Cappies Review: 'The Music Man' At Bishop Ireton High School

The following is a student review of "The Music Man" at Bishop Ireton High School on March 25. Additional performances are planned March 31 and April 1 at 7 p.m.

By Natalie Lanter of South County High School

"If You Don't Mind My Saying So," Bishops Ireton's production of "The Music Man" brought the little town of River City, Iowa, to life with glitz and glamour. Written by Meredith Willson, "The Music Man" details the story of Professor Harold Hill as he tries to make a quick buck by manipulating the people of River City into paying for a slew of band instruments. His ploy is quickly derailed as he meets the local librarian and rethinks his priorities.

The leading lady, played by Elina Viana, brought wit and charm to the elegant Marian Paroo with her vocal maturity and a transatlantic accent. Well-read and educated, Marian struggled to find like-minded people, as she's frustrated with the River City citizens who ridiculed her for her smarts. Her angst and anger were highlighted in the powerful belts at the end of "Piano Lesson" and "My White Knight." She longed for a partner who loved her for who she was in the song "Goodnight, My Someone," cradling the melody with vibrato and masterful breath control. As she began to fall in love with Professor Hill, her singing became lighter and looser, as displayed in the gentle showcase of "Till There Was You." Throughout every line and lyric, her hand gestures and facial expressions matched the tone of what she was saying.

Alongside Viana, was Aidan Furey as the smooth-talking music man Harold Hill. From the moment he entered the stage clutching his briefcase and sporting an accent reminiscent of Jimmy Stewart, Furey commanded both the stage and audience with his slick delivery and crystal-clear pronunciation of every song, specifically the rapid-paced, "Ya Got Trouble." As the musical progressed, Harold Hill lost sight of his con and began to fall for Marian Paroo. His passion for Marian radiated in every duet, and their relationship came to a beautiful climax during "Till There Was You."

Lauren Allen shone as Mrs. Paroo, projecting a rich Irish accent that flourished even while singing songs such as "Gary, Indiana." Her comedic timing and use of enunciation excelled in "If You Don't Mind My Saying So." Playing her son, James Campione held his own as one of the youngest actors in the show. Feigning a lisp and a limp, Campione still belted out lyrics with perfect diction and blended flawlessly with his older costars.

Led by Brendan Carreon, Eve Wisneski, Joseph Murray, and Charlotte Rayder, the set team transformed the auditorium into a whimsical town from the 1910s. The main set piece included triangular pillars that rotated to create a school hall boasting sports records to an old-timey Main Street with individualized shops and houses and then to a cozy library. The run crew effortlessly handled the massive pieces and weaved in and out of the dance numbers unnoticed, carrying the cast to the next scene with seamless transitions.

Suits for the businessmen, lavish gowns for the town gossips, and a color palette different to fit each character, the costume department fashioned nothing short of a visual spectacle. With over 140 articles of clothing, both the main cast and ensemble had outfits tailored to their own personalities and story arcs. Marian started the play in a hand-sewn tight teal dress, but changed to a flowing white frock as she realized her feelings for the Professor. The ensemble wore colors that matched their dance partners, and the kids were decked out in full band uniforms by the closing song.

Bishop Ireton's cast and crew created a "Sincere" and immersive experience, transporting the audience into the quirky and captivating world of "The Music Man" with grace and expertise.