By BOBBIE GREEN
The Progress
The stage at the Mesquite Community Theatre rocked with dancing students on Friday night, June 21, the opening night the Children’s Summer Theatre production of “Mean Girls.”
Forty students, mostly high school-age, danced and sang their way into the hearts of a very appreciative audience. It was a fun filled evening with young talent on display.
The story of “Mean Girls” by Jeff Richmond, fosters meaningful thoughts on friendship, loyalty and betrayal; all while encouraging individuality.
Joy Craig and Randi Peterson were the amazing choreographers. Working only ten days with these kids and producing wonderful in-synch dance routines with this many kids was astonishing; as was the willingness of the kids to learn and do.
There was no one person who “stole the show.” Rather there were many young actors who each owned their parts.
Ryan Conley as Damian was just mind-blowing! He led the audience through the whole show!
McKenna Whipple as the stuck-up Regina and leader of the Plastics was perfect in her part. She killed it with her number “World Burn.”
Morgan Oliver as Kevin G, had only a small part, but at 11 years old, he stood out among the bigger kids.
Olivia Bunker as Janis was so natural with her lines, very professional.
Leah Wilson portrayed Cady, the shy and less sophisticated new girl. She was very believable and bold. Her dance routine included a lift.
Gretchen, played by Anya Lindberg charmed the audience with her audacious lines and song.
The boyfriend Aaron played by Konner Peterson surprised the audience with his singing.
The audience loved the show and the cheering was loud.
Director Wende Killinger did a remarkable job in such a short time with such a large cast.
The whole crew from costumes to set design deserve kudo’s. All of them together produced the great show we all enjoyed. This was a Rock-Star Production.
