Go-Go's Musical Set To Take Center Stage At Northbrook Theatre

NORTHBROOK, IL — The music of The Go-Go's will drive a colorful tale of family feuds, secret crushes and mistaken identities when Northbrook Theater Youth Company presents "Head Over Heels: The Musical (High School Edition)" next month.

The performance is scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at Northbrook Theatre inside the Northbrook Community Center, 3323 Walters Ave.

The musical follows a royal family on a quest to prevent its kingdom from disappearing. Its themes center on authenticity and accepting one’s true identity.

Actors Share Multiple Roles

The production features an all-teen and preteen cast, with several performers playing more than one character.

"This year's teen production is extra special, because it requires actors to both play and share multiple roles," Performing Arts Supervisor Melody DeRogatis said in a statement.

"Our ensemble-driven vision of this production allows a lot of creativity from our actors, while also championing true teamwork across the rehearsal process."

Cast member Luciana "Lucy" Martinez, 12, plays three roles and said the show’s music gives the production an upbeat feel.

"I would describe it as very upbeat and very exciting," Martinez said. "The music is very energetic."

Multiple parts also mean quick costume changes and more complicated work behind the scenes.

"It feels like being in a different world," Martinez said. "The costumes are not something I would normally wear, and if I do makeup for a character, it's not something I would usually put on. It feels like I am becoming the character. It just feels really awesome."

Elizabethan Language, Modern Music

Mikayla Hong, 12, also plays three roles and said performing dialogue written in Elizabethan English has added another challenge.

"It makes it a little harder to understand, but it also makes it fun for the actors," Hong said. "You get to say 'thy' and 'thou.'"

The smaller cast gives performers more individual stage time than they might receive in a typical Northbrook Community Theatre production, Hong said.

"It's also harder choreography," she said. "It's a level up."

Martinez said working with performers close to her age has helped cast members build new friendships.

"I can talk to people my age, and it just feels a lot easier," she said. "I met new people and made new friendships."

Tickets and additional information are available through the Northbrook Park District's website or by calling 847-291-2995.