Bring It On
at North Broward Preparatory School

Reviewed on October 19, 2018

Dylan Redshaw
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Sprinkled with spectacular stunts, soaring straddle jumps, and a whole lot of sass, North Broward Preparatory School's production of "Bring It On" truly captured the epitome of high school cheer and wiped the floor with their legendary performance.

With score by Tony-award winning team, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Tom Kitt, this contemporary hit musical focuses on the life of Campbell Davis, head cheerleader at wealthy and white Truman High, who is suddenly redistricted to Jackson, a nearby school with no cheer squad. Despite her negative expectations, Campbell befriends the dance crew at Jackson and, with some help from its headstrong leader, Danielle, manages to form a powerhouse team for the cheer National Championships. This spirited musical, loosely based on the 2000 film, received a Best Musical Tony award nomination after its 2012 run, and holds the record for most debuts in a production with thirty out of the thirty-five cast members flipping across the Broadway stage for the first time ever.

Leading the production with fierce charisma was Madeline Finkelman as the former ruler of Truman High, Campbell Davis. Finkelman convincingly depicted Campbell's spunky, teenage girl persona, while still managing to reach the genuine core of her cheerleader spirit. In her solo "One Perfect Moment", Finkelman was able to showcase her compassionate side, as well as her beautiful voice and stunning falsetto. Alongside Finkelman was Juliana Castillo, playing the almighty Jackson crew leader, Danielle, who fully embodied her character's sassy personality through her dominant stage presence and bold dance moves, most notably in the "Do Your Own Thing" dance break. Natalie Langnas, playing the cheery misfit, Bridget, brought the high school reality to life as she exquisitely exhibited the comedic heart of her eccentric role, as well as her powerful vocals in her solo, "It Ain't No Thing".

Portraying Campbell's popular new lover, Randall, Daniel Haubner illustrated clear chemistry with Finkelman and stunned the audience with his impressive vocal range, on top of his standout guitar performance in "Enjoy the Trip". The inevitable antagonist of the play's plot, Eva, was depicted by Eve Cohen with engaging character development from the sweet, young protégée to the manipulative cheerleading queen. By truly following her (killer) instinct, Cohen masterfully presented a variety of diverse facial expressions and brought the show full circle as she sneakily worked her way to the top of the cheer pyramid.

The ensemble helped to solidify the two distinct cheerleading squads at Truman and Jackson through their sharp movements and entertaining cheers. Though occasionally lacking energy, the cast as a whole strengthened the high-flying journey with thrilling basket tosses and striking images at the end of each routine.

Technically, the show was executed brilliantly. Costumes, by Juliana McCabe, heightened the authenticity of the performance with extremely efficient selections and remarkable attention to detail for each school's uniform. The colorful lighting properly fit the lively production and thoroughly enhanced the mood of every scene, most notably in Eva's demonic outbursts with dark red hues across the stage.

All in all, the superior cast and crew at North Broward Preparatory School stuck the final landing and made each moment a perfect one in its "cheertastic" production of "Bring It On".

Leah Tomas
JP Taravella High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Ready? OK! Put on your best cheer face and get ready for North Broward Preparatory School's "Legendary" production of Bring it On the Musical. The story follows high school senior Campbell Davis and her quest to find her "One Perfect Moment" as captain of the cheerleading squad, and the trouble that ensues when her Sophomore Spirit Leader Eva conspires against her in an attempt to steal her spotlight.

Featuring a book created by Jeff Whitty and paired with music composed by Tom Kitt and Lin-Manuel Miranda underscoring lyrics written by Amanda Green and Lin-Manuel Miranda, Bring it On: the Musical was inspired by the hit 2000 film of the same name. Bring it On premiered at the Alliance Theater in Atlanta during January of 2011, followed by a national tour in November of 2011, and the musical's Broadway run from July to December of 2012. The Broadway cast was comprised of seasoned professionals including Taylor Louderman (Campbell) and Kate Rockwell (Skylar), as well as several award winning regional cheerleaders. Bring it On made history by establishing itself as the first piece of musical theatre to feature a transgender character.

