We all probably know what it feels like to be laughed at, rejected and excluded, but no one knows that feeling better than the animal-like cast of Hammond High School's Honk!
Based on the age-old fairy tale The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen, Honk!, by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe, follows the story of a duckling (Charles Freeman) who is not as aesthetically appealing as his brothers and sisters. He travels across the land, meeting new acquaintances like a hungry cat (Ricky Wise), a domesticated chicken (Sara Koeppel) and a very proud goose (David Kaiser-Jones) with a British accent.
Freeman exhibited unparalleled physicality as the odd kid out, which was complemented by a dynamically powerful voice. Freeman shone is his solo, "Now I've Seen You," in which Ugly sees his first swan. As Ida, Ugly's mother, Allie Rocco projected a stunningly melodious voice and pulled on the heartstrings with her matronly manners.
Koeppel displayed remarkable accuracy of character as Lowbutt, the trained chicken. Her clever delivery and matter-of-fact demeanor proved a winning combination. Wise also did a splendid job as Cat, who follows Ugly around the countryside in hopes of nabbing himself a bite to eat. Wise sneaked around stage with a stunningly catlike integrity, and he used a sly hint of a French accent, even during his strong solo moments.
Musical scores are no easy task, but the Hammond High pit band did a wonderful job. The balance, tone and control of the band were excellent.
In a charming musical revival of a classic fairy tale, Hammond High School flew high with its production of "Honk!"
Eric Stishan, a student at Marriotts Ridge High School, reviewed "Honk!" for the Cappies of Baltimore, a program in which students review high school productions under the direction of their teachers and vote on awards for outstanding performances.