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> Jonny without an “H” tries to return to Enrico Fermi High after plunging to his death. Now, as a zombie, the principle will not allow him to continue his education and threatens to cancel the senior prom if he is seen on campus. Costa Mesa High’s production of Zombie Prom portrays the idea that true love survives even after death.
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> Lucy Rybarczyk’s (Miss Delilah Strict) demanded the stage every time she spoke, sang, and walked. Her screams aimed at the high school students sounded genuine without sounding too loud. Rybarczyk also flawlessly transitioned between “in love” and Strict. Her relationship with Eddie Flagrante (Winter Salins) was apparent as romantic as they played off of each other perfectly. Their past is illuminated during the entertaining number “Expose.”
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> Summersky Rudas, Toffee, played the maudlin heartbroken girlfriend effortlessly. Her over- the- top scrunched up face and constant pulling of tissues entertained as well as portrayed her depression. Rudas’ words were clearly enunciated and no words were lost during the singing. Clearly talented, Rudas belted out the notes but also softly enchanted her love interest during “Voice in the Ocean.”
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> Jonny Warner (Kory Bennion) smoothly attracts Toffee when he enters Enrico Fermi High. Warner brought Elvis-like movements to all the dances he was a part of and wooed the back up dancers when he sang “How Can I Say Goodbye.” Although there was not a big change from human to zombie, Bennion’s voice and acting expressed a deep love for Toffee.
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> The ensemble as a whole had high energy in the last few songs, but there were some standout performances throughout. Jake (Noah JeyaRejah) produced laughs as well as stuck to his character with his “butt dance” and wandering hands during the senior prom. Nerdy Ginger (Allie Hatch) brought some of her character to every movement and dance. Even when she was in the back or the spotlight was on someone else, she managed to stand out with her awkward movements. Another maudlin character that never failed to produce laughs was Cookie (Devan Davis). Davis never failed to carry her baton and even when she was in the background, she could be seen kissing it or passionately stroking it. Her dedication was apparent when she broke down in tears on the banister when Strict took her baton away.
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> This production captured the story of “two teenagers in love” and entertained with the over- the- top acting and comedic characters.
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> by Jimena Galvan of Anaheim
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> CMHS Theater Entertains with Undead Comedy
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> Costa Mesa High School’s production of “Zombie Prom” offered a hilarious take on teenage love and nuclear mutants. This energetic performance kept the audience in a thorough state of enjoyment.
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> “Zombie Prom” takes place amongst a 1950’s high school located next to a nuclear plant. Just as sweethearts Toffee and Jonny decide to go to the highly anticipated prom together, Jonny ends up involving himself in a freak atomic accident that causes him to die and return to life as a nuclear zombie.
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> The eclectic group of comedic characters was brilliantly portrayed by the cast. In particular, Kory Bennion was successful in capturing the demeanor of his bad-boy character, Jonny Warner. Also, Summersky Rudas excelled as the female romantic interest, Toffee, through her radiating expressiveness. Winter Salins’s portrayal of Eddie Flagrante, the sleazy reporter who covers the zombie story, was absolutely hilarious due to his level of energy and the inflections in his voice as he delivered his lines. Lucy Rybarczyk’s portrayal of Miss Delilah Strict was also hilarious because of the way she used facial expressions and influenced her voice while on stage.
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> Also notable were Candy, Coco, Ginger, and Cookie (played by Alyssa Hatton, Brandi Birdsong, Allie Hatch, and Devon Davison, respectively) because of the way each character had their own consistent quirks that defined them and made them recognizable throughout the show. The same thing can be said about Joey, Josh, Jake, and Jeremy (played by Zach Keane, Adrian Martin, Noah JeyaRejah, and Randy Flores, respectively). The way the actors were able to emerge themselves from the background and play their characters to the fullest added immensely to the entertainment value of the show.
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> The make-up and hair design, by Ciara Rudas and Amanda Moore, suited all the characters and was appropriate to the time period. The creation of zombified Jonny Warner was quite impressive, with the dark green tones covering his face.
