The Hunchback of Notre Dame
at Annandale High School

Reviewed on April 21, 2018

Jack Hopewell
W. T. Woodson High School
Submitted for publication to Cappies News

Most can identify with the feelings of being an outcast at some point in their lives, but few are isolated entirely from the society from which they've been outcast. The story of Quasimodo the Hunchback in Annandale High School's The Hunchback of Notre Dame beautifully encapsulates the anguish and hardships experienced by the downtrodden.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame is based on a 1996 Disney film of the same name, with much of the same music and plot, but with decidedly darker themes. Said Disney film was based on a Victor Hugo novel of the same name and is the source of some of the stage adaptation's darker thematic elements. The story follows the intertwining stories of Quasimodo, a hunchback who rings the bells of Notre Dame, and Esmeralda, a gypsy girl who is tormented and pursued by Quasimodo's guardian, the Archdeacon Frollo. What follows is a parallel story of outcasts attempting to find solace in a world that does not care or want for them.

Vocally, Annandale's production was stunning. Frollo, played by John Lopez, stood out with a beautiful operatic bass-baritone voice uncharacteristic for that of a high schooler, culminating in his emotional performance of the number "Hellfire". Esmeralda, portrayed by Holly Ramia, showcased beautiful mezzo-soprano vocals alongside honest acting that made it hard not to love her portrayal. Quasimodo, played by Kyle Dalsimer, seemed to be perfectly cast. Dalsimer's wide range of acting ability made the audience feel an equally wide range of emotion, alongside a fantastic physicality and incredibly impressive tenor voice, made even more extraordinary by his broken elbow and his need to be hunched over for the role, making vocal support that much harder.

Vocal and instrumental backing for the show was impressive as well, with a choir in the background adding vocal depth and helpful exposition, and the Circle of Fifths orchestra providing rich instrumentation that fleshed out Menken and Schwartz's beautifully written music. For supporting ensembles, few could do better than the gargoyles surrounding Quasimodo, who brought moments of humor, as well as profound emotion, as evidenced in the number "Made of Stone".

Annandale's production was technically impressive, with costuming that accurately captured the vibrancy of the impoverished gypsies, as well as a costume for Quasimodo that helped portray his debilitated and pathetic form. Lighting made good use of practicals and cyclorama coloring, but at times the transitions were sudden and jarring, with few (if any) fades present throughout the show.

If anything, Annandale High School has only proved their prowess and potential for the theatrical arts, with a diverse and talented cast and crew that will undoubtedly carry their program far in the coming years. While Quasimodo may have been made of stone at one point, no one, not even the most hardened of audience members, could be left feeling anything but touched by the show's closing.

Grace Tecala
Paul VI Catholic High School
Submitted for publication to Cappies News 2

With a blend of music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, a book by Peter Parnell, a cast full of vocal powerhouses and the chilling setting of 1482 Paris, the Annandale Theatre Company's production of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" was emotionally captivating and held the audience attentive for its full length. Based on Victor Hugo's 1831 novel under the same title, the story follows Quasimodo, a hunchbacked outcast who rings the bells of the Notre Dame cathedral, aspiring for a life outside the stone walls he calls home. When enchanting Esmeralda, a rule-breaking, passionate gypsy, saves him from social torment, Quasimodo's life is forever changed.

An unfortunate turn of events for the Annandale Theatre Company (ATC) occurred when star of the show Quasimodo (Kyle Dalsimer) broke his arm two days before opening night. As his character might, with pluck and determination, Dalsimer rearranged choreography and concealed his sling behind a costume, still delivering an unbelievably charming performance. Usually a tall and handsome junior at Annandale High School, Dalsimer was able to utilize drastic physicality to completely transform into the ugly, pained Quasimodo. His vocals added to the already stellar work, showing impressive range and emotion. With a hunched demeanor and often squatted stance, Dalsimer displayed his vocal talent and expertise with amazing breath support to reach notes that had the audience on their feet. His voice was especially impactful in songs "Made of Stone," and "Top of the World," a duet sung with his equally compelling costar, Esmeralda.

