Loveland High School's BYE BYE BIRDIE

Conrad Birdie, played by Liam McCracken, arrives in Sweet Apple, Ohio causing everyone in town to swoon in Loveland High School’s production of Bye Bye Birdie

Review by Alexandra Hess, Campbell County High School Critic Team

Ring! Ring! Ring! When a beloved national heartthrob is drafted into the American armed forces, the phones ring off the walls with panic and gossip. From rockin' tunes to flashin' lights, Loveland High School's production of Bye Bye Birdie! commanded the stage with magnetic energy and side-splitting humor.

Taking inspiration from the "King of Rock and Roll" himself, Charles Strouse's Bye Bye Birdie turns Elvis Presley's 1958 peacetime draft into the American military into a high-spirited musical comedy. Originally premiering a mere month after Presley's return home, the show follows revered media sensation, Conrad Birdie, as he travels to Sweet Apple, Ohio, to give a lucky fan "One Last Kiss" before leaving to serve his country.

The dedication and determination of the cast and crew at Loveland became apparent through their receptive collaboration and efficient communication. While working with a notably large ensemble, they skillfully executed numerous theatrical elements from show-stopping dance numbers to seamless scene changes. The combination of structured transitions and a clever use of the fourth wall helped to create a production that was as engaging as it was entertaining.

A complex, yet heartwarming showbiz couple Albert Peterson and Rosie Alvarez, played by Trey Rauen and Molly Hall, delivered captivating performances with their natural on-stage chemistry and distinct individual talent. Rauen's charming vocalization and dapper dance dexterity contributed to a highly energetic performance that beautifully complemented the highly-stylized spirit of the show. This, together with Hall's stunning vocal control and unwavering confidence, provided their love story with emotionally charged tension and lighthearted concluding interactions. Furthermore, the expansive acting range and intricate choices displayed by Hall added contrasting depth to their characters' relationship, expertly reflecting the problematic social circumstances within the 1950s setting.

President of the Conrad Birdie Fan Club, Kim MacAfee, played by Ava Pursley, represents the rock 'n' roll crazed teenagers of the mid-20th century. Pursley's soaring soprano tonality and vibrant personality brought enthusiasm and liveliness to her performance. She realistically depicts the elaborate inner thoughts and development of her young character through her unwavering vigor and passionate commitment to every line. Working alongside Pursley, Liam McCracken, who played Conrad Birdie, fully embraced the Elvis persona through his confident demeanor and compelling stage presence. McCracken's dedication to his character's highly satirical physicalization and smooth vocals highlighted his natural comedic abilities while further emphasizing the intended energetically humorous atmosphere of the production. His conviction and courage created a uniquely extraordinary performance that stole the show.

In addition to a talented cast, the students at Loveland demonstrated their incredible aptitude for technical versatility through well-developed concepts and efficient collaboration. Led by Isaac Endress, the lighting team skillfully utilized heavily saturated hues and immersive projections that extended beyond the confines of the proscenium, ultimately enhancing the satirical nature of the show. Their utterly stunning creative design created a refreshing layer of intricate visual appeal that fully immersed the audience into the fast-paced, colorful world of the 1950s. The pit orchestra, including Dean Hamilton, Matthew Ziegler, Annika Larsen, and other student instrumentalists, masterfully produced resounding dramatic moments and smooth transitions with meticulous timing and captivating dynamic control. The musicians, alongside the actors and other crews, worked in remarkable unison to accurately coordinate numerous cues and specific technical effects that allowed the production to seamlessly transition between songs and effortlessly deliver the intended pacing and themes of the production.

Overall, the skilled cast and crew at Loveland High School created an astonishingly polished production that was radiantly captivating and simply phenomenal.

The Sweet Apple, Ohio Conrad Birdie Fan Club led by Ava Pursley as Kim MacAfee and Camdyn Drohan as Ursula Merkle in Loveland High School’s production of Bye Bye Birdie

Review by Julianna Duker, Mercy McAuley High School Critic Team

During the chaos of chasing a superstar's kiss, Loveland High School's production of Bye Bye Birdie drew audiences in with a story of excitement, turmoil, and teen rebellion.