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> “Zombie Prom” at Costa Mesa High School was a perfectly fun zombie comedy full of hilarious performances.
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> by Jeff Dyess of Corona del Mar
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> Reanimated and Ready to Dance at Costa Mesa
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> When Jonny Warner (Kory Bennion) commits suicide by jumping into a nuclear reactor because his girlfriend Toffee (Summersky Rudas) broke up with him, the students at Enrico Fermi High School don’t think much of it. But when Toffee’s voice and tears reanimate his rotting corpse, bringing him back as a dancing rock n roll zombie, he sparks a controversy that threatens to keep him and Toffee apart, a controversy that involves the high school students, the press, and the infamous Miss Delilah Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk), a screaming demon in a principal’s body.
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> Kory Bennion does a magnificent job in his portrayal of Jonny. His love for Toffee is genuine as seen by the small inflections in his voice and gentleness when he talks to her that differ drastically from his bad boy attitude. Also he chooses to portray his zombie not as a shambling corpse but as a human being with a rotting appearance making him easy to relate to and showing that he has not changed since his suicide. His strong tenor voice and Elvis dance moves also add to his performance by enhancing the show’s ‘50s rock n roll feel and his own character’s edginess.
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> Winter Salins who plays the news reporter Eddie is also very impressive. He brings a dirty jazzy personality to his character perfect for any Expose magazine editor. The love affair scene between him and Miss Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk) is hilarious in that he is able to bring out her character’s lustier side with his character’s personality. She is always a pleasure to watch as she screams at the students in the high school or takes a cigarette while telling her life’s story not unlike a soap opera.
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> Although lacking in overall volume, the ensemble functions very cohesively, not only as a vocal unit but as actors too. Many of the songs are filled with magnificent harmonies and every member of the cast has a distinct character that makes every person interesting to watch. For example, in the scene where Miss Strict tells the students that baton twirling has been cancelled, Cookie played by Devon Davison breaks down in tears clutching frantically at her baton amplifying the comedic nature of the scene.
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> Costa Mesa’s rendition of Zombie prom is a fun musical with a talented cast that will leave you dying for more!
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> by Matt Funsten of Corona del Mar
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> In lieu of society’s recent obsession with abnormal and mutant creatures, Costa Mesa High School gave viewers a unique view of the undead world, with Zombie Prom. When faced with such a ridiculously insane show, sometimes it may be hard to maintain their character, but Costa Mesa really nailed it. No matter who you looked at, they were all in true character. Kory Bennion, who took on the role of Jonny “no-H” Warner, the troubled zombie teen who has nowhere to go, danced and sung his way all over the stage. His continuous effort and soulful singing made him a true dedicated performer. Summersky Rudas, who played the hopeless heroine, Toffee, gave an accurate portrayal of a troubled teen trying to figure out true love. Her vocal performances were phenomenal, and no matter where on the stage she had to run to.
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> A character I thoroughly enjoyed through the entire show was Miss Strict, played by Lucy Rybarcyzk. Her character brought comic relief, or should I say stress, because of her quick entrances that involved yelling at children and being the epitome of a villainess. Brandi Birdsong, who took on the role of Coco, was a stand-out for me as well, displaying her soulful voice and sassy attitude throughout the entire show.
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> The Ensemble was to die for, always staying in character no matter what the scene was. They depicted the scene of a high school very well, and reacted perfectly to every emotion on stage. I do wish I could have heard their vocals a little more, because their pitch was spot-on, but besides that I believe they deserve a hats-off.
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> In the end, I feel very lucky to have seen this show. It was a great musical that had talented actors with amazing chemistry. These actors should be proud of their accomplishments, and know that their show is a show to be remembered. Long live Zombie Prom!
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> by Megan Lambert of Corona del Mar
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> Costa Mesa makes a killing on Zombie Prom
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> Every high school student faces his share of problems. A pimple on picture day. That hot girl in math rejects you. But very few students face the same problems that Jonny (without an “h”) Warner does. His girlfriend broke up with him! Oh yeah, and he’s a zombie.
