Transport yourself back to the year 1955, where a charismatic young guitarist arrives in a quaint town, sparking transformative encounters with everyone he crosses paths with. This forms the captivating backdrop of the live rendition of the Broadway sensation “All Shook Up,” set to enthrall audiences at Bristow Middle School in West Hartford from March 21-23.
Drawing inspiration from Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night,” this electrifying musical spectacle, filled with iconic tunes like “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Hound Dog,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and “Don’t Be Cruel,” promises a fusion of classic melodies and a rock ‘n roll vibe. Tailored for middle-school performers and viewers, this 90-minute Broadway adaptation offers a plethora of roles for both young girls and boys.
Heading the production is Sloane Williams, an eighth-grade language arts teacher, as the director, with Jennifer Omartian, a social studies teacher, serving as the producer, and Mary McSweeney, the orchestra teacher/director, overseeing the musical components. Expect live music to elevate the performances to new heights.
Williams’ choice of this particular show stems from its rarity in the theatrical realm. Interestingly, “All Shook Up” had its origins in Connecticut, workshopped at Goodspeed Musicals in East Haddam in 2004 before making its Broadway debut on March 24, 2005. The production, which ran for 213 performances and 33 previews, concluded its national tour in 2007.
Explaining her selection, Williams expressed, “I wanted to do something a little bit different, and with the timeless appeal of Elvis’s music, I felt it would resonate with everyone, making it a joyous, sing-along experience for the audience.”
The students involved in the cast, well-versed in Presley’s music despite his passing in 1977, are brimming with enthusiasm. Jeremy Sabino, an eighth-grader portraying Dean, the mayor’s son entangled in a forbidden romance, assures that the audience will relish the music, humor, and visually striking sets, promising a delightful experience for all.
For eighth-grader Helena De Andrade, stepping into the role of a townslady marks a thrilling debut with The Bristow Players. Transitioning from a soccer player to a theater enthusiast, she revels in the opportunity to sing, dance, and contribute to the creation of this spectacular show.
Amidst a backdrop of misunderstandings and romance, “All Shook Up” weaves a tale of staying true to oneself and the transcendent power of love.
Featuring a cast of around 50 students, alongside additional participants managing backstage responsibilities, the production boasts active involvement from a significant portion of the student body.
Show Details
- Dates: Thursday, March 21, 7 p.m.; Friday, March 22, 7 p.m.; and Saturday, March 23, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
- Ticket Purchase:
- Cost: $15 for reserved seating
- Venue: Bristow Middle School Auditorium, 34 Highland St., West Hartford
Cast List
- Chad – Konstantinos P.
- Natlie Heller/Ed – Ellie J.
- Dennis – Micah P.
- Dean Hyde – Jeremy S.
- Lorraine – Edie K.
- Sylvia (Lorraine’s Mom) – Imogen J.
- Miss Sandra – Finley V.
- Mayor Matilda Hyde – Gabby W.
- Sheriff Earl – Lyric B.
- Warden – Max R.
- Alex – Ben C.
- Bus Driver – Ben M.
And many more talented performers in various roles.