Madeline Finkelman (Campbell) delivered stunning vocals and excellent characterization during her performance, and the development of her relationship with Daniel Haubner (Randall) was fascinating to watch. The two expressed clear commitment to their roles and boundless vocal abilities during the song "Enjoy the Trip", and their chemistry was impeccable. Juliana Castillo (Danielle) demonstrated impressive dance abilities and strong objectives throughout the production. Her commanding presence and sass brought an air of confidence and competition to the stage.

Natalie Langnas (Bridget) effortlessly captured and portrayed the infectious energy and charisma of her character. Combined with Evan Laufman's (Twig) brilliant comedic timing, the two were a hysterical duo that provided much of the production's comedic relief. Eve Cohen (Eva) did an amazing job portraying an extremely vicious and complex character. She showcased "killer" vocal abilities, phenomenal acting, and immense focus during the scenes in which she was featured.

Though at times lacking energy and facial expressions, the ensemble members of this production did a great job tackling the intricate cheerleading and dance sequences they were faced with. Some actors appeared to struggle with the musicality and timing of certain numbers, but the overall ensemble demonstrated exceptional harmonies and balanced blending. Samantha Hallenberg (Kylar) was a strong leader of the ensemble, along with Skylar Minett (Skylar), and Dylan Jost (Steven).

The technical elements of this show were overall very well executed. Aside from minor inconsistencies in costumes and sound, The tech crew presented seamless set transitions, and tasteful use of onstage screens, fog, and lighting along the proscenium arch.

North Broward Preparatory school combined themes of friendship, acceptance, and determination to create a production of Bring it On the Musical that will convince you that being different "Ain't No Thing", and that high school can be a place where your happiest memories are made if you just make an effort to "Enjoy the Trip."

Rylee Berger
Cooper City High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

"Truman girls are superhuman girls," and North Broward Preparatory School students are just as extraordinary. "Bring It On" at North Broward was a "Legendary" production that made for a night of not-to-be-missed and engaging theatre.

Inspired by the 2000 movie of the same name, "Bring It On" was nominated for two Tony Awards, including Best Musical, when it ran on Broadway in 2012. With a libretto by Jeff Whitty, music by Tom Kitt and Lin-Manuel Miranda, and lyrics by Amanda Green and Lin-Manuel Miranda, "Bring It On" follows the story of Campbell (Madeline Finkelman) as she navigates the complexities of high school while attempting to win the coveted Nationals' trophy for cheerleading. However, Campbell's efforts are undermined when new-girl Eva (Eve Cohen) conspires to take the power - and the trophy - for herself. Ultimately, Campbell learns that winning the trophy is less important when the true prize is friendship.

As Campbell, Finkelman maintained a believable character and was consistently engaging throughout her performance. Showcasing a complex and wide range, strong acting ability, and vocal prowess, Finkelman truly enveloped her character's genuine personality. Opposite Campbell stood Eve Cohen as the manipulative Eva. Cohen had a clear understanding of her character's arc, developing Eva from the quiet, eager-to-please new girl to a villainous and superficial mastermind. Cohen's physicality, voice, and facial expressions were highlighted in Campbell's nightmare sequences and in the entertaining "Killer Instinct."

Natalie Langnas as Bridget delivered a performance full of comedy and heartwarming authenticity. Be it in a parrot costume or a quirky outfit from her mom's closet, Langnas had impeccable vocals and was successful in portraying the awkward but equally adorable relationship between herself and Twig (Evan Laufman). Laufman's comedic timing and performance were strong and consistent from start to finish.

The vocal performance of the entire cast was strong, even through demanding choreography. Cheer stunts, though perhaps overused, were well-executed. Despite parts of the ensemble lacking energy and synchronicity, many members of the company stood out in their commitment to their characters, creating stunning stage pictures and entertaining ensemble work. This work stood out in numbers such as "What I Was Born to Do," "Bring It On," and "I Got You," which showcased their skills in both voice and dance.

The publicity team (Cohen, Langnas, and Finkelman) sold out both performances and executed a well-thought-out, cohesive, and creative campaign. Costumes (Juliana McCabe) were successful in defining the differences between the two schools. Though at times mic belts were visible and scene changes were distracting, the technical elements allowed both the actors and the audience to become enveloped in the world of competitive high school cheerleading.