Traveling back to the 1950s, Bye Bye Birdie kicks off following Albert and Rosie, the agent and secretary for Conrad Birdie, a famous singer. As they traverse the uncertainties of their relationship, they must also figure out how to stop their music company from going bankrupt. Before going to war, Conrad must sing one final song to his adoring fans on live television with an extra surprise that leaves the viewers dumbstruck.

The cast and crew of Loveland High School created an immersive atmosphere that fully expressed the chaotic, bright, and lively time period of the 1950s. From the onstage rock and roll performers to the backstage superstar crew, they all created a cohesive and fluid performance that rocked the socks off the entire audience.

The powerhouse behind the show, Molly Hall brought the fierce and independent personality of Rosie Alvarez to center stage. Her fast retorts and strong stage presence, combined with her well-controlled pitch and impressive range, fully brought Rosie to life right in front of the audience's eyes. Her coworker and lover, Trey Rauen as Albert Peterson, exemplified Peterson's encroaching defiance against his mother, creating a build-up of emotions that finally burst at the end of the show. His comedic expressions and strong emotions were set out for all to see in "Put on a Happy Face," as he dominated the stage with his impressive vocals.

The dutiful president of the Conrad Birdie fan club, Ava Pursley as Kim MacAfee, gave the audience chills with her confident and rebellious performance, hitting the high notes in "How Lovely to Be a Woman" with ease. Along with this, the dynamic between Kim and Mrs. MacAfee accurately displayed the unfair stereotypes and treatments that many women experienced during that time. The "bad guy" in Kim's point of view, Noah Ferris as Mr. Harry MacAfee, commanded his household, using a booming voice and stubborn personality to showcase the egotistical mindset of many men in the 1950s. His overprotectiveness and need to control everything were further exemplified through his emphatic duet in "Kids".

Holding down the fort during the onslaught of crazy teen emotions, the crew completed the picture of this flamboyant production. The Loveland High School Orchestra brought originality and ingenuity to this performance, using clean cut-offs and controlled melodies to calm the chaos of this show. Their expert trills and glissandos mixed with precise notes created a dedicated and hard-working atmosphere. Adding an even more intricate layer to this performance, the hair and makeup crew, led by Leah Naylor, worked hard to add detailed facial features from wrinkles to facial hair and more, accurately depicting the characters. They even went as far as to add fake tears and the handprint of a slap on Conrad's face, making each scene feel even more realistic.

From beginning to end, Loveland High School's production of Bye Bye Birdie brought the audience on a roller coaster of emotions, showcasing the chaotic life of a teenager, wrapping it all up with a kiss goodnight.

Trey Raun as Albert Peterson and Molly Hall as Rosie Alvarez in Loveland High School’s production of Bye Bye Birdie

Review by Anna Parsons, Mercy McAuley High School Critic Team

As phones rang and gossip spread around Sweet Apple, Ohio, Loveland High School's production of Bye Bye Birdie swept audiences off their feet with a story of teenage obsession, love, and fame.

Written by Charles Strouse and Michael Stewart, Bye Bye Birdie follows Albert Peterson, who is the manager of the teenage superstar Conrad Birdie. When Conrad Birdie is drafted into the Korean War, Albert pulls off one last publicity stunt: Conrad Birdie is going to give his last kiss to a randomly selected fan. When Kim MacAfee is chosen for this kiss, the whole town of Sweet Apple goes into a frenzy. This satirical and hilarious musical shows the trials of teenage stardom and just how crazy superfans can become.

Loveland High School stepped up to the mic and took on the challenge of this show. Satire is no easy feat, but the cast and crew accomplished this effortlessly, putting on an electrifying performance.

Albert Peterson, the anxious momma's boy manager of Conrad, was brought to the stage by Trey Rauen. He exemplified great emotional range from encouraging in "Put on a Happy Face" to anxious in "One Last Kiss." Rauen was the definition of a white-collar-working 1950s man. The role of Albert Peterson's lover was Rosie Alvarez, performed by Molly Hall. Hall demonstrated impressive vocal range in songs like "What Did I Ever See in Him" and "Spanish Rose." Her characterization of Rosie showed the conflict of a woman wanting to be independent while also wanting to find love.

