13
With an entire genre of books, plays, and musicals devoted to ‘coming of age,’ it’s common for these stories to come across as pretentious or create characters that don’t actually represent the transition from child to adult. 13 is a breath of fresh air in this crowded field and the Acrosstown Repertory Theater’s youth production truly encapsulates all the tribulations and small wins of a modern middle school experience.
The story follows Evan, a Jewish boy who is turning 13 and forced to start at a new school in Indiana following a divorce and relocation from New York. The show uses the usual schoolyard archetypes, such as the lead jock and his dumb thug best friends, the smart girl no one likes, the pretty popular cheerleaders, and the geeks, but the cast of this production breathes life into their characters and makes it feel fresh.
The emotions of the show bubble up through the musical numbers, raising what otherwise is a fairly superficial plot. This would not be possible without the vocal talents of the young cast, which rival many adult counterparts in the area, and it is apparent that this cast truly works as a team to shine with their harmonies. The show is a blend of fun and lively with just the right amount of heartbreaking to create an experience that feels authentically middle school (in a good way).
The most gut-wrenching songs come from the character of Patrice, the bullied and unpopular smart girl, played by Gracelyn Hill. She portrays Patrice as girl with hope and strength as she grows, not letting the bullies bring her down. Her slight frame belies her strong singing voice, which she uses to bring the soul of the show to the forefront.
If Patrice represents the more poignant aspects of the show, then the side character goons of Malcolm and Eddie highlight the overall comedy of the story. Max Stripling and Audrey Caton play the dumb jock duo and do not miss an opportunity to make the audience laugh, all without upstaging any of their cast mates. They treat the audience to an unexpected doo-wop number where Eddie and Malcom complain about the loss of a friend due to a girl in class. They are joined by two others from the ensemble to round out the vocals and complete the almost Motown experience. The song’s lyrics are hilarious, but the confidence and competence of everyone singing makes this one of the strongest numbers of the whole show. Stripling puts the cherry on top of this musical sundae by getting on his knees and hitting notes worthy of Frankie Valli.
As with many shows, opening weekend brings nerves and there were times when the young cast would look at each other for confirmation of what they were supposed to be doing in certain songs. There is no doubt they will overcome these minor setbacks as they get more comfortable in front of their audiences, and they should feel confident in their abilities with how strong their performances were.
While 13 is a youth production and obviously geared towards younger audiences, the show also brings adults back to their own youth and the pressures that came along with a changing body, greater expectations, and trying to figure out the person they wanted to become. It may not be perfect but the cast and crew of ARTy’s 13 have created something special that resonates with younger audiences and reminds their older audience that there is always “a little more homework to do.”
13 is playing at the Acrosstown Repertory Theatre from July 31st through August 16th and tickets can be purchased at acrosstown.org.
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