Filled with strong performances, demanding choreography, and incredible vocals, North Broward's "Bring It On" is "One Perfect Moment" after the next.

Emma Sugarman
JP Taravella High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Tumble into the theatre because next on the mat is North Broward Preparatory School's high flying production of "Bring It On: The Musical." Grab your pom poms and prepare to enter the electrifying world of cheerleading, rivalries, and romance.

With a book by Jeff Whitty, music by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Tom Kitt, and lyrics by Miranda and Amanda Green, Bring It On is the story of a typical, popular cheerleader who seems to have it all until she is forced to change schools. Everything is unfamiliar to her including manipulation, exclusion, and no cheer squad. Loosely based on the film, "Bring It On" by Jessica Bendinger, this production demonstrates the struggles of fitting into a new school.

Though her character, Campbell, lost the position as captain at her former school, Madeline Finkelman certainly led her team to success. Finkelman's clear vocals and expressive tone captured the essence of her vocally rigorous role. Her distinguished facials were maintained throughout her complex dancing and impressive stunts. Portraying Danielle, the assertive leader of the crew, Juliana Castillo displayed a fierce personality while incorporating caring attributes. Every time she entered the stage, she exuded a powerful presence.

Conveying the villainous Eva, Eve Cohen displayed her transition from the amiable neighbor to the manipulative tyrant of the cheerleaders excellently. The quirky friend Bridget, played by Natalie Langnas, brought a hilarious spirit with her impeccable comedic timing and carefree physicality. Accompanying Bridget was the audacious hip hop enthusiast, Twig, played by Evan Laufman. Laufman and Langnas presented exceptional chemistry and bounced off each other's amusing one liners.

Although their energy levels were periodically inconsistent, the ensemble provided diverse characterization, adding an extra level of entertainment. The ensemble did a magnificent job varying their body language and facial expressions based on the environment of the scene. Though both equally impressive, the contrast between the choreography of the Truman and Jackson squads helped differentiate the atmospheres of the two schools.

The technical aspects of the performance enhanced the overall quality of the musical. Though the set changes could have been tighter, the simplistic set was a great building block which allowed for additional scenery pieces to be added to distinguish the different settings. The costumes were very efficient in capturing the different identities of each character. However, exposed mic belts occasionally took away from the buzzing world of the musical. Although occasionally overpowering the actors, the orchestra provided a driving force behind the lyrics of each song.

This exuberant performance reminds us you do not always have to stick the landing; however, this all star cast undoubtedly did. So chant, jump, and "do your own thing" with North Broward Preparatory School's production of "Bring It On: The Musical." You will certainly "enjoy the trip."

Jonah Warhaft
American Heritage School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Although High School may be a source of stress for many, having a niche may be the one thing that can get you through! For some, however, the liberty of fulfilling that interest can be ruthlessly stripped at any moment as emphasized in North Broward Preparatory School's highflying production of "Bring It On: The Musical".

"Bring It On" premiered on Broadway in 2012 alongside 32 novices. Holding the record for the most Broadway debuts in one night, the show partnered with coveted Varsity Spirit to bring cheerleading to the stage. Additionally, it was the first musical to showcase a transgender high school character; a momentous milestone for the LGBTQ+ community. The show revolves around head cheerleader Campbell, who is unexpectedly redistricted and forced to a new school just two weeks shy of her senior year. Though closing after just 173 regular performances, "Bring It On" was nominated for 5 Drama Desk Awards and 2 Tony Awards. With music and lyrics by Lin Manuel Miranda and Tom Kitt, it's no wonder the show was such a hit!

Starring as Campbell, Madeline Finkelman brought layers of emotion adding to the depth of her character. Finkelman's vocal performance was well beyond expectation and truly added to the emotional expression in her character. The source of her characterization was her eyes, however, portraying the rawness needed to drive the show forward. Although her voice was amongst the strongest in the cast, she never let it interfere with her acting, always doing something new with the different words she was saying. Altogether, Finkelman shined brightly amongst her cast mates and did an excellent job leading the show across the finish line.