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> Costa Mesa’s production Zombie Prom is a gem. Every actor has a great time on stage, and their passion for performance really heightens the audience’s enjoyment of the musical. Especially notable actors are (other than the leads, discussed later) Devon Davison, playing Cookie, and Allie Hatch, playing Ginger. Both of these girls remained in character the entire time they were on stage, and those characters were well developed and hilarious (at one point, Davison actually kisses her baton). These two are just two representative of an ensemble that, although at times hard to hear, worked as a cohesive unit and performed respectably on stage.
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> The leads are where this production really shines. Summersky Rudas (as Toffee) and Kory Bennion (as Jonny Warner) are an amazing duo, dancing across the stage, effortlessly remaining in character and drawing the audience into their woes and worries. Bennion deserves specific mention—his voice and footwork is outstanding. He emulates Elvis and evokes MJ with amazing skill, and every time he opens his mouth or moves to a beat every girl in the audience utters an audible sigh.
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> Just as impressive as the leads are the supporting roles. Miss Delilah Strict (played by Lucy Rybarczyk) and Eddie Flagrante (Winter Salins) are an incredible duo. Rybarczyk dominates the stage any and every time she’s on (even if the leads are on stage), which suits her domineering-principle character. Strict’s risqué side, brought out by Flagrante, is just as believable; the moments in which Rybarczyk suddenly switches characters are among the most enjoyable and laugh-out-loud of the production. Salins plays the sleezeball Flagrante well, almost slithering about the stage, and eyeing up every woman he sees. Rybarczyk and Salins’ number Expose is funny, sexy, surprising, and vocally and choreographically stunning.
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> Costa Mesa’s Zombie Prom is a production that will raise dead and (a more difficult task) the eyebrows of even the most critical audience members.
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> by Rich Posert of Corona del Mar
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> Costa Mesa becoming Zombie-friendly
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> Back to the fifties; poodle skirts, geeky glasses, cliche lovers, and ZOMBIES?!?!?! Costa Mesa High School brought all of these back to life this past week through their school musical, Zombie Prom.
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> Every actor embraced the cheesy, melodramatic character and made the performance nothing but entertaining the whole night. The story starts opens with "Enrico Fermi High", introducing the students of the school and the psycho, strict principal, whose name happens to be Miss Strict. Soon after Jonny, without the H, transfers to the school and falls in love with the innocent Toffee. Toffee breaks up with him, by parents orders, and he kills himself by jumping into the nuclear power plant. But it doesn't stop there; Jonny comes back, zombiefied!
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> Jonny (Kory Bennion), was the total stud of the play. With his smooth dance moves, mixed between Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson, and his powerful voice, the audience was wooed by him, zombie or not.
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> Toffee (Summersky Rudas)had a gorgeous singing voice and her strongest point was her non-verbal comedic timing. For instance, after Jonny died, the ensemble sang a song "Good as it Gets" and Toffee stood center stage with a box of tissues, crying the whole time. She also worked very well off of her girlfriends. These six girls really carried the show and were by far the strongest part of the ensemble. The two that stood out to me were the most were Ginger (Allie Hatch) and Cookie (Devon Davison).
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> The strongest pair in the whole show, although together much less than everyone else, was Miss Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk) and Eddie Flagrante (Winter Salins). In their duet, "Expose", they played off of eachother with such intense emotions, salsa dancing, and talking with their mouths only but an inch away from the others'.
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> Not only did Costa Mesa High School bring the fifties (and Zombies) back to life, but they also brought the fun and carefree feelings of love to the audience's hearts.
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> by Noelle Carney of Fountain Valley
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> Costa Mesa’s Zombie Prom is atomic
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> The night of prom is always memorable, with streamers, balloons, and in Costa Mesa High School’s case… zombies! Costa Mesa put on an atomic rendition of Zombie Prom, paying tribute to the nuclear era and Rock-n-Roll.
