northwest Arkansas music professional, lent her voice to the Crowder production, adding to the appeal of the show. Her touching execution of “Christmas Lullaby” from Jason Robert Brown’s Songs for a New World is sure to become a favorite and her sultry and exuberant performance of “Gimme, Gimme” from Thoroughly Modern Millie exceeded expectations.
And while some scenes may be more memorable than others, there are really no low points. The singing and choreography are brilliant and each song dazzles with its own appeal.
Because the show is black box theatre, seating is limited, so reservations are required. Admission is free for students and the community, but people must be at least 13 years of age or older to attend. To reserve tickets call 417-455-5470.