This moxie gypsy was played with grace by senior Holly Ramia. Donned in a dynamic costume, created by the ATC's own costume crew, Ramia's presence had the crowd hanging on her every word. Although seemingly fearless and bold, Ramia achieved a multi-faceted Esmeralda, a genuine, gentle side brought out in "God Help the Outcasts" and "Someday." Backing Quasimodo and Esmeralda was a choir of four girls, the Congregants (Elvera Miller, Claire Vaughn, Rediate Zewdu, and Savannah Gravitt), whose harmonies stunned the audience during their chanted narrations of the plot.

Equally impressive to the cast was the technical side of the production. Although often overlooked, the lighting design of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame", designed and executed by Kataryna Vejcik and Elisabeth Platt, added to the chilling story. With unique shadows and colors, the lighting elevated characters and created a tone that brought Paris to life. Perfectly synchronized to the lighting cues, sound effects, and the characters themselves was the impeccable orchestra. Placed directly in front of the stage, the twenty-six-student orchestra was professional and sleek. Most impressive was the work done by the Marketing and Publicity crew (Hasan Royer and Diana Montano-Villarroel), allowing the show to be anticipated far before opening night. From a hand designed logo printed on posters, programs, and t-shirts, to a flash mob performed during lunch period for the school, the Annandale community was excited for the show far in advance.

Leaving the audience teary-eyed and empowered, Annandale Theatre Company's "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" was magical and entertaining. From lead to chorus to orchestra to crew, each aspect of the production came together to truly pull the audience into a completely different world.

Katherine Kelly
McLean High School
Submitted for publication to FCPS Community News

The world is safe inside the cathedral, blocking out the hate and temptations of Notre Dame, but love and acceptance may also be waiting beyond the walls. Annandale High School's beautiful rendition of The Hunchback of Notre Dame pulled at heartstrings with every pull of a bell.

The Hunchback of Notre Dame is a story with a rich history, which contributes to the timeless themes of the modern musical. First penned by Victor Hugo in 1831, it has since been adapted into a multitude of films, most notably the 1996 Walt Disney Pictures animated version. The musical opened in 1999 in Germany, featuring songs from the movie. It follows Quasimodo, an orphaned hunchback born of a gypsy. Raised by his uncle, Frollo, a priest for the Notre Dame cathedral, Quasimodo has been kept away from the world his whole life. Upon entering the streets of Notre Dame for the first time, he finds himself falling in love with Esmeralda, a kind gypsy. Tables are turned, however, when Frollo orders that Esmeralda be killed.

The abused Quasimodo was performed with grandiose by Kyle Dalsimer, whose unsure demeanor and actions when in the presence of Frollo contrasted with his powerful, soaring voice when alone. Dalsimer perfectly captured Quasimodo's character arc as he began to develop his own morality and falls for Esmerelda, played by Holly Ramia, with whom he possessed an endearing chemistry. Ramia was also notable in her own right: her melodious and skilled vocals stood out in each song, and the authentic emotions she eminanted enhanced her performance.

Another onstage standout was John Lopez, playing Frollo. His mature voice was a definite highlight of the night, as he captivated the audience with his commanding solos as well as harmonizing mellifluously with other cast members. Contrasting Frollo's stern manner, the gypsy girls were vivid and vivacious, performing playfully as they twirled through the streets. The gypsy leader, Clopin, was played by Hidaya Hussen, whose expressive facials and bold movements helped her shine.

Thoughtful technical elements transformed the stage into a "place of miracles". The props possessed a clear attention to detail, with small coin pouches, handmade ropes, and even small puppets helping to move the plot along. Colorful and detailed costumes adorned the cast, who performed on a beautifully textured and effective set. Lighting designs, complete with a gorgeous stained glass window, shadows, and spotlights, made for many chilling moments. The large orchestra was constantly in sync and performed beautifully, enhancing each wonderful song.

Everyone has felt like an outcast before, and Annandale High School gracefully captured this sentiment in their touching performance of The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Complete with a talented cast and crew, the production left every audience member with a reminder to accept others, and to approach life with kindness and love.

Emma Shacochis
Oakton High School
Submitted for publication to Patch.com

"What makes a monster, and what makes a man?" is the riddle a young man poses to the audience, before transforming into the infamous bell-ringer of Paris's famed cathedral. As the audience ponders the question, a myriad of thoughtful performances and a gorgeous Gothic aesthetic unify in Annandale High School's "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" to create a complex, showstopping musical.

