First Musical
by: Laura Deig and Sam Lenn
Lucky Duck, Sig's first musical of the year, will be performed February 29th and March 1st in the Crystal Room of the Executive Inn. The show will be a dinner theatre with dinner at 6:00 and the show starting around 7:15. The cast is made up of 29 students, which will all be running around like barnyard animals for this energetic comedy. The plot is loosely based on The Ugly Duckling with a contemporary spin; however, the show takes it a step further by following what happens to the duckling after she becomes a swan. Serena, the "ugly duckling," wants to make it big as a superstar in New Duck City, and she faces everything from high-fashion runways to possible murder charges on her journey. The music has an R&B/Pop feel thanks to composer Henry Krieger, the same composer of shows such as Dreamgirls and Side Show.
When asked why he chose this particular show, Terry Becker said, "It premiered in St. Louis while Cheryl [Sanders] was at Webster, so we have a connection to it. We needed an ensemble piece with lots of parts and character building. We're different at Sig-we do shows that haven't been done a lot before."
Laura Deig is Serena, the ugly duckling of the show, and Sam Lenn is the Wolf, the lead male. However, the supporting roles and chorus parts are what complete the show. Erin Cheaney plays Gooseatella, the head of a modeling agency based on Donatella Versace (with a kinder heart).
"The show is challenging because we have to act like animals, but at the same time we have to identify with people and convey human emotions," says Cheaney. "Despite the challenges, it's exciting and like nothing we've ever done before. It's a good challenge."
Sophomore Morgan Lefler plays a free-range chicken in the show. "My favorite part is probably the barnyard scenes because everyone has their own personality. It's crazy and fun," says Lefler.
Freshman friends Mallory Foster and Christina Krawec are enjoying their first Sig production so far. "The cast is amazing and I learn something new every time we rehearse!" says Foster. "The talent is amazing and everyone works together so well. I can honestly say that I am surprised at how nice the upperclassmen are too!" adds Krawec. Both agree that the show and the rehearsals have totally exceeded their expectations.
The show's comedy includes everything from animal puns, allusions to children's tales, and pop-culture references. Although the show is based on a children's book, Lucky Duck is more of an adult show. Wolf and his coyotes own a club called "Poultry in Motion," and Prince Drake, played by Matt Moore, is known for his reputation with the chicks.
"Playing Drake is a little challenging for me, as I've never played a character that is so self-involved," says Moore. "It's fun though! That's why I like theater; the most fun and challenging part of this role is stepping outside of myself and becoming a different person."
When senior Craig Payton was asked about the provocative nature of his part, Armand Dillo, Payton said, "I don't think it's too much. If I do it right and I'm over the top, it will be ok. I hope the directors don't cut any of the lines-they're hilarious!" However, the adult content is merely innuendos and the occasional double entendre, so most of the show should still be child-friendly.
Between the over-the-top characters, energetic musical numbers, and witty dialogue, the show has something for everyone. Come see the show February 29th and March 1st!