Conrad Birdie was played by the excellent Liam McCracken, who brought to life this Elvis-like character. McCracken studied Elvis's dance moves from real-life performances and emulated the King of Rock and Roll in songs like "Honestly Sincere" and "One Last Kiss." The role of one of Conrad's superfans, Kim MacAfee, was depicted by Ava Pursley. Pursley embodied a teenage superfan with every scream and sigh. Her wonderful vocals in "One Boy" were deserving of a chef's kiss.

Loveland High School's Orchestra executed a wide range of musicality, shown through performing complex rhythms and melodies. They maintained a great balance with the cast, ensuring that everyone could be heard. Also to be mentioned, the stage management and crew were done by Cammie Hooper, Em Laufersweiler, and Abigail Boyle. This crew accomplished clean and quiet transitions that made the scenes flow right into each other, changing the stage from an office to a railroad station to a home.

It's certainly not just a rumor that Loveland High School's production of Bye Bye Birdie was spectacular. With laughter, music, and mayhem, the show was sealed with one last kiss.

Ava Pursley as Kim MacAfee and Jackson Cocco as Hugo Peabody celebrating being pinned in Loveland High School’s production of Bye Bye Birdie

Excerpts From Other Top Reviews

"Birdie's biggest fangirl, Ursula Merkle, was played by Camdyn Drohan. Using dramatic expressions and high-pitched squeals, Camdyn's stellar depiction of her character left the audience in constant laughter."

-Ella Adams, Mercy McAuley High School Critic Team

"This production wouldn't be half as entertaining without Tabitha Johnson as Mrs. Mae Peterson. While she didn't have as much stage time, nor did she sing many of the songs, she commanded the stage every time she appeared, making a lasting impression on the audience and kept them laughing up to the very end. And Haven Kalb's portrayal of Mrs. Doris MacAfee was a true highlight. She was particularly memorable in 'Kids' and its reprise, and was fantastic at staying in character and miming dialogue."

-Maxx Stegemoller, West Clermont High School Critic Team

"A character in its own right, the lighting designed by Isaac Endress and crew filled out the world of Bye Bye Birdie. With impeccable color choices and programmed effects, the bold choices made by the lighting team succeeded in playing up the stylized universe of the production and amplified the overall energy and feeling of the show. Another highlight within the technical elements, the hair and makeup designed by Leah Naylor and crew, committed to the 1950s with hair that looked straight out of the original production. Additionally, the impressive use of aging makeup cemented the difference between the cautious parents of Sweet Apple and the teens just trying to have fun."

-Abbie Kershner, Walnut Hills High School Critic Team

"Notably, Molly Hall exemplified shocking focus through her array of character moments. Despite being forced to deal with outdated comments towards Rosie, Hall stayed in character. Hall also wowed with her wide range of vocal abilities throughout a variety of musical performances. Overall, Hall brought forth a complicated character in a clear manner."

-Betty Good, Mariemont High School Critic Team

"Looking at the show through a technical lens, the lighting crew led by Isaac Endress did a spectacular job of matching the lights with every song and scene, with the lights being in sync in most numbers. Also, the sound crew headed by Liam Dobson did an amazing job adjusting mic levels when it came to the variety of scenes, such as soft ones or the louder and more outstanding ones."

-Naomi Madaris, Walnut Hills High School Critic Team

"The supporting cast did exactly as their title presumed and allowed the leads to radiate while still pushing the plot along. Liam McCracken's rendition of Conrad Birdie was the perfect mix of blunt and raunchy, which allowed him to be seen as the self-absorbed superstar he is. Each one of McCracken's movements not only captured the attention of the actors on stage but also every member of the audience."

-Cecilia Rasmussen, Mariemont High School Critic Team

"This show was tastefully done, and with the beautiful voices of the actors, the period-accurate work of the crew, and many more elements that fell wonderfully into place, Loveland High School did a fine job with this musical."

-Margaret Evenson, Mercy McAuley High School Critic Team