The Bard meets The King at West Chicago Middle School
West Chicago Middle School is performing "All Shook Up," a Shakespearean-style love story set to Elvis Pesley music.
Director and drama teacher Garrett Gutowski shares his thoughts on the production:
Question: What do you get when you mix the songs of Elvis Presley with the comedy of William Shakespeare? Answer: Joe DiPietro's hilarious and high energy musical "All Shook Up."
The musical is set in a small Midwestern town in 1955. The town's strict mayor, Matilda Hyde, is challenged by the guitar playing roustabout Chad when he rolls into town to shake things up.
Upon his arrival, everyone starts falling in love and, in the style of Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night," there is even a mistaken identity. The musical ends with a triple wedding and a rollicking version of "Burnin' Love" that is sure to bring the house down.
I selected the play for its charming wit and fast-paced humor. The musical numbers are being directed by Heidi Herman and choreographed by Trianna Hatch, whose twin daughters are cast as owners of Sylvia's Honky-Tonk.
We all agree that the experience has been a great way to celebrate the positive message of music to bring people together with a happy ending for all.
<p class="factboxheadblack">If you go</p> <p class="News"><b>What:</b> "All Shook Up," staged by West Chicago Middle School</p> <p class="News"><b>When:</b> 7 p.m. May 14 and 15</p> <p class="News"><b>Where:</b> West Chicago Middle School, 238 E. Hazel St.</p> <p class="News"><b>Cost:</b> $5, available only in advance</p> <p class="News"><b>Info:</b> (630) 293-6060, ext. 284</p>