Bye, Bye Birdie is a rocking parody of Elvis Presley. Set in 1958, the musical centers on Conrad Birdie (Jacob Loader), a hip-revolving, twist-turning pop star who, like Elvis Presley, is going off to war. Albert Peterson (Matt Dixon) and Rosie Alvarez (Aimee Hampton Workman), Conrad’s promoters, work a publicity stunt for him: before he leaves, he gets to give one last kiss to a lucky adoring fan. The selected fan is Kim Macafee (Katie Duiven), which arouses the jealousy of Hugo Peabody (Micah Hazel), a young man with whom she is now going steady.
Another love subplot exists in this musical between Albert and Rosie, his secretary. In their impressive duet, “An English Teacher”, Rosie urges Albert to become an English teacher and expresses her intense desires to marry him and to live happily ever after. Although Albert loves Rosie, he is often preoccupied with Conrad’s publicity stunt, which serves for some tension throughout the musical.
Vocals and Acting
Birdie’s first song, “Honestly Sincere”, is one of the most enjoyable scenes in the musical because of his impressive imitation of Elvis Presley, on whom his character is based. Birdie, garbed in a flashy gold jacket, mimics the Rock icon’s legendary moves and mannerisms. With each new move, a wave of fans tumbles in adoration.
When we are introduced to the lucky fan, Kim Macafee, she sings “How Lovely to be a Woman” to affirm her transition out of girlhood. This solo is no small feat for Duiven, who must sing while redressing in her bedroom. Duiven practices this difficult scene four times per day to perfect it.
Another comical character is Peterson’s mother, (Darla Wortley). She is an unkempt woman who clings to her motherhood. She is aroused easily like a bear, which her big brown coat resembles. Each time Peterson attempts to escape her den, she pulls him back with her deep intimidating Big Apple accent.
Orchestra
The orchestra beneath the stage performed superbly. The conductor, Wright McCargar, was visible from the middle front section, and the music he conducted drew attention not to itself, but to the show.
Setting
The musical was set to New York City and Sweet Apple, Ohio. Wortley captured New York City’s Big Apple accent in her pronunciation while playing Peterson’s mother. The musical could have benefited, however, from this accent in the other New York characters.
Costumes
The costume designers did a fantastic job creating sixties era costumes, from poodle skirts for the girls to crisp white shirts with ties and pleated pants for the men. Even Kim’s mother (Kathie Johnson) went about the house in a fitted dress and heels.
Parental Caution
Please note that some parts may be inappropriate for children. At one point, Rosie performs a sexy dance for a council of men in a bar.
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