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> First performed Off-Broadway, Zombie Prom was written by John Dempsey and Dana P. Rowe. Set in the 1950’s, at Enrico Fermi High, everyone is abuzz with plans for prom. Toffee, a bubbly “good-girl” (Summersky Rudas) falls for the rebellious Jonny-without-an-“h” Warner (Kory Bennion). By an atomic twist of fate, Jonny becomes a nuclear zombie. Magazine owner Eddie Flagrante (Winter Salins) covers the story as this zombie attempts to be remitted to high school, much to the dismay of Principal Delilah Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk).
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> Costa Mesa’s cast takes this larger-than-life story to the extreme, with a visual appearance that pays homage to Lichtenstein pop art. Every member of the cast takes on a distinctly unique character, yet commendably acts as one cohesive unit.
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> Summersky Rudas never breaks her overly dramatic character, using a high pitched, nasal voice to add to Toffee’s youth and innocence. As her character deals with each milestone of the plot, Rudas reacts wholeheartedly, whether it calls for sniffling into tissues or swooning for the undead. Kory Bennion’s tough-guy personality fits perfectly, and his clear tenor vocals are some of the best in the show. As he transforms into a zombie, his drive to succeed is the only thing that changes about his character, showing that zombies and humans are not so different after all.
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> Lucy Rybarczyk hilariously executes Ms. Strict, intensely spitting diction into each word of her lines and commanding the stage as she commands her students. She effortlessly switches from strict to sultry, as soon as Winter Salins arrives. Salins, jazzy in voice and in character, creates a physical portrayal of the sleazy magazine world as he slinks around the stage, pulling something new out of every character he interacts with.
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> The numerous ensemble standouts include the comically uptight Ginger (Allie Hatch), and nail-biting Candy (Alyssa Hatton) who takes her character far enough to bite off all her fake nails at prom. Sassy Coco (Brandi Birdsong) is entertaining in her belty, gospel song and on the dance floor with Adrian Martin, as the amusing hotshot, Jake. Each ensemble member is specific and distinguished, creating an entertaining show that anyone can relate to.
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> Every character’s hair, done by Ciara Rudas and Amanda Moore, fits the time period perfectly, and adds to their individuality. The zombie make-up (Rudas and Moore) fades as the show continues to reveal how Jonny becomes more and more human.
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> There “Ain’t No Goin’ Back” on Costa Mesa’s Zombie Prom, an admirable production, “Case Closed.”
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> by Katy Hall of Fullerton
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> Poodle Skirts and Zombies invade Costa Mesa
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> Costa Mesa High School’s Zombie Prom on Thursday, February 17, 2011, shows Enrico Fermi High School’s doors opening to the incoming senior class. Little did the seniors know that one of their fellow classmates would become a zombie.
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> The actors all have well developed characters and they stay in character the entire show. Toffee (Summersky Rudas) leads the show with her crisp enunciation and bold facial expressions. When at times the ensemble lacks energy, Rudas’s stage presence and light bring the audience back in. The zombie, Jonny without and ‘h’ (Kory Bennion) carries the cast vocally. His edgy voice works perfectly for his role as the “bad boy”. Overall, the cast lacks spot on vocals, but Bennion always sounded great. Additionally, his Elvis inspired dance moves and general body language add to his character’s overall persona, and make the show better.
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> The dynamic duo, Miss Strict and Eddie Flagrante (Lucy Rybarczyk and Winter Salins) bring smiles and laughs to the audience consistently throughout the show. Salins brings out a side of Rybarczyk’s uptight character that is completely different, fun, and very memorable. Their song titled “Expose” filled with sensual dancing and intriguing lyrics is a crowd pleaser.
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> At times, the ensemble lacked in volume, energy, and enunciation, but they worked together as a cohesive unit while bringing individuality to each separate character. On the whole, Zombie Prom was a night to remember!
