Review: BRING IT ON at the University of Utah Brings a Youthful Energy

The University of Utah's production of BRING IT ON, which is the first in Utah since the national tour arrived more than two years ago, captivates with a youthful energy.

BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL (book by Jeff Whitty, music by Tom Kitt and Lin-Manuel Miranda, lyrics by Amanda Green and Lin-Manuel Miranda) is inspired by the BRING IT ON movie series about competitive cheerleading. Campbell is at the top of her game as the captain of her cheer squad, and her life-long goal of winning nationals is in her sights. But when she has to transfer to a different high school due to redistricting, she must convince the new school's dance crew to cheer, or her dreams will be shattered. Along the way she learns that some things, like honesty, friendship, and selflessness, are more important than winning. It isn't the weightiest of material, but it's true to the high school setting, and its heart is in the right place. The story and characters are compelling, the jokes are very funny, and the score is strong.

Madi Cooper as Campbell has a magnetic stage presence and crystal clear vocals that soar. She meets the demands of the character and, even more importantly, makes the audience care about her.

Sky Kawai is similarly well matched to his part and gives a great acting and singing performance as Randall.

Other highlights of the enthusiastic cast include Arjana Sanfilippo as Bridget, E. Javier Flores as Twig, Carleton Bluford as Cameron, Talia Hess as Danielle, Micki Martinez as Nautica, and Wilson Hicken as La Cienega.

The cast as a whole, while often inconsistent, is successful at adapting to the various contemporary styles required by the piece. Many of the men have to play multiple roles across the two schools to make up for a shortage of male ensemble members, and they do so seamlessly.

The choreography is well executed, if lacking in authentic hip-hop movement. The cheerleading moves also perform their function well, though they aren't as exciting as nationally ranked squads' should be.

The orchestra, conducted by Alex Marshall, is phenomenal. Despite the fact that it is always visible on a platform at the back of the stage, the music is so well played it is easy to forget it is not prerecorded.

The scenic design by Keven Myhre is comprised of a series of gray lockers that are moved around to create new spaces and setups. It is simple, but very effective.

The real star of the show is the fabulous lighting design by Cole Adams. With such an unassuming set, the lighting is really able to take center stage with colors and arrangements that thrill. "Cross the Line" is especially exhilarating.

Pioneer Theatre Company regulars Brenda Van der Wiel and Amanda French do great work as usual on costume and hair/makeup design, respectively.

If you are a fan of contemporary musicals such as IN THE HEIGHTS and LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL, this show really is a must-see, and the University of Utah's fledgling musical theatre department deserves your support.

BRING IT ON plays through September 25, 2016. For tickets, call the box office at 801-581-7100 or visit tickets.utah.edu.

Photo Credit: Madi Cooper (Campbell) and cast

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