Reviews: Mean Girls (HS Edition) at James Madison HS
Written by Madilyn Tan of Gainesville High School
Pink miniskirts, assigned lunch tables, and teenage drama are all on display at James Madison High School's production of Mean Girls High School Edition!
Gwyneth Kemeny and Nate Borrowman set the stage as Cady's first friends at Northshore High, Janis Sarkisian and Damian Hubbard. The iconic duo takes great pleasure in mentoring this 'poor, naive girl', most notably displayed by Kemeny and Borrowman's enthusiasm during "Where Do You Belong?" Although they have differing aesthetics, the two stick together like glue, bonded by being unapologetically unique with a variety of activism pins. Kemeny and Borrowman take these roles to the next level, actively bouncing off of each other's energy, only making their chemistry stronger.
Cady Heron, played by Naomi Mudrick, is determined to fit in with other teens her age by committing to trends and attempting to have a typical love life after being homeschooled back home in Kenya. The awkward straight-A student takes a turn when she is inadvertently inducted the wrong crowds. Mudrick presented all sides of Cady flawlessly, being able to convey her character's pivoting personality and vulnerable emotions throughout the entirety of the show. Not only does Mudrick embody Cady's physicality, but she also maintains a strong vocal presence with her variety of range and power.
Gretchen Wieners, Karen Smith, and their fierce leader, Regina George, are the most respected and judgmental girls of Northshore High, also known as the Plastics. Caroline Kugler and Grace Rodstrom as Gretchen and Karen use their all to appeal to Regina's agenda. Regina, played by Elizabeth Cha, manages to deal with Gretchen kneeling at her feet and Karen's cluelessness, while plotting on the new girl's downfall. Cha elevated her character with such confidence and sass to firmly ensure that the audience knows exactly who Regina George is. Altogether, the trio's dynamic is sealed with their corresponding outfits and complementing vocals in songs like "Meet the Plastics", where each of the girls also got the opportunity to showcase their unique quirks.
As the Mean Girls franchise is well known for their branding that surrounds feminine fashion, crew chief Ember Burke and the rest of the JMHS Costume Crew workedhard to implement their iconic outfits. A variety of craftsmanship was thoroughly displayed on characters by using costumes that were either altered or made completely from scratch. Giving attention to these details, from a small necklace or a contrasting statement jacket, made the visual appeal of this production exceptionally cohesive and on-point.
Similarly, the JMHS Pit Orchestra enhanced the production in ways that pre-recorded tracks couldn't. Being able to encapsulate contemporary music, although using limited instruments, was highly effective regarding the quality and volume of the music. The 20 student musicians kept their focus for every score and song, even having time to act in comedic interactions with the on-stage characters.
Showcasing the high school experience filled with laughter, trend following, and urging tension between enemies (or even friends), James Madison High School's production of Mean Girls HS Edition takes this story to another level, you could even call it “fetch.”
Written by Josephin Friedrich of Langley High School
From the depths of North Shore High, a cautionary tale of teenage tyranny and pink Wednesdays emerged... and James Madison High School's production brought that tale to hilarious life.
Based on Tina Fey's hit 2004 film, Mean Girls was adapted into a Broadway musical, bringing the story of Cady Heron and the Plastics to the stage with music by Jeff Richmond and lyrics by Nell Benjamin. The plot centers around Cady Heron, a homeschooled teenager who was homeschooled in Africa all her life, moving to Illinois and navigating the complexities of a typical American high school. Through Cady we learn about the importance of authenticity and the challenges of navigating adolescence.
Overall, James Madison High School's production of Mean Girls High School Version was a vibrant and energetic experience. The ensemble was consistently active and engaged, bringing the world of North Shore High to life with infectious energy. Powerhouse vocals from several leads anchored the production, delivering both the comedic and more poignant musical moments with impressive skill.
Cady Heron's journey is central to Mean Girls, and Naomi Mudrick delivered a strong performance, marked by consistent vocals and a well-executed transformation. She convincingly portrayed Cady's evolution from naive newcomer to a Plastic, and ultimately her return to a more authentic self, albeit with a newfound confidence.
Karen, played by Grace Rodstrom was a comedic highlight, demonstrating impeccable timing and a knack for physical comedy. Her rendition of "Sexy" was a standout song, showcasing her vocal talent with numerous impressive riffs. Damien, played by Nate Borrowman, brought an infectious energy to the stage. His expressive physicality and strong, consistent vocals, marked by a gorgeous tone, were notable. Even when not the central focus, Damien remained committed to the scene, staying active and engaged throughout.
The costume design (by Ember Burke and the JMHS Costume Team) added a vibrant layer to the production. Janis's iconic jacket, in particular, was a standout; the costume team collaborated with the actor (Gwyneth Kemeny) to imbue both the character and the garment itself with added personality. The Plastics sported multiple handmade or student-designed costumes, such as a hand-crocheted shirt for Karen and a top reading "I Heart Me" shirt for Regina, while Janis and Damien sported custom-made buttons that added a unique, personal touch to their characters' wardrobes.
The production's set design, by Juliette Kopp, Lyn Montalto and the JMHS Set Team was both dynamic and versatile. A central wall with integrated staircases provided multiple levels, while additional walls that rotated allowed for swift transitions between locations. This relatively simple set design facilitated split-second scene changes, keeping the show's pace energetic and engaging. A particularly impressive element was the rolling escalator, which was used to great effect during "Apex Predator."
From the Plastics' pink power to the Mathletes' victory, this show proved that "the limit does not exist" for James Madison High School's talent.