``At the Copa, Copacabana . . .''
Who knew that this catchy three-minute tune could be transformed into a $3 million musical extravaganza? Recently, University School brought the legendary song to life in their vivid, colorful performance of Barry Manilow's tour de force, Copacabana.
Originally starring Manilow himself, Copacabana began as an appealing tune that was transformed into a TV movie and then taken to the theater after receiving two Emmy Awards. Although never on Broadway, Copacabana toured the international stage in England and in Asia before circulating through the United States.
The musical takes the audience into the fantasy of Stephen, a frustrated songwriter who is enamored with his idea of a simple girl named Lola. Lola arrives in New York city from Tulsa, Ok., with dreams of becoming a ''Copa girl.'' At the Copacabana nightclub she meets her love interest Tony, who mirrors the songwriter Stephen. What ensues is a series of adventures including a kidnapping and a heroic rescue from Havana, all in song, of course.
Samantha Leibowitz starred as Lola, delivering her lines confidently and with a charming Oklahoma accent. Opposite Leibowitz was Beau Cassidy, playing the role of Tony. Cassidy lit up the stage with his wide smile and character-appropriate mannerisms. Despite small pitch problems, both Cassidy and Leibowitz delivered impressive vocal performances.
Also delivering noteworthy performances were Morgan Hammel, Lauren Rothenberg, and Jared Corak, playing Conchita, Gladys, and Rico respectively. They each delivered a witty comedic element to the show, delivering humorous accents ranging from nasal New Jersey to ringing Havana.
The production's ensemble was exceptional in large dance numbers such as Dancing Fool and Havana/Caramba. They filled the stage with vivacity and color and truly energized the production.
Costuming and orchestration were also very impressive. With clothing ranging from Chiquita banana fruit hats to flashy white-feathered headdresses, the outfits in University School's Copacabana truly brought the time period of the show to life. The Copacabana Orchestra also enhanced the production delivering musical cues promptly and with elegance.
All in all, the cast and crew of Copacabana displayed a commendable effort, overcoming slight glitches in lighting and sound with ease. By the end of the show, University School will have you dancing out of your seat to the beat of the Copa.
