by Caitlin Howarth, Washington-Lee High School
Reviewed on August 3, 2003
These kids want more. They want what lies beyond normal teenage life, past the schoolyard and in the spotlight. They want to share themselves with the world as performers, actors and actresses of the finest quality.
Those words could be said of both the cast and the fictional characters of “Go-Go Beach,” presented by the Cappies National Theater. Three weeks of non-stop rehearsals and two other productions behind them, the Cappies all-star cast gave its all in the 60s-style musical of “Go-Go Beach” in a display of true professionalism. That veteran attitude maintained the high quality of performance despite some severe technical mishaps, demonstrating just how polished these young actors have become since they began.
“Go-Go Beach” has all the makings for teeny-bopper pop appeal, circa 1966. A beach full of California kids compete in dance and surfing contests for coveted spots in the latest movie by pop sensation Mindy Chinchilla. Yet it stops short of being saccharine, its message shifting from shallow aspirations to a more tribal love that many will recognize as vintage San Francisco. These kids realize that they have more to give than their youth and beauty—and again, cast and characters seemed to share a voice.
Frankly, everyone onstage had more to give and it has been evident since their first performance that this national ensemble is uniquely rich in talent. Yet some have been held back in the past few weeks, saving themselves for this production. Brooke Rucidlo (Cincinnati, OH) was one. Her range of vocal ability gave the audience a pleasant shock with its sweet highs and sultry lows. Julia Mancini (Washington, D.C.) delivered yet another strong vocal performance; her talent has been hinted at in past performances but never fully realized until showcased in two stunning solo pieces. Jared Timmons (Springfield, VA) charmed his audience with smooth moves and smoother songs, as did the incredibly quirky, incredibly funny Jared Hill (Raymore, MO). For comparison, think of Zach and Screech from “Saved by the Bell.”
Outstanding in supporting roles were Laura Mays (Manassas, VA) and Troy Davidson (Coral Springs, FL) as Honey and Fingers. They demonstrated along with all named above that excellence in singing is just one part of an actor’s skills. Comedic timing, physical expressiveness and commitment to character stood at their finest here, and were well-displayed against the rest of the ensemble’s all-out dancing and vocal efforts. Professional sets and costumes lent an appropriate polish to the stage appearance, as did suave orchestral accompaniment.
This brilliant cast and crew has had many shining moments over the past three weeks. And with “Go-Go Beach” they’ve sent a call out to anyone with dreams like theirs: “You’ve got to start today—don’t look the other way.” The Cappies National Theater has shown just how much its members have to give. Every person poured their all out every day—and even without a spotlight, no one could help shining.
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