Theater Review - Bring it On: The Musical

We Got Spirit!  Yes We Do!
by Philip Doyle

'Bring It On: The Musical' is inspired by the cheerleading rivalry 'Bring It On' movie franchise.  Live theatre goers have been assaulted as of late with stage versions of successful movies, to various degrees of popularity. I could mention the previous attempts, like '9 to 5', but I wouldn’t want to put a negative vibe out there in cyber land.

'Bring It On: The Musical', soars by leaps and bounds (pun intended), above and beyond its celluloid counterpart.

Set in the realm of competitive cheerleading, the characters live in diametrically opposing worlds.  The story challenges our notions of what is means to be privileged, popular, and accepted.  
The entire cast share exceptional moments of comedic and acrobatic prowess.

Head cheerleader Campbell, played by Taylor Louderman is as endearing as she is beautiful.  What amazes me the most is how she can harmonize while literally standing on the shoulders of her cast mates.  Taylor brings it!

Gregory Haney serving confident beauty as La Cienega.

Gregory Haney plays La Cienega, a confident and beautiful transgender student.  I admire how La Cienega struts the stage as an untroubled and strong woman.  I must admit that, with her unfettered attitude and amazing body, for me, Haney’s La Cienega is the perfect woman.  I think I may be in love.  I mean for realz.  Haney brings IT!

Ryann Redmond is a star.  She plays the outcast and dejected, “neurotic and weird,” Bridget, and takes her character to glorious heights of joy.  Her energetic and playful performance is an uplifting celebration of diversity that this musical is all about.    Redmond brings it, serves it, crunks it, and the audience loves it!

Elle McLemore is an adorable she-devil as the ambitious and conniving Eva. Adrienne Warren brings it with sass, and a very likeable approach, as Danielle.

Technically the show is a spectacle of lights, sound, set, and costume design that fills the theatre with radiant energy. Under the competent musical direction of Dave Pepin, the show never misses a beat.

Each cast member of 'Bring It On: The Musical' possess such a staggering arsenal of diverse performance talent, it boggles the mind.   They sing, dance, leap, tumble, and practically fly on stage.  It would be a challenge to recall a show that demands so much physical acuity and confidence.


BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL plays at the Buell Theatre until January 21st.
Tickets may be purchased at www.denvercenter.org or by calling (303) 893-4100.