Bye Bye Birdie
at West Broward High School

Reviewed on March 3, 2016

Nick Lopez
Cypress Bay High School
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

What's the story, morning glory? What's the tale, nightingale? Well, the latest gossip around town is that West Broward High School took flight with their latest production of BYE BYE BIRDIE, entertaining an audience with retro charm and the commitment of some charismatic leads.

BYE BYE BIRDIE opened on Broadway in 1960 with a start studded cast which included Dick Van Dyke and Chita Rivera, where it won three Tony Awards including Best Musical. Set in the late 1950s, the musical follows the story of Conrad Birdie, an Elvis-esque rock-and-roll sensation, who is drafted into the army. Taking advantage of the situation, his management team choose a lucky fan to receive one last kiss from Birdie before he is deployed.

Colin Miller boasted confidence and stage presence as Albert Peterson, Conrad Birdie's songwriter and agent. He possessed a seamless 1950s demeanor, and showed complete command of his role's vocal style. Opposite Miller was the lovely Sarah Gorfinkel as Rosie Alvarez; her vocals were exquisite, her dance solos were irresistibly captivating, but it was her ability to give her character depth despite the presentational style of the show which truly made her a highlight performer.

Jorge Amador gave one of the show's more memorable and hysterical performances as Harry MacAfee, the father of Kim, the fan who wins Conrad Birdie's "last kiss." Some performers lacked Amador's comedic timing, a factor that when paired with a lack of natural interactions between actors led to occasionally awkward pacing. Jacob Dungan was charming and spirited as Hugo Peabody, Kim's boyfriend, and did well to give an endearing character arc to a familiar archetype. Danoeh Renaud stood out amongst the company as the Mayor's wife; despite having a minor part, Renaud showed complete understanding of the musical's campy style and remained completely in character throughout the show. Renaud's enthusiasm wasn't always shared by the rest of the ensemble, which displayed inconsistent energy levels and had difficulty in executing large group harmonies.

Dazzling costumes and a playful, multi-faceted set dressed the stage with a retro vibrancy that complemented the show's colorful characters and music. The stage crew maneuvered these components efficiently, with very quick set changes performed cleanly and consistently. However, microphone and music levels lacked balance, an issue which was complicated by performers that struggled with enunciation.

West Broward High School's latest musical was playful, nostalgic, and commendably entertaining. Multiple performers soared, providing a memorable night for an audience that wasn't quite ready to say BYE BYE BIRDIE by the time that the cast took their bows.

Melissa Kean
Piper High School
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

Audience members had the opportunity to take a trip back to the 1950's while watching West Broward High School's uplifting production of "Bye Bye Birdie".

Bye Bye Birdie opened on Broadway in 1960, instantly becoming a huge hit and one of the most memorable American musicals. With the book by Michael Stewart, lyrics by Lee Adams, and music by Charles Strouse, Bye Bye Birdie won several Tony awards including Best Musical. The musical takes place in 1958 and displays the relationship between Albert Peterson, a songwriter in the music industry, and Rose Alvarez, his secretary and lover. The two of them are in charge of the nation's hottest celebrity and every teenage girl's dream guy: Conrad Birdie. It turns out that Conrad was drafted into the army, and in order to give a proper "bye bye" to all of his fans, Rose schedules a publicity stunt for Conrad, in which he serenades and kisses one lucky fan picked at random, on live television. That lucky fan turns out to be Kim MacAfee, a fifteen-year-old girl from Sweet Apple, Ohio. Although this appears to be a dream come true for Kim, she soon discovers that people aren't always who they seem to be.

West Broward High School created a positive atmosphere throughout the entirety of the show, with an animated ensemble that welcomed you to their small town of Sweet Apple. Some actors worth noting include Sarah Gorfinkel, who portrayed the loveable Rose "Rosie" Alvarez, impressing the audience with her incredible vocal range and authentic characterization. The passionate Gorfinkel proved herself to be a triple-threat and stole the show with her dance moves during the song "Spanish Rose". Albert Peterson, played by Colin Miller, showed off his talent and graced the stage with his charming, optimistic personality. Shea Kleinman played the Elvis-like Conrad Birdie, who displayed his unmistakable stage presence in the song "Honestly Sincere".

The star-struck Kim MacAfee was played by Frankie Storfer, who accurately depicted the adventurous teenager and revealed her vocal talents in many various numbers. Kim's parents, portrayed by Julianna Rector and Jorge Amador, showed audiences that it's very important to care for your kids, even if you don't exactly understand them. Jacob Dungan played Hugo, Kim's jealous, yet hilarious "steady". Hugo's comedic timing was superb, never seeming to miss a beat.

