Cappies Review: High School Musical at Ocoee High School

Alex Ruiz | Timber Creek High School

Samuel Beckett wrote that even when failure is an eventuality, there is much to say about the courage of taking the most difficult path. Ocoee High School knows about courage, and their production of acclaimed Disney phenomenon, "High School Musical" shows it. A show so ingrained in modern teens and tweens with exact interpretations of every aspect, they bravely put their own spin to it, and made it their own.

Conceived by Peter Barsocchini, "High School Musical" premiered January 20th, 2006, and became the most successful Disney Channel Original Movie ever. It was followed with a #1 soundtrack on Billboard, a popular sequel (with two more in the works), and a stage adaptation with 60 tours to date.

Occasionally called a modern-day "Romeo & Juliet," "High School Musical" follows two juniors at East High in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Troy and Gabriella. After meeting at a karaoke contest during vacation, they reunite when Gabriella transfers into town. Troy is the basketball team's captain (his father, the coach) and Gabriella is a shy, bookish student. The idea of auditioning for the school musical is unintentionally brought to their attention by Drama Club President Sharpay. When they recieve callback auditions, it divides the school and brings their devotion to their cliques into question.

The opening number ("Start Of Something New"), a poignant duet between Troy and Gabriella (Travis Cook and Rachael Wood), had strong vocals reminiscent of bubble-gum pop. Their chemistry throughout the show brought into full realization the awkwardness of teenage love. Their vocals, particularly Gabriella's on her solo "When There Was Me And You," were engaging.

Large group numbers such as Boys-II-Men-ish "Get'cha Head In The Game," dance-laden "Status Quo," and cheerleader-driven "We're All In This Together," despite some awkward singing and dance issues, left a strong impression.

Supporting characters, like Ryan (Jabari Suluki) and Sharpay, proved to be the genuine article. Their flavorful duets "What I've Been Looking For" and "Bop To The Top" were welcome reprieves.

The show's technical aspects were above-expectation for a high school production. With an extended stage complete with stairs, mood-lighting, and great-looking set pieces to make up hallway and classroom scenes, each part fit as it should have.

Ocoee High School's production of "High School Musical" shows the value of taking risks, and where it can lead to. Their performance set a standard that will be difficult to ever forget.

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Cappies Review: High School Musical at Ocoee High School

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