Nicole Letendre ’23

Chief Features Editor

The Department of Theatre and Dance at Holy Cross presented the musical “Company” in the Prior Performing Arts Center, Luth Concert Hall with several showtimes throughout the month of February. Through song and dance, the cast of students tells the story of a man named Robert (“Bobby”) as he witnesses the tumultuous relationships of his married friends, allowing him to reflect on his own romantic life. The performance was a lively and entertaining event, directed by Meaghan Deiter, Professor in the Department of Theatre and Dance. Set in present-day New York City, the on-stage scenery was inventive and well-constructed, with flawless scene changes that enhanced the production. In the director’s note contained within the program, Professor Deiter states, “Beyond a contemporary vibe, I wanted the scenic elements to support grand musical theatre numbers alongside intimate scenes and moments of realism juxtaposed with extensions of Bobby’s subconscious.” The entire production included students and faculty from various angles: the cast, crew, musicians, scene shop assistants, and costume shop assistants. With the new resources of the Prior Performing Arts Center—the costume and scene-design rooms—most of the settings and clothing were specially made in shop. 

The cast of student actors performed spectacularly; the production was engaging and entertaining. The audience was packed with viewers, who gave a standing ovation at the conclusion of the musical. The musical number “Getting Married Today,” performed by Blake Sheridan ’24 as “Jamie” was particularly amazing. His performance was on-point as highly theatrical and comedic, while also featuring strong vocals. The entire cast of “Company” is extremely talented and hardworking, and the production itself was well-constructed and highly engaging. Featuring intriguing light and sound effects, the audience became invested in the story and captivated by the actors. Overall, I hope you got the opportunity to attend this well-done production of “Company.” If you did, I’m sure you know just how amazing it was! If you didn’t get a chance to see the show, there are plenty more opportunities to attend one of the amazing performances arranged by the Department of Theatre and Dance, or by the Alternate College Theatre (ACT). The ACT production of “Ride the Cyclone,” directed by Blake Sheridan ’24, will be playing in the evenings of March 30-31, and April 1 at 7:30PM in the Pit (O’Kane 37). The production of “Rasa” will occur April 20-22 and 27-29 at 7:30PM in the Luth Concert Hall. Hope to see you there!

Featured image courtesy of HC Theatre and Dance Department