By Laura Bailey
The Bristol Arts and Innovation Magnet School (BAIMS) drama club transported theatergoers to the Pride Lands in their performance of “The Lion King JR” this past weekend.
The moment the lights went down, elephants and giraffes began walking down the aisles of the Rockwell Theater on their way to Pride Rock.
Accompanied by a lively ensemble providing dulcet harmonies, Calliope Gallagher, who played Rafiki, beautifully belted out “The Circle of Life.”
The lovably mischievous lion cub Simba was played by Allyana Andrew, whose dynamic performance perfectly encapsulated the character. She is joined by Annalee Andrew as her friend/partner in crime, young Nala. Their chemistry shines in the showstopping musical number “I Just Can’t Wait to be King.”
The upbeat music shifts to nefarious as the scene changes to an elephant graveyard, where we meet Mufasa’s treacherous brother, Scar. Carter Vicente’s character voice and facial expressions combined for a frightening performance that truly brought the villainous role to life.
The terrific trio of actors were fierce and funny as Scar’s hyena henchmen Banzai (Joey Montgomery), Shenzi (Nelizabeth Ayala) and Ed (Aben Soucy).
The touching musical number, “They Live in You,” featured a heartfelt vocal and acting performance from Lucas Hubbell-Major who played Mufasa. The ensemble shined, figuratively and literally, as they danced and sang holding fiber optic wands to simulate starlight.
While “Lion King JR” had many dramatic and poignant moments, three characters provided some extraordinary comic relief.
Trystyn Merrill brought tremendous energy to the role of played Zazu, Mufasa’s uptight royal advisor.
Kailey Christian played know-it-all meerkat Timon, who paired perfectly with Marucs Marciano’s interpretation of the lovable warthog Pumbaa. The duo played well off of each other, displaying excellent comedic timing on their line deliveries.
Gavin Frosolone was sincere and likable in his portrayal as adult Simba, especially during his confrontation with Scar near the finale. Victoria Gladden-Hinds, who played adult Nala sang a memorable rendition of “Shadowland” with feeling and beautiful vocals.
Every member of the ensemble contributed something unique to the performance, whether it was a spectacular cartwheel or a beautifully sung harmony. The show was truly a team effort by the entire BAIMS drama club cast, crew and production team.
The inaugural drama club production, directed by Lisa Carroll and stage managed by eighth grader Mya Michaud, was captivating from the opening note to the final bows.
Laura Bailey can be reached at lbailey@bristoledition.org
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