By Aaron Quinones
Contributing Writer
The Saint Rose Musical Theatre Club put on an ambitious cabaret performance that was inspired by many different musicals, from “Heathers” to “Grease,” even to “Tangled,” on Sunday, Dec. 3. What could have been simply a hodge-podge of songs strung together turned into a powerful and emotional experience thanks to the expert skills of the performers.
The cabaret performance started with “I Am Alive” from the musical “Next to Normal” covered by Connor Stephens. Stephens does an amazing job using his voice and making sure his voice is projected throughout the entire performance, which I loved.
The next performance was a cover of “Hopelessly Devoted To You” from “Grease” by Cassie Ijeh. Ijeh’s angelic voice added just the right amount of flair to the already amazing song. After Cassie’s great performance, Jacqueline Rock-Perez took the stage with “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” from “Cinderella.” Rock-Perez sang this cover like she was a Disney princess herself. It was so amazing to watch and hear.
Naomi Onyx then takes the stage with her groundbreaking performance of “She Used to be Mine” from “Waitress.” While Onyx performed, you could tell this song was personally connected to her. The emotions and tears down her face while performing just made the crowd connect with her even more.
After that spectacular performance, Max Miller took the stage with “Meant to be Yours” from “Heathers.” His hardcore rock attitude brought something different to the table out of all the other different performances that night.
After major rock vibes from Miller, Mary Israel took the stage with “Run Away with Me” from “Our First Mistake.” Israel’s acting throughout her performance convinced me to try and run away with her.
Caleb Froats and Cassie Ijeh then performed a duet of “I See the Light” from the Disney movie “Tangled.” This duo’s performance was amazing and even made some of the audience members cry.
After that emotional performance, Hannah Dote covered “Secondhand White Baby Grand” from “SMASH.” Dote killed it and had the audience members’ eyes locked in on her and only her.
Allison Bellardino performed “To My Angels” from “SuperYou” and showcased her high range and beautiful voice. Last but certainly not least, Colin Ahearn and Cassie Ijeh took the stage for “City of Stars” from “La La Land.” The pair took their performance to the next level as they portrayed being in love, dancing together and spinning across the stage.
Hannah Dote, The musical theater president, announced that this was their first cabaret performance and that they will be doing another like this in the spring semester. If next semester’s is anywhere near as good as this one, it is not to be missed.
