By Makena Behnke

In Palm Valley’s production of The Drowsy Chaperone, we see quick changes, strong voices, and monkeys. The main character, Janet, played by both Marianne Capetz and Kaiya Treash, is portrayed as a bodacious movie star who retires into marriage. Charles Schnell plays Janet’s fiance, Robert. Robert is totally lovestruck by his gorgeous girl. Every musical number (and there are a lot) causes very powerful and strong emotions, especially the “Aldolpho” number. Jake Sonderman plays “lady killer” Aldolpho who accidentally seduces Jackson Dean, the Chaperone. The storyline goes many different ways and adds to the comedy (look out for the irony coming from Leo Milmet). Taking place in the 1920s, I’m confident in saying the hair and makeup of the play are definitely important aspects of the show. Back then, thin and dark brows, pouty heart lips, and perfectly pinned and slicked back hair was the most popular look. Every character is perfectly put together; outfits are colorful; and attitudes are sickly sweet. Our dear Janet, while in conflict with herself, sings a lovely song about her love for a monkey. Everyone in the cast executes the music perfectly. There is a range of different characters–from the ditsy Kitty, played by Caroline Scheil, to dramatic Marianne and Kaiya’s Janet. I highly recommend The Drowsy Chaperone to anyone who enjoys a good laugh and/or chills when grand musical numbers occur.

 

Editor: Holden Hartle