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> by Collette Astle of Laguna Hills
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> Zombie Prom Enthralls Audiences at Costa Mesa High School
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> Scrutiny from parents, unsure friends, keeping grades up, all problems most teenage girls face in keeping a boyfriend, and as if that weren’t enough, oh yeah...he’s a ZOMBIE! Costa Mesa High School takes us through this outrageous scenario in Zombie Prom.
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> Surprisingly, Zombie Prom was originally a comic strip and later adapted into an award winning film and Off-Broadway musical. The show takes the pettiness of high school gossip and teenage problems, and amplifies it in a corny but highly effective story of Toffee and her love for Jonny. After Toffee is forced to break it off, the lovesick Jonny commits suicide, but days later returns, claiming Toffees love for him has brought him back…as an atomic green zombie. This truly is a case of, can love conquer all?
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> In this show, yes, it certainly can! Toffee (Summersky Rudas) and Jonny’s (Kory Bennion) connection was amazingly achieved as they complimented each other wonderfully. Summersky’s exuberantly exaggerated facial expressions showed her every thought without her having to say a word. Though Kory’s change from human to zombie could have been more noticeably physicalized, his burning love for Toffee was overwhelming with sincerity. Also, his internalization of the character was incredible, as his zombie character was not too clichéd but a very kind and loving corpse.
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> In the hysterical number “Expose,” Miss Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk) and Eddie (Winter Salins) play off each other beautifully. From a slinky, hunched over walk to a twang in his voice, Winters’ characterization was so thorough that every inch of his body exuded his jazzy, shady personality. Lucy’s stage presence was magnificent and her character perfectly portrayed that up-tight administrator at every high school. In “Expose” Lucy exposed her shady past life, giving her character a whole other fantastic level of depth.
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> The ensemble worked impeccably as a cohesive unit; bringing energy, laughs, and fun to the stage. Ginger (Allie Hatch) was a clear stand-out, as her character was overwhelming with vivacity and uniqueness. Even in synchronized dances, Allie took the moves and added her character wholeheartedly into it.
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> The hairstyling and makeup of the show was done perfectly, as the hair for every character was a little bit different and went through minute changes as the show progressed.
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> Overall, this larger than life show provided many laughs and an uplifting spirit for everyone in the audience.
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> by Gianna McLaughlin of Laguna Hills
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> Costa Mesa Resuscitates Elvis Among Others
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> Neon blue, green and pink lights emanate throughout the halls of Costa Mesa’s Enrico Fermi High School. Standing out among them, is the lead of Zombie Prom, Jonny “No H” Warner.
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> The rebellious and forlorn Jonny is thoroughly rejected by the conforming citizens of Enrico Fermi High School. In the introduction, Toffee, Jonny’s sweetheart, is coerced by her parents into breaking up with him, inspiring the orphaned and despondent adolescent to plunge himself into a nuclear power plant. As the title foreshadows, though, Jonny arises from his fleeting fate, becoming a bona fide, teenage zombie.
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> Outrageous humor, convincing performances by many, and the groovy tunes and moves of “The King,” among other 50’s idols, are the rudiments of this electrifying production. Moreover, the affinity between the slick and sleazy Eddie Flagrante and his old flame, the maniacal and miserable Miss Delilah Strict, is commendable, and appreciably heightens the rock musical.
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> Delivering a performance worthy of resurrecting the dead, the wayward Jonny (Kory Bennion) passionately portrays his smug persona, with rocking dance moves, a melodic voice, and unsurpassed characterization. Sporting a bold leather jacket, devoid of an “H”, and vivid green makeup on his wretched countenance and hands, Jonny steals the show. Accentuated by her stellar projection, impeccable comedic timing, and her array of magnificent facial expressions, Toffee (Summersky Rudas) substantially augments Jonny’s performance.
