In The Heights

Long before the phenomenon of Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda's lesser-known musical In The Heights had been a solid success.  Playing over 1,200 performances on Broadway, it was nominated for fourteen Tony Awards, winning four including Best Musical and Choreography.  In The Heights explores the lives of three generations of immigrants dwelling in the bustling neighbourhood of Washington Heights over the course of three days. The Tony winning score features hip-hop, salsa, merengue and soul music.  

This production is worth twice the admission price. Old Carey Performing Arts Club, the first amateur theatre company in Victoria to be producing In The Heights, are to be congratulated on a slick and flawless production. The bona fide cast of 35 was chosen from a vast array of Latinx, Hispanic and Bipoc heritage and backgrounds. The consummate eleven piece band, under the Musical Direction of Benjamin Samuel, is tight and gives an impeccable performance.

The effective Set Design by Director Melanie Xavier depicts various shops and dwellings in Washington Heights, New York. A hair salon, bodega (grocery and coffee shop) and a car and limousine hire service are set against the backdrop of the George Washington Bridge. Dazzling Lighting Design by Peter Anesbury enhances the excitement of the dance numbers and adds warmth to the more sombre settings. Sound Design by Marcello Lo Ricco is crystal clear, allowing the audience to hear every spoken word and lyric.  The Choreography by Joel Anderson is breathtaking and allows each dancer's individuality to shine through. 

Branford Gruar (Usnavi, the bodega owner) is a standout as the narrator of the musical and a major character throughout. His opening number, 'In The Heights', accompanied by the full cast is electrifying. Ninna Aguirre’s (Nina Rosario, the typical 'good girl' returning from dropping out of Stanford University) sincere rendition of 'Breathe' was spine tingling. Maverick De Leon (Benny, Nina's love interest) had the audience grooving along with the rhythmic  'Benny's Dispatch'.  Teresa Giansiracusa (Vanessa, Usnavi's love interest works at the hair salon) sings 'It Won't Be Long Now' with both spirit and fragility. Jennifer Biggs (Abuela Claudia. the elderly matriarch of the barrio) stopped the show with her heartfelt rendition of ‘Paciencia Y Fe (Patience & Faith)’. Sharon Wills’ (Daniela, the hair salon manager and local gossip) powerhouse rendition of 'Carnaval Del Barrio' was a high point of the show and crowd pleaser. Poignant moments in the story involving Nathan Fernandez and Jade Bohni (Kevin and Camila Rosario, Nina's parents) had the audience in tears. Sean Rentero (Piragua Guy, local ice cream vendor & Mister Softee competitor) was popular with the audience as he sang his jolly ditty about ice cream, 'Piragua'. Nabs Adnan (Sonny, Usnavi's younger cousin) stole every scene with his sassiness and perfect comedic timing.   

The remaining principals and ensemble were equally as engaging and talented. I had to keep reminding myself that none of the cast are professionals. Their acting, vocal and dancing skills are of such a high calibre any of them could be on the professional circuit. Kudos to the entire cast and creative team.  

This production raises local theatre to new 'heights' and may just be the best amateur show I've seen in 45 years! 

Jonathan Cox

Photo Credit:  Ben Fon