Based on Victor Hugo's classic novel, as well as the 1996 Disney animated film, "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" features book by Peter Parnell, music by Alan Menken, and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. Originally premiering in Berlin in 1999, the acclaimed musical transferred to America with runs at La Jolla Playhouse in 2014 and the Paper Mill Playhouse in 2015.

Set in 15th century Paris, in the bell towers of Notre Dame Cathedral, deformed hunchback Quasimodo dwells in isolation while longing for the world outside. As he falls in love with the kind gypsy Esmeralda, a fellow outcast, Quasimodo struggles to be loyal to her while living in fear of his caretaker, extremist archdeacon Frollo.

As Quasimodo, Kyle Dalsimer gives a stunningly transformative and sensitive performance. Amid skillfully scrambling along the scaffolding of the bell tower, Dalsimer lends maturity to Quasimodo's struggles with morality and loyalty. Dalsimer blends an affected accent and hobbling posture with a tenor as one of Notre Dame's bells, radiating hope in "Heaven's Light" and struggling with desperation in "Made of Stone".

One of the most chilling aspects of the musical is the emotionally abusive relationship between Quasimodo and his uncle, Dom Claude Frollo (John Lopez). Lopez, as the pious and prejudiced priest, lends his booming, malevolent voice to the vocal highlight, "Hellfire".

From her stunning entrance in "Rhythm of the Tambourine", Holly Ramia shines as the beguiling gypsy Esmeralda. Ramia endearingly unites the defiance and tenderness of her character, as she radiates wonder and awe when entering Notre Dame for the first time and gazing over the streets of Paris. Ramia lends a lovely, longing voice to "God Help the Outcasts", showing the selflessness of her character while illuminated by stained glass.

Additionally, Hidaya Hussen's Clopin, the Queen of the Gypsies, is sharp and sly, excellently hitting her low notes while skulking through the alleys of Paris.

The various ensembles, whether omnipresent or ominous, were essential for brining the scenes and songs to life. The harmonies of the large church choir added greater eeriness to "Olim"; the quartet of Congregants, serving as narrators, were concurrent collaborators; Clopin's band of gypsies never faltered in energy while executing rapid choreography in pubs and the town square; and Quasimodo's dynamic group of gargoyle friends were anything but stoic in their enthusiastic support for him.

The stationary set (Cort Hollis, et al.), inspired by Gothic architecture, aided in showing the heavy religious influence of the time, including spacious choir-stalls, a checker-patterned floor, and an exquisite stained glass window. The multitude of concealed ladders and stairs were especially effective for the many entrances to the bell tower.

The special effects (Long Nguyen) provided Esmeralda's "gypsy magic" through a geyser of smoke that allowed quick and dramatic exits, as well as a threatening, smoldering pyre used in a climactic, attempted execution.

The Circle of Fifths Orchestra performed the intense score brilliantly, elevating the haunting melodies while never overpowering the company.

Annandale High School's masterful production of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame", featuring rich vocal performances and enthralling technical design, is as powerful and commanding as the instruments Quasimodo rings.

Vanessa Rivera
Oakton High School
Submitted for publication to Connection

The sound of a booming bell fills the air and signals a story of love, alienation, and acceptance. As choirs start to sing and Gypsies prepare to dance, the spellbinding story of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" begins.

"The Hunchback of Notre Dame" is based on the 1831 novel by Victor Hugo. The musical version includes songs from the 1996 Disney Film adaptation, along with book by Peter Parnell. An original German production in 1999 transformed into an English version at the La Jolla Playhouse in San Diego in 2014. Set in 1482 Paris, the story centers on Quasimodo, a kind hearted soul deformed since birth and consequently hidden away in a church bell tower by his uncle, Frollo. With only stone to converse with, Quasimodo's world turned topsy turvy when the captivating gypsy, Esmeralda, shows him unfamiliar kindness. As the villainous Frollo plans to run Esmeralda out of Paris, Quasimodo must question everything he believes in.

The lovable and complex character of Quasimodo was brought to life by Kyle Dalsimer. His full commitment to the demanding physical hunch of his character, as well as the shy voice of Quasimodo, was an anchor of the show. However, Dalsimer's stunning vocal proficiency and professional acting skills exceeded expectations, evident during "Made of Stone". Quasimodo's adorable chemistry with the alluring Esmeralda pulls the heartstrings of the audience during tender moments such as "On the Top of the World". The seductive gypsy Esmeralda, portrayed by Holly Ramia, stole the hearts of many with elegance. Ramia's character, an outcast searching for a place called of acceptance, is both strong and vulnerable, a dynamic displayed during her knockout solo "God Help the Outcasts".

