One of my favorite memories as a young, single woman were those last minute, impromptu visits to the theater (alone, at that). I’ve always been drawn to the arts, particularly musical theater, and at that time, dreamed of one day seeing a show on Broadway or in London. I’ve since seen numerous shows both on Broadway and in London, and while both are renowned for the award-winning national tours that pass through, LA has it’s own vibrant performing arts community which is constantly growing and thriving.
Last week, I had an opportunity to preview Bring It On: The Musical at the Ahmanson Theater in Los Angeles. As someone who thoroughly enjoyed the original film, I was excited to see it brought to life on stage. Combining athletic choreography and gymnastics, the musical follows the story of Campbell (Taylor Louderman), head cheerleader at the affluent and minority-less Truman High, who is coincidentally redistricted to it’s rival and more culturally diverse neighbor Jackson High. Somewhat predictable is the fact that Jackson High does not have a cheerleading squad and is run by Danielle (Adrienne Warren), who leads the school’s dance crew.
For the first time, Campbell isn’t the popular girl, and struggles through the teenage angst of “fitting in,” while simultaneously hoping to persuade Danielle and her crew to enter the National Cheerleading Championship. Accompanied by Bridget (Ryann Redmond), Truman High’s unpopular and somewhat awkward mascot who has also been redistricted, Campbell learns that friendship, individuality and loyalty are much more important than popularity and status. Bridget truly is the heart of this musical, with her comedic perspective and wise-beyond-her-years insight.
When a film is adapted for the stage, it becomes important to decide if sticking to the original story is vital to audience reception. In the case of Bring It On: The Musical, I think the introduction of new characters and plot works well, keeping audiences engaged while taking the predictability out of the story.
While the story is heartwarming and infused with laugh-out-loud comedy, what audiences will likely be talking about long after the musical is over are the incredible dance and cheer numbers performed. Dancing and singing alone require talent and stamina…I can’t imagine adding athleticism to the mix. But the performers do so with precision and ease, making their routines look effortless.
Bring It On: The Musical runs through December 10th, 2011 at the Ahmanson Theatre and will continue it’s national tour throughout 2012 in numerous cities including San Francisco, Dallas, Denver, Chicago, and Toronto.
You can find a limited number of discount tickets for LA performances on Goldstar.
No compensation was received for this post. Media tickets provided.
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