Grab a friend and get ready to shake and “Swing!”
Belmont University's Musical Theatre department will premiere their rendition of Paul Kelly’s uplifting and jazz-filled musical "Swing!" this Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Massey Performing Arts Center.
In addition to this weekend's showings, the department’s rendition of Joe DiPietro’s "All Shook Up," an American Jukebox musical that tells the story of two lovers through Elvis Presley’s music, will be running at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts from March 28 through March 30.
Nancy Allen, the coordinator of the Musical Theatre program at Belmont University, is interested in seeing how the dancers in the department are highlighted through this production.
“I’ve always wanted to do "Swing!,” said Allen. “We have some really strong dancers… ‘Swing!’ is all about the amazing music that came from Harlem and the music is such a community builder, we just gotta do it,” said Allen.
Like "Swing!,” "All Shook Up" is a high-energy musical that requires a big group of talented individuals and, most importantly, draws an audience’s attention.
“We love to choose shows with a big cast to fill the space… a show that draws the audience is very important,” said Allen.
Both "Swing!" and "All Shook Up" are styles the program hasn’t covered and are opportunities for students to experiment with various musical theatre styles.
Sachi Nicholson, Belmont junior who plays Natalie in "All Shook Up," said she resonates with her role’s imperfect, but determined character.
“I’m not a perfect person and neither is she. She has big dreams, and I can relate to that… she’s chasing after what she wants and loves,” Nicholson said.
Nicholson’s favorite part of the production process is getting to work with her musical theatre friends, she said.
“‘All Shook Up’ is such a fun show and I feel like we're all working together very well… I am never not laughing.” said Nicholson.
Belmont senior Kathryn Crandall also said she is excited to continue working with her costars in "Swing!," since it is the first time she has gotten to dance with a live band.
“Getting to do the production with a live band is what it's about - music is the message of the show. It’s a beautiful expression of what the Lord has given us,” said Crandall.
From swing music to Elvis Presley’s melodies, both productions remind the audiences of the life-changing effects of music and the performing arts.
“The lesson of "All Shook Up" is the power of music and what it can do for your soul. Ever since I was little, this music has stuck with me - it touches my soul,” said Nicholson.
And while the two shows have separate casts and rehearsal schedules, the community formed by the department transcends this division.
“Music and dance are about togetherness and community, we’re here to share life, to tell stories,” said Crandall.
So, grab that friend and swing this Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with Belmont University’s Musical Theatre Department at the MPAC.
… and save that hip swivel for "All Shook Up" at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts.
Tickets:
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This article was written by Carla Lorretta
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