THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, March 20, 1996 TAG: 9603190103
SECTION: VIRGINIA BEACH BEACON PAGE: 13 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY KATIE CLARK, HIGH SCHOOL CORRESPONDENT
LENGTH: Medium: 59 lines
Cox High School's drama department recognizes that ``the play is the thing.'' They know that a routine script can undermine even talented performers, exceptional choreography and superior direction.
Cox expects to avoid that possibility by presenting ``Cabaret,'' a controversial choice, as its spring play, at 7:30 p.m. today through Friday in the school auditorium.
``Cabaret'' is not the usual high school selection because it contains issues such as Nazism, premarital sex and abortion. Cox thespians intend that the audience leave the theater not just humming the score; they want them to be thinking about the substance of the play.
The story takes place in Berlin during the 1930s when Nazism was gaining influence in Germany. Most of the action occurs in the Kit Kat Club, a cabaret with an erotic atmosphere that seduces patrons into ignoring the political reality outside the club. The play traces the love affair of an American writer and a night club performer as well as the romance of their landlady and a Jewish corner grocer.
Drama teacher Debra MacDougall said she selected ``Cabaret'' because this musical embodies her concept of what a high school play should be. ``A play should emphasize acting ability and have a story to tell,'' she said.
When she suggested ``Cabaret'' for the spring play, some parents objected. ``They were against it because they had rented the movie and it had scared them. The movie was certainly not a tame show, but the play is not like that,'' she said.
Principal Perry Pope supported the choice. ``Elements in the play could be controversial if not presented in an appropriate way. The high school theater is a learning experience and the play has been modified to fit the audience. Before the decision was made, I went to the PTA executive board and told them that if they had any considerations or concerns to speak to Mrs. MacDougall and Mrs. Van Gent,'' she said.
While the movie's content alarmed some parents, it encouraged some students. ``The first song I ever learned was `Cabaret.' Liza Minnelli did such a wonderful job in the movie. I could picture all of us doing the play,'' said Natalie Levy, a Cox senior in the show.
Levy and MacDougall persuaded the others to accept their selection.
``I suggested that they read the play and after they had read it everything settled down. I am working for a Mardi gras flavor, not a decadent one,'' said MacDougall.
The costumes were designed by a former student and donated by Commonwealth Musical Theater and other students. Jean Widlicka, a former Radio City Music Hall Rockette, did the choreography. The school orchestra, directed by Wendy Van Gent, will perform the music. Student directors are Meghan Cryan and Kristie Lewis. Lead characters include Mike Brown as the emcee; Derek Futrell as Cliff Bradshaw; Erica Parrish as Sally Bowles; and Kelly Tucker as Fraulein Schneider. MEMO: Katie Clark is a student at Cox High School. by CNB