“Mean Girls” Means Business…
By Cate Rees-Hessel with Wes Hessel
Paramount Theatre’s production of “Mean Girls” is a high energy pink explosion of female empowerment. This delightful production has an extremely charming set, colorful and pretty with wonderful projections, sensational silhouettes, and very cute props, including bed and living rooms that are inviting and cozy. The costumes are appropriate, attractive, and nicely done. As a devout follower of Christ, I was not offended by references to Jesus or the lyrics to one of my favorite Christmas songs, “Mary Did You Know”. These references fit with the sadly cynical personalities and circumstances being portrayed in the show by very talented actors.
The entire cast is exceptional – the acting stellar strong, vocals and dance numbers executed spot-on. I especially enjoyed the mesmerizing choreography by Kasey Alfonso, particularly a cafeteria sequence utilizing trays, and the sharp, surprising precision with student desks. The musical score is inspired, the lyrics exceptional – not surprising, since the words were penned by Nell Benjamin, the co-scorer of the other pink powerhouse, “Legally Blonde, the Musical”. The illuminating lighting is unique and top notch.
The very pretty Elizabeth Stenholt, in the lead role of Cady, has a beautiful voice and enormous stage presence; her characterization is both endearing and believable. Steven Klenk and Lucy Godinez are hilarious in their roles – both handle the comedy and drama equally well. Austin Nelson Jr. is realistic and very credible as the put-off educator, Diego Vazquez Gomez ideal in the part of the high school student interested in the new girl. Abby C. Smith once again graces the Paramount stage with a masterful performance. The mean girl trio themselves – Angel Alzeidan, Julia Hope Budd, and Dariana Mullen – are beautiful, talented, and fierce, each one a joy to watch.
Paramount favorite Veronica Garza gives another flawless performance with her impeccable comic timing. She can play any role with ease, switching characters with practiced flair. Ms. Garza as a mom and a teacher, both comic and dramatic, is completely legit, notably with her instructor portrayal making a strong sisterhood statement. As a girly-girly feminist this show definitely resonates strongly with me and the defining moment of reckoning is extremely well played.
No review of this musical would be complete without a mention of Trent Stork’s brilliant casting, each actor fitting their parts perfectly. I enjoyed the film in 2004, and the stage version certainly lends itself extremely well to the brilliant direction by Devon Hayakawa. Paramount brings us Broadway quality world class theater; the entire theatrical experience is magnificent. Souvenirs and yummy concessions are available for purchase, including special beverages you won’t find in any school cafeteria…
The message in this show is clear: choose kindness – “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” (Luke 6:31 NIV). Females need to lift each other up, not tear each other down; calling someone stupid does not make you any smarter, referring to another girl as ugly will not make you better looking. Tell someone “You’re like really pretty” today and mean it. The trust exercise of catching those falling in the second act sends a very strong anti-bullying message, nothing “rando” about it. So, put on your best pink outfit – even if it’s not a Wednesday – by October 11th and fetch your tickets to this she-preme production at www.paramountaurora.com.
This review is dedicated in celebration of the lives of Dolly Parton and Gloria Steinem, both incredible ladies who organically demonstrated kindness and empowerment.
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