Theater Review: Pattonville Performs Sendoff For "Birdie"

By Kaylyn Bauer of Holt High School

Screams heard throughout the night of “We love you Conrad!” set the tempo for the devotion of the girls in Sweet Apple, Ohio, to their beloved rock and roll star, Conrad Birdie. Pattonville High School put on a show to make sure the audience, too, would never forget Conrad Birdie.

After being drafted into the army, Conrad is set to give his last kiss to one lucky girl, Kim MacAfee, on the Ed Sullivan show. The show follows Albert Peterson, Conrad’s manager, and his secretary, Rosie, as they deal with the numerous problems that arise from Kim’s parents, her boyfriend, Albert’s overprotective mother, and of course the rock star himself, Conrad.

Bye Bye Birdie, set in 1958, was first performed in 1960, before being adapted into a film in 1963. The original production won numerous Tony awards, and the show has become a popular choice for many high schools to perform.

Provided with a dynamic set full of multiple levels, the cast utilized the stage to the fullest extent. Rosie, played by Anna Pirrie, danced throughout the show and delivered a voice unexpected and memorable, leaving the audience wanting to hear more from this Spanish rose. The irresistible energy released from Rosie radiated throughout the cast. Albert’s mother, Mrs. Mae Peterson, played by Desiree’ Lowe, added a spark to the never ending conflict between Rosie and Albert’s relationship.

The MacAfee parents, Nate Bassman and Madison Sportsman, delivered memorable performances throughout the night. Thier number “Kids” highlighted their singing abilities and throughout the show their dynamic chemistry provided numerous laughs.

Conrad Birdie, played by Sam Decker, showcased the Elvis persona, complete with signature moves to woo the ladies, a stellar voice and enough energy to rile anyone. The ensemble, although lacking energy sometimes compared to Decker and his over the top Guitarman, played by Jordan Hall, added depth to the show and helped to glorify Decker’s persona. Erica Ream, playing Gloria Rasputin, did a terrific tap number amplifying her talents of flexibility and dance ability.

The versatile set was decorated and utilized many time period props. The stage crew sacrificed speed for quietness when moving the often prop filled set. The cast was distinguished with colorful costumes that ranged in time periods, but Decker was a picturesque Elvis wearing both a dazzling red cape and a leather jacket. Sound was spot on with cues, not missing an effect or microphone.  Overall, the Pattonville Pirate Players provided a memorable evening for the audience.

About The Cappies, from its website: The Cappies is a program through which high school theater and journalism students are trained as critics, attend shows at other schools, write reviews, and publish those reviews in local news outlets. At the end of the year, student critics vote for awards that are presented at a formal Cappies Gala.