Theater Review
LYDIA TURCIOS
Art Director
The doors of SUNY Fredonia’s Robert W. Marvel have burst back open with passionate and campy aplomb, thanks to the efforts of the Department of Theatre and Dance in producing Andrew Lippa’s “The Wild Party,” directed by Professor Jessica Hillman-McCord.
Much like the musical’s leading characters Queenie and Burrs, the Department of Theatre and Dance met its perfect match in Broadway choreographer and SUNY Fredonia Alum Jennifer Cody, who returned to her alma mater as the choreographer for “The Wild Party.” A simple glance over her IMDb page reveals that students have received guidance from a seasoned industry professional, having provided the voice of Charlotte in Disney’s “Princess and the Frog,” played various parts on broadway such as “Rumpleteazer” in “CATS,” and — if you take a look at the original off-broadway cast recording of “The Wild Party” — the part of Mae in the original Andrew Lippa production.
With insight like that, it’s no wonder that “The Wild Party” smashed into great success as a top example of Fredonia talent and capability.
“I’m incredibly proud of this group of students and faculty who have put endless hours of work into this project,” said Hillman-McCord, after being reached for a comment through email. “We’ve faced adversity and come through with a great production we’re really proud of.”
“It is great to be back in the theatre with a live audience. I am also grateful to see how many people have come to see the show, and are supporting the theatre department.” Alyssa Ferris, the production’s charge artist and senior theatre design student said. “It’s been difficult working in theatre during COVID-19, but I’m happy to see things slowly coming back.”
While getting back into the swing of things may be slow “The Wild Party” is anything but. It is a pulse-pumping story set in the prohibition era with all the trappings that come with that time period — vaudeville humor, drugs and a colorful cast made up of the odds and ends of society. The show, reserved for mature audiences only, deals with dark and difficult subjects of abuse, addiction and sexual violence all handled with tact as well as the upmost respect and safety in regards to the actors. The heavy subject matter is bellowed by sharp turns towards comedy and wraps up with a bittersweet yet hopeful tone.
“It’s not the kind of show you could have at a more conservative college,” said Matthew Spencer, a senior theatre design student and attendee. “So I appreciate the opportunity to explore heavier productions like this.”
The cast did indeed take full advantage of the opportunity, filling the stage with brilliant chemistry and embodying characters fantastically. “The Wild Party” was an emotionally compelling mainstage comeback for the Theatre and Dance Department.