West Broward High School's rendition of this classic tale was refreshing; the sets were colorful and represented the time period nicely. Although some mishaps occurred when it came to lights and sound, the design overall was executed quite impressively. The running crew was remarkable; each scene change was quickly accomplished and went by unnoticed. Audience members were brought back to the 1950's as the students incorporated a projection of old cartoons during the television scene, ultimately creating a sense of nostalgia that radiated across the theatre.

It has been said that if you love someone, let them go. West Broward's production of "Bye Bye Birdie" showed that some goodbyes are truly beautiful, leaving a mark on audience's hearts for weeks to come.

Dylan Redshaw
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

Have you heard about Hugo and Kim? Well, I heard they got pinned! Find out all of the stirring details at West Broward High School in their production of Bye Bye Birdie.

Bye Bye Birdie, with book by Michael Stewart, lyrics by Lee Adams, and music by Charles Strouse, is a satirical comedy based on American life in the 1950s. The adored show won Best Musical at the 1961 Tony awards and introduced many hit songs. Bye Bye Birdie follows the slick, rock & roll sensation, Conrad Birdie, when he is drafted into the army. Albert peterson, an aspiring english teacher and songwriter, is convinced he can win his girl, Rosie, and make a fortune by getting Conrad on the Ed Sullivan show to kiss a crazed teenage girl before he leaves. Chaos commences throughout the town of Sweet Apple, Ohio when Conrad comes to visit and the story unfolds further still.

The nervous, animated, Albert Peterson, was played by Colin Miller without flaw. Miller's vocals resonated beautifully and his amiable presence illuminated the stage. Albert's girlfriend and coworker, Rosie Alvarez, portrayed by Sarah Gorfinkel, was fully committed in her every scene, having a complete understanding of her bright character. Gorfinkel charmed with her phenomenal dance moves and amusing hispanic accent in her headstrong solo, "Spanish Rose". Miller and Gorfinkel had a strong, genuine chemistry and by the end of the production, their relationship developed immensely.

Shea Kleinman thoroughly portrayed his role of the smooth, teenage heartthrob, Conrad Birdie. With his killer smile and distinct body language, Kleinman was truly enjoyable to watch. Frankie Storfer as Kim MacAfee, the obsessed fan that Conrad is assigned to kiss, expressed the character of a 1950s daughter admirably. Other commendable performances include Jacob Dungan as Hugo Peabody and Abby Dungan as Ursula Merkle, who always had fantastic emotions even when they weren't the focal points.

Although at times the energy fell short, the cast as a whole provided satisfying dance numbers and pleasurable vocals in songs such as "A Lot of Livin' to do". The fanatic teen girl ensemble captivated with their clear-cut interactions and they never let their enthusiastic spirit falter. The technical components, such as makeup, sets, and lighting all contributed in making the show the best that it could be. The sound seemed to have slight trouble with the mics and a few cues, but the issues did not persist and the actors gave their greatest effort regardless.

Overall, West Broward High School's Bye Bye Birdie successfully brought the audience back to the retro years with their tuneful performance.

Carlos Hernandez
Coral Glades High School
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

With intricate and fun-to-watch dance numbers, vibrant colors throughout the whole show, and captivating characters that were a joy to follow, West Broward High School's production of BYE BYE BIRDIE made it difficult to avoid starting a fan club for the cast and crew.

Taking place in 1958, BYE BYE BIRDIE tells the story of an Elvis Presley-like superstar named Conrad Birdie on his last moments before he must join the army. Birdie's agent and songwriter, Albert Peterson arranges for Birdie to give a lucky girl from his fan club a kiss to promote Birdie's new song One Last Kiss, leading to several crazy situations. The lucky girl, Kim MacAfee, has recently gone steady with Hugo Peabody and Hugo is not happy about the kiss. Out of jealousy and rage, Hugo punches Birdie in the face on live television where the kiss was supposed to take place, causing mayhem for the rest of the show.

Colin Miller portrayed the part of Albert Peterson, who is too devoted to Conrad Birdie and his songwriting to see the love that his secretary, Rosie Alvarez, has for him. Miller did an outstanding job of showing his character's development throughout the show to his audiences and demonstrated smooth vocals. The secretary, Rosie Alvarez, who is trying to catch the eyes of Albert, is played by Sarah Gorfinkel. Gorfinkel gave a highly memorable performance in the second act with intricate dance numbers and a drastic change in character from a quirky secretary to a fierce, Latin dancer. Gorfinkel also proved her vocal ability in the second act in several songs, such as Spanish Rose and the show's sweet and final song, Rosie.

