It could be quite easy to write off a lighthearted show like “Bring It On: The Musical.” Writer Jeff Whitty took the familiar “Bring It On” plotline and created a cast of tongue-in-cheek characters who drive home the message of staying true to yourself when “life hands you a lemon.” The musical numbers are flashy and impressive, and the characters are a homecoming to the pizazz and showmanship typical of Broadway fashion.
However, this deduction would not do the show one sliver of justice. “Bring It On: The Musical” is a high-flying, high-energy show that deserves high expectations. From the opening number to the curtain call, Andy Blankenbuehler’s choreography creates a human fireworks show of cheer stunts and actors bursting with talent.
Each aspect came together in harmony to create an invigorating show of human athleticism, friendship and forgiveness. Within the first few minutes of the show the audience was immersed in the pep and sass that would define the charm of the musical.
When high school senior Campbell is elected cheer captain at the affluent Truman High, she feels as though her dreams are coming true. After holding tryouts, Campbell selects longtime neighbor Eva to join the squad and take on the role of sophomore spirit leader. In a turn of events Campbell is redistricted to the urban Jackson High School. Little does she know that Eva has conspired against her to take her newfound title as captain. Campbell, with the help the Jackson hip hop squad, takes on Eva and the Truman squad at the Cheerleading National Championship to show everyone what they are made of.
The cast of characters paints a humorous satire of high school life. The music helps the characters form the atmosphere of each school. This, in conjunction with the believable costumes and the minimalist set let the audience’s imagination take control.
A visionary use of video design and lighting takes the audience into Campbell’s mind through hilarious day dreaming sequences. These sequences allow the audience to make a more intimate connection with Campbell while revealing the truth about Eva’s intentions.
Although both squads are stereotyped in the musical, they create a humorous balance that is widely attractive to the audience. The Truman squad is portrayed as the loyal yet spoiled white children of the self-proclaimed “1 percent.” In contrast, the members of the Jackson squad are portrayed as thick-skinned, diverse, and driven members of an underprivileged neighborhood. Both squads provide a unique insight to current challenges faced by young people today.
Skylar is a sultry member of the Truman squad. The stereotype of a high school mean girl, Skylar bring up issues of self-image. Proclaiming that she is “so upset she will actually eat something,” Skylar humorously points to the grisly reality of eating disorders faced by many high school students.
Bridget is a quirky and humorous supporting character despite battling her low self-confidence. Bridget, who is also redistricted, begins to receive unanticipated romantic affection from Twig. Realizing she is worth his attention, Bridget overcomes her nerves and gains a higher opinion of self.
Queen bee of Jackson High, Danielle shines the light on financial limitations of the working class faced by many minority students. Working nights and weekends, Danielle attempts to save enough money for college and receive an education that will “liberate” her from her disadvantaged surroundings.
Despite all of these important reflections, La Cienega becomes the face of love and acceptance. La Cienega is the first teenage transgender character to grace the Broadway stage; and grace it she does. Although her sexuality is not directly discussed in the show, La Cienega chooses to use her story to foster self-love in others.
When Bridget is distressing to her newly found Jackson friends about being an outcast she blurts out “You wouldn’t understand!” La Cienega merely replies with a “Really?” that had the audience in stiches. Despite being drenched in satire, La Cienega brings issues of sexuality and identity into the spotlight with such style that only her character could portray.
Whether its for the awe-inspiring stunts or the touching storyline, “Bring It On: The Musical” will make you want to wiggle your spirit fingers.