PAMELA PERKINS
As always, the Youth Bridge Global/RMI Ministry of Education/Marshall Islands High School musical production is an amazing experience. Students of elementary through college age have been working diligently since early 2019 to entertain us at the level we have come to expect: success again! Music Man is wonderful! The opening scene with the traveling salesmen on a train establishes that we are in for a glorious, hilarious journey!
Let’s start with the Ensemble. The choreography is enchanting. Every participant demonstrates his/her passion for the role; although most of the dancing is in groups, each dancer stands out in his/her own way. When “Professor” Hill and his shady accomplice share a dance, one sees how delighted they are with themselves and their evil ways while Harold and Marian’s dancing is more personal and romantic of course.
There are too many delightful performances to name each individual, but Jobod Silk and Duke Gaston are masterful throughout the many manifestations of Harold Hills’ personal development. Ikue Alik and Carnie Reimers are terrific actresses who interpret their roles as prim librarian Marian Paroo as a caring, lovely young woman with elements of determination and grace. Both Mayors Shinn, Jiro Sam and Allira Samson, own the role – differently but equally delightfully. Yolanie Jurelang and Aliciya Ackley alternate as Mrs. Paroo and Mrs. Shinn, and each is fabulous.
Having been announced in advance via the Journal how delightful the Barbershop Quartet would be, all expectations were met and exceeded. The four young men need to continue with this newfound talent and entertain us whenever there is an opportunity. “Lida Rose” is particularly memorable, and their playfulness throughout the evening is an important part of their contribution to the whole event.
It goes without saying that the music in Music Man was delightful.
Dr. Andrew Garrod, you have done it again with the help of Bonny Taggart, Tyler Malbreaux, Summer Cody, Nina Roy, Tommy Kabua, Alson Kelen, and the entire team. Everyone in the production team worked miracles as they helped the multi-talented actors of all ages achieve the high level (close to perfection) that they have all reached. The sets provided the perfect background for all of the shenanigans, starting off with the jiggly train ride and continuing to support the action throughout the various scenes.
Read more about this in the March 22, 2019 edition of the Marshall Islands Journal.