Moving the show along exceptionally well were Frankie Storfer and Jacob Dungan, who played the parts of Kim MacAfee and her jealous boyfriend, Hugo Peabody. Storfer gave the first act a boost with her song How Lovely to Be a Woman, where she showed off a superb vocal range and ability. Dungan, although not having a large part in the show, stood out to the audience with his dedication to his character. Dungan's dancing and acting ability was truly a treat for the audience. Together, Storfer and Dungan progressed the show smoothly and showed a good chemistry on stage. Also noteworthy was Jorge Amador, who portrayed Kim's protective father, Harry MacAfee. His comedic timing and energy added a great sense of humor to the show.

Although the music was too low in the first act, contributing to a low energy from the cast, the sound crew showed devotion to the show as the problem was fixed in the second act. The stage crew did an outstanding job, as they showed very smooth transitions between scenes.

West Broward High School's production of the classic musical BYE BYE BIRDIE was notably fun to watch and listen to, as the cast and crew surely put a happy face on all of the audience members throughout the entire show.

Samantha Gaynor
Coral Glades High School
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

West Broward High School killed two birdies with one stone as they brought committed actors and competent technical aspects to their dynamic production of "Bye Bye Birdie."

Set in 1958, "Bye Bye Birdie" tells the story of Elvis-like superstar, Conrad Birdie, who is drafted into the army much to the dismay of his screaming fans. His agent/songwriter Albert Peterson plans a publicity appearance before his departure in which he gives one lucky fan a kiss to promote his song. With book by Michael Stewart, lyrics by Lee Adams, and music by Charles Strouse, "Bye Bye Birdie" satires the simple American society of the late 1950s.

Capable lead actors gave this production wings. Sarah Gorfinkel as Rosie Alvarez delivered an exceptional performance that only strengthened in the second act. From her convincing movements to her powerful voice, Gorfinkel embodied the spirit of the '50s with ease. She especially shined during "Shriner's Ballet" and "Spanish Rose" in which her dancing and mannerisms gave a level of enthusiasm to her performance. Colin Miller as Albert Peterson brought sincere vocals and animated dancing to his role. His corny demeanor proved effective for the show's style.

The youthful vigor of Kim MacAfee, played by Frankie Storfer, matched well with her sweet voice and energetic acting choices. Her "How Lovely to Be a Woman" was both funny and true to her character. Jacob Dungan's delightful portrayal of Hugo Peabody created an honest and innocent personality. Dungan's comedic "drunken" moments, skilled dance steps, and proficient embodiment of the ‘50s style made him a joy to watch. The title role of the show, Conrad Birdie, portrayed by Shea Kleinman, conveyed The King's personality with humorous leg movements especially during "Honestly Sincerely." Bailey McConnell was notable as Mae Peterson for her comical dedication to the persona of a doting mother. She captured attention with her outrageous manner and zeal. Doris MacAfee and Harry MacAfee, portrayed by Julianna Rector and Jorge Amador, respectively, were also memorable for entertainingly presenting the satirical 1950s family. Amador's repeats of "Shut up" to his youngest daughter and his amusing presentation were welcome comedic reliefs.

A vibrant ensemble, both in their color scheme and their performance, were birdies of a feather whenever they appeared onstage. They executed their limited choreography with spirit and synchronization and proved most vivacious when screaming Conrad's name and singing his theme song. Ursula stood out among the group for her exuberance and commitment.

1950s commercials projected onto the scrim was a welcome technical element that appeared during "One Last Kiss." That combined with adequate overhead lighting, mostly appropriate costumes, and period makeup elevated the production.

Although some of the actors lacked energy and maturity to their performances, overall West Broward High School's production of "Bye Bye Birdie" made audience members want to strap on their blue suede shoes and dance along with charismatic characters.

Sofie Whitney
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
Submitted for publication to The Forum

From motorboat races, to midnight swims, and even the loop-the-loop! West Broward High School's production of "Bye Bye Birdie" had it all!

