Hey Big Spender! - IU Theatre's Sweet Charity

You guys! Our friends at IU Theatre are the best!

This past Thursday, members of our board had the privilege to attend the dress rehearsal of “Sweet Charity”. We were in Broadway HEAVEN as we sat and watched the level of talent present in this show. I’m not going to lie to you all, some finger snapping and toe tapping were most certainly occurring as we swayed into a world of some of Broadway’s greatest hits sung by artists of the highest caliber. While there has been a divide between the world of opera and musical theatre (a divide that has become the focus of many debates just in the past few years), it is undeniable that both of these art forms require a level of artistry and superbness that often leaves their audiences stunned, impacted, and in awe. IU Theatre’s production of “Sweet Charity” is no different.

The curtain rises on a set of color. From the lighting to the set, the creative design team has produced a curated palette that reflects the boldness and vitality of this story. Set in the 1960’s, “Sweet Charity” offers a commentary that had rarely been scene on the Broadway stage prior to it’s premiere in 1966. Much like Verdi’s “Traviata”, and Bizet’s “Carmen”, “Sweet Charity” is centered around the life of a woman (Charity) and the challenges, and dangers of her gutsy profession.

Pictured: Emily Kelly (senior) - Charity Hope Valentine Photo Credit: IU Theatre

However, (spoiler-alert headed you way) I was pleased to see that Charity was left standing when the curtain fell; a courtesy often un-offered to the operatic diva. I want to make clear that this observation is not intended to serve as a poor reflection of the charismatic presence and glow of senior, Emily Kelly (Charity). On the contrary, Kelly performed the role of Charity with such artistic precision and spunk that one could discern by observation the artistic fervor required of ANY stage diva.

Kelly’s moxie is mirrored by ensemble and principals alike, especially by the performances of Kaitlyn Mayse (Helene) and Julia Thorn (Nickie) whose portrayal of Charity’s BFFs provide a fiery addition of girl-power that is only enhanced by their own superior levels of artistry. These women, Kelly included, are what the stage has ad

mirably labeled “triple-threats”, performers who excel in the area of dance, singing, and acting. The ideal trifecta that is only further enhanced by their ability to balance comedy with sex-appeal. Brava, ladies. Brava.

Pictured: Kaitlyn Mayse (senior) - Helene and Julia Thorn (freshman) -Nickie

Photo Credit: IU Theatre

With a musical score rich with familiar Broadway tunes, an ensemble with precision and wow-factor in both song and dance (the dancing was truly exceptional), and a principal cast sure to entertain, IU Theatre’s “Sweet Charity” is a dazzling production guaranteed to delight.

The Rhythm of Life! - Cameron Mullin (senior) Photo Credit: IU Theatre

Big thanks to our new friends at IU Theatre for inviting us to this sensational production!

If you haven’t had the chance to catch this show, you are in luck! There are still many more opportunities to witness this outstanding production.

Sweet Charity

Ruth N. Halls Theatre

November 11-13, 2015 @ 7:30 p.m.

November 14 @ 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

For tickets and a full cast list visit IU Theatre