Review: TARZAN at Centennial High School

Students from Mountain View, Eagle and Centennial High Schools have joined together to bring us TARZAN. Directed by Centennial Drama Teacher, Machaela Burt, this Tarzan rendition is the stage musical based on the Disney film.

The story is classic Tarzan, written by David Henry Hwang with music and lyrics written by the great Phil Collins. An orphaned boy raised by a family of gorillas, grows up knowing that he doesn't really fit in. The love of his mother, friendship with Terk, and Kerchak's constant warnings fill the first half. He meets Jane almost as the curtain is closing on act one. The second half introduces us to the villainous Clayton and Professor Porter and has more conflict, better songs, and is much more interesting than act one.

This production was filled with a high energy cast that was usually over-powered by the canned music. Costuming was simple, and creative. Choreography included the occasional acrobatic silk and tumblers, which really added to the numbers.

There are always actors who stand out to me, and this show is no exception. Tarzan (Kyler Chapman who is listed as the Understudy) and Jane (Alli Rackham) were strong ring leaders for the show. They were brilliant together especially in the small momentS. Chapman delivers the Collins pop-style songs, like "Strangers Like Me", with gorgeous ease. The family clown Terk, was played by one of my favorite young actors, Justin Ravago. If you ever see his name on a cast list, be sure to go see that show. You will also be delighted to hear the impressive voice of Nicole Bremmer. Miss Bremmer, in the role of Kala, sings with heart and strength.

TARZAN will be performed February 9-11 at 7pm with Saturday Matinee at 1pm. Tickets are only $8 for general admission with $6 tickets for students and seniors.