"Bye Bye Birdie", with music by Charles Strouse, lyrics by Lee Adams, and book by Michael Stewart is a beloved Broadway musical set in the late 1950s. The show, originally titled "Let's Go Steady" is based on when rock icon, Elvis Presley received his draft notice into the U.S. army. "Bye Bye Birdie", which won the Tony Award for Best Musical in 1961, tells the story of teen phenomenon, Conrad Birdie, and his departure to the army. His manager Albert Peterson sets up a very public goodbye for Conrad, sending him to Sweet Apple, Ohio to share a special "One Last Kiss" with a very lucky fan.

Colin Miller, as Birdie's agent and songwriter, Albert Peterson, led the show with ease. In his noteworthy solo, "Rosie", he displayed crisp vocals and fantastic characterization, clearly capturing the essence of Dick Van Dyke, who originated the role. Peterson's secretary, Rosie who doubles as his girlfriend of 8 years, was depicted by Sarah Gorfinkel, who gave a performance that was both exceptional and believable. During her powerful solo "Spanish Rose", she commanded the stage while displaying superb vocals and dancing abilities. The two had a precious chemistry that they carried out through the entirety of the show.

Frankie Storfer, as Kim MacAffe, the crazed fan that was chosen to be Conrad's "One Last Kiss", gave a truly energized performance. Storfer was fully committed to her character throughout the show. Hugo Peabody, Kim's jealous boyfriend, was played by Jacob Dungan. Dungan was consistent with his characterization and energy every time he was onstage. Storfer and Dungan had many favorable moments as a pair, especially during the song "One Boy".

Overall, the show was full of enthusiasm. At times where songs were lacking harmony or clarity, it was made up for by the enjoyable and in-sync dance numbers. The most memorable of these were "Honestly Sincere" and "A Lot of Livin To Do".

"Bye Bye Birdie" at West Broward High School is sure to have you "Put On a Happy Face"

Taylor Fish
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
Submitted for publication to Lynx

This weekend's weather forecast: The gray skies are going to clear up as soon as you find yourself at West Broward High School's production of "Bye Bye Birdie," a show that'll surely make you put on a happy face!

Inspired by the received uproar of the late 1950s when the era's star-studded icon, Elvis Presley, obtained draft notice, the 1960 Broadway success originally entitled "Let's Go Steady" satirizes the societal swoon that the adoring teenage generation feels for Conrad Birdie, a starlet who embodies the rockabilly flare of The King himself. The story encompasses the fraught romance of Albert Peterson, Conrad's agent and an aspiring English teacher, and Rosie Alvarez, his prolonged assistant and girlfriend of eight years, as they struggle to maintain Conrad's public image preceding his departure for the Army and achieve the charming, suburban life they have always dreamed of. When a vivacious Birdie buff named Kim MacAfee gets selected to appear as Conrad's "One Last Kiss" for a publicity stunt, complications arise with her new steady who disapproves of the notion to the extent of punching Conrad out on the Ed Sullivan Show.

West Broward High School captured the exuberance of the 1950s through the surging liveliness of the teenage ensemble. From flailing physicalities to ceaseless screaming, the obsessed teens demonstrated continuous elevated energy that contrasted heavily with the more mature figures of the production, generating a simulation of age disparity that aided the understanding of each character's motives.

Throughout the chaos of such a sizeable, raving ensemble of girls, Sarah Gorfinkel manages to redirect the focus of each scene to her relentlessly engaged, contentious portrayal of Rosie Alvarez. Her combative presentation and evident contemplation of her predicaments allowed the conflicts she encountered to come into absolute fruition when she exhibits a solution to her dilemma, as exemplified through the captivating refinement of "Spanish Rose," as she resolves how to coexist with her future mother-in-law with a comedic Spanish accent and flawless dance presentation. In contrast with Gorfinkel's feisty representation, Colin Miller displayed a charismatic portrayal of Albert Peterson through his sprightly vocal deliverance and chipper animation, generating an increasingly perfect chemistry between the couple as time goes on.

Frankie Storfer's youthful embodiment of Kim MacAfee epitomized the cultural vitality of adolescence during this generation, accompanied by the hilariously exaggerated physicality of Hugo Peabody, performed by Jacob Dungan. The pinned pair played marvelously off of each other in terms of comedic effect, contributing to the authenticity of their relationship.

From the effervescent set design to the efficient set changes, the production exhibited significant excellency in its technical aspects. As the curtain first parted and the theater flooded with the orange wash of the lights behind the artistically suspended rectangles representative of the era, the vibrancy of the 1950s engulfed the entirety of the auditorium, instigating sentiments towards the time period that assist the development of the production.

With music to play, places to go, and people to see, West Broward High School's production of "Bye Bye Birdie" serves as a reminder that there's such a lot of livin' to do!