The unified Gargoyles (Ioana Marin, Jack Dalrymple, Kathy Strong, and Emily Trachsel) consistently remained in character as they swayed Quasimodo's decisions or as they sat still as stones. Clopin Trouillefou, played by Hidaya Hussen, brought a sack full of energy with her exorbitant facial expressions as she led the playful gypsies.

Multiple set pieces were wonderfully crafted, such as the intricate stained glass window of regal and vibrant colors. Lighting elevated scenes to create a complementary ambiance to the set; somber and deep red lighting illuminated during "Hellfire", further intensifying the commanding voice of Frollo (John Lopez). Furthermore, skillfully used ombre lighting created an enticing backdrop for select scenes. Props were notably throughout, from handmade coin purses to add integrity to every detail. The grandiose orchestra tied together the production perfectly. By matching each performer and producing mesmerizing harmonies, the pit brought each song to life.

The combined power of the riveting orchestra, stunning vocal talent, and lighting effects produced an awe inspiring production of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame".

Maggie Landis
Thomas A. Edison High School
Submitted for publication to Fairfax County Times

Man or monster? How do we justify judging a person based solely on appearance? Annandale High School's gorgeous production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame brought a complex Paris environment all the way across the ocean to share an incredible story of prejudice, loss, and love.

Based upon the Disney animated film and the 1831 novel by Victor Hugo, this challenging musical follows Quasimodo, the isolated cripple, as he grapples with his longing to venture beyond the high stone parapets of the Notre Dame bell tower, going against the wishes of Dom Claude Frollo, who rescued the orphan and cautioned him never to leave the citadel lest Quasimodo be drawn to the "impure" gypsies. When Esmeralda arrives and unwittingly ensnares the attention of Frollo, Quasimodo, and Phoebus, the captain of the guard, the enigmatic gypsy dancer locks the city in a hunt for justice.

With their colorful, flamboyant skirts, the ensemble of gypsies dominated their scenes, particularly "Topsy Turvy," their main opportunity to showcase a massive array of talent. Led by Hidaya Hussen as Clopin Trouillefou, Queen of the Gypsies, these seductive women danced their way into the audience's memory, ensuring we will never forget the story of the downtrodden. Hussen herself made terrific use of her enchanting voice to pump life into songs and dance numbers alike, while still conveying her tale with emotion and clarity.

Starring as the iconic hunchback, Kyle Dalsimer truly had everyone convinced they were seeing heaven's light. His captivating vocal range lent itself nicely to the character, catering to impressively high notes, and an astonishing character voice and adorable quirks earned this lovable character the audience's pity. Remarkable physicality made Quasimodo's disabilities believable. Meanwhile, Esmeralda's flirtatious, flowing movements, as portrayed by Holly Ramia, contrasted pleasantly with Dalsimer's more limited actions. In their endearing song, "Top of the World," both actors shone as their characters' relationship grew in the most irresistible way.

John Lopez beamed as Dom Claude Frollo, the show's main antagonist, especially during his number "Hellfire," in which he presented Esmeralda with an ugly ultimatum: choose him, or choose death. Later, Lopez and Ramia's scene, where Esmeralda makes her choice, was executed powerfully, with maturity and brilliantly crafted tension. Garrett Meadows skillfully performed as Phoebus, avoiding the soldier stereotype through humor.

Full-stage sets, designed by Kyle Dalsimer and Cort Hollis, emulated Notre Dame beautifully. Painted to look like marble and sandstone, multi-level platforms created visually pleasing levels onstage from the floor to the ceiling - literally, as they even painted the floors. Attractive costumes kept characters interesting to look at and expressed each personality nicely. Despite some sound issues, the cast's energy easily covered for any missteps, and colorful lighting enhanced scenes when it shifted from reds to purples to blues and back again.

Even with a run time of two and a half hours, Annandale's The Hunchback of Notre Dame had everyone wishing it would go on longer, wanting to see more, as this wonderful cast excellently told this classic tale of woe.