Other standouts included none other than the parrot head herself, Bridget, played by Natalie Langnas. Showcasing exceptional use of comedic timing, her scenes always filled the theater with laughter. Langnas wowed the audience with her powerful voice while consistently keeping her awkward inexperienced persona alive. Alongside Langnas was Evan Laufman as Twig. Always doing something notable on the outskirts of the scene, Laufman kept the stage alive with his larger than life expressions and his admirable interest in Bridget. Together, the two were hilarious and left the audience in heaps of laughter.

Technically, the show was very pleasing to the eye. The set was well-crafted and aided the cast in creating an ambience perfect for the show. Though the costumes felt appropriate, the lack of complexity shone through and at times yearned for improvement. Inversely, the marketing and publicity team did an awesome job promoting the show. The use of a "spirit stick" to showcase those "Cross(ing) the Line" of rehearsing and performing was a fantastic addition on social media accounts.

As a whole, North Broward Preparatory School's production of "Bring It On" was strong, witty, and filled with well constructed comedy; showcasing immense vocal talent, leaving the audience wanting more!

Nicole Sugarman
JP Taravella High School
Submitted for publication to

In the merciless realm of competitive high school cheerleading, a superb squad consists of devoted teammates with passion running through their veins from their sparkly bows to their tired toes. In North Broward Preparatory School's dazzling production of "Bring It On: The Musical," these "superhuman" students truly stuck the landing and delighted viewers with a legendary experience.

With a fierce book by Jeff Whitty, this hilarious musical follows 17-year-old Campbell as her dreams of becoming cheer royalty at Truman High are brutally snatched away from her when a redistricting letter declares she will be attending the rougher-and-tougher neighboring high school, Jackson High. Based on the smash film of the same name, "Bring it On: The Musical" features vivacious music and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda, music by Tom Kitt, and lyrics by Amanda Green.

Everyone knows that an exceptional cheerleading squad needs a supportive and reliable base, otherwise stunts will come crashing down and pyramids will crumble. Madeline Finkelman, playing the kindhearted yet determined Campbell served as a concrete foundation for this spectacular production to build upon. With her impressive vocals and stellar characterization, Finkelman allowed the show to soar. Playing the fiery leader of Jackson's dance crew, Danielle, Juliana Castillo captured this feisty lady's attitude and realistically portrayed her frustrations. Finkelman and Castillo developed an intriguing relationship and a smooth rapport as the show progressed, allowing viewers to establish an emotional connection to the actresses and fully grasp the stakes of the production.

Daniel Haubner, playing Randall, the lovable Jackson DJ, showcased phenomenal vocal ability and a charismatic persona. Haubner and Finkelman established a genuine relationship with a gradual build in their compelling chemistry. Playing Eva, the "lowly" sophomore social-climber with secret devilish motives, Eve Cohen immaculately displayed her characters transition from sweet innocence to sheer villainy. Bridget, the quirky Buccaneer mascot, was played by Natalie Langnas. With her well-executed antics, bold dance moves, and outstanding comedic timing, Langnas successfully breathed life and hilarity into the role.

With crisp harmonies and lively facial expressions, the ensemble elevated the overall production value and enhanced the hectic high school atmosphere. Although occasionally lacking in energy, the performers showcased an intense commitment to their characters and remained reactive throughout each scene, whether or not they were the main focus at that particular moment. The cast did a commendable job differentiating the Truman and Jackson ensembles through their mannerisms, dancing style, and overall characterization.

The costuming, hair, and makeup in this production were befitting to every character and assisted in signifying the difference between the two rival schools and squads. The simplistic yet versatile set allowed for swift scene changes and visually appealing scenery. The lighting and set worked hand-in-hand to effectively create each distinct environment.

Bust out your pom poms, hang on to that spirit stick, and slap on an obnoxious cheer face! North Broward Preparatory School's exuberant production of "Bring it On: The Musical" reminds all tensed high schoolers that entering adulthood with a shiny trophy in tow is worthless compared to the lifelong friendships you will carry in your heart.