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> The pompous and pretentious trash tabloid writer, Eddie Flagrante (Winter Salins), successfully depicts his nerdy depths and his smooth and jazzy exterior. His sophisticated suit and staggering capacity to make those around him appear as superb as himself, amplifies his solid night. Principal of Enrico Fermi High School, Eddie’s former lover, and the mother of Jonny, are titles clasped by the austere and absurd authoritarian figure, Miss Delilah Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk). Garnering innumerable laughs, Rybarczyk incorporates a diversity of hand movements and facial expressions to corroborate her exceptional performance.
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> The ensemble sporadically lacks in projection and enunciation, although most members finish with a respectable performance. Working as a cohesive unit, the ensemble is sharp, flaunting fantastic dancing, and substantially contributing to the show. With her riotous voice fluctuations and flawless character, Ginger (Allie Hatch), is a standout
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> Though sound is plagued by microphone blemishes throughout, creative props are utilized, tremendously enhancing the production.
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> Boisterous humor and astounding performances accompany this fast-paced rock musical, generating a unique and delightful experience.
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> by Jake Price of Laguna Hills
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> Zombies Invade Costa Mesa High School
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> The unexpected suicide of a high school student at Enrico Fermi High sets the high-energy but chilling scene for “Zombie Prom” at Costa Mesa High School.
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> “Zombie Prom” is an off-Broadway musical that opened in New York in 1996 at the Variety Arts Theatre. The students start their everyday routine with the new school year when they meet the new rebel Jonny (Kory Bennion) who spells his name without the traditional “H”. Toffee (Summersky Rudas), the high school popular girl and pep squad member, finds herself falling in love with the bad boy. The tragic heartbreak of Jonny when these lovers break apart drives into the nuclear plant waste, returning later to senior year Prom, as a zombie.
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> The leads Toffee and Jonny have an amazing connection with each on stage that protrudes into the audience whenever they gaze into each others eyes or sing their solos or duets to one another. Toffee has an astounding voice at times but when faulty she covers it up without letting it phase her one bit. Jonny has a splendid voice quality, and even though there are mic problems, he doesn’t let himself rely too much on the technical elements of the production.
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> The members of the high school ensemble have great energy but some certain individuals sometimes break character and don’t seem to know what’s going on. Though they do this, they have great timing when it comes to choreography and great pitch when singing.
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> Zombies, cheerleaders, crazy principals, and sleazy reporters make up this great cast and fun show. The cast looks like they enjoy themselves on stage and with what they do. So as the prom grows closer and time grows shorter, reports of zombies at prom were still possible, and then came Jonny.
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> by Jeremy Powers of Laguna Hills
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> There’s a Zombie at the Prom in Costa Mesa!!
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> A comic strip atomic age love story come to life, Costa Mesa High School’s Zombie Prom, written by Dana P. Rowe and John Dempsey, is a musical set in the 1950’s at Enrico Fermi High School, fittingly named after the creator of the atomic bomb. When high school senior Toffee (Summersky Rudas) dumps her bad boy steady sweetheart Jonny (Kory Bennion), he commits suicide—by jumping right into the Nuclear Power Plant. Jonny is now a walking, nuclear zombie, but instead of eating brains, all he wants to do is graduate! Will Miss Delilah Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk) allow him to come back to school? Will Toffee take him back despite her parents’ demands? And, most importantly—who is going with who to the Prom?
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> While either transitioning between an over-the-top angst-filled teen or a stiff-walking zombie, the entire cast packs tremendous energy into their 50’s teenage selves, keeping the show fast-paced. Although sometimes it’s hard to hear the exact words sung by the chorus, the ensemble work together cohesively while on stage, yet, simultaneously, stand out individually through each character’s personality quirks. Their over-dramatic expressions are reminiscent of pop-art, while, with their dedication, they give a realistic honesty to the show.
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> Bennion (Jonny) gives a stand-out performance as the zombie with a human side. His voice is soulful and beautiful, especially as he croons a duet with sweet-sounding Rudas (Toffee), “The Voice in the Ocean”, proclaiming her love brought him back from the dead. With every note and every line, Bennion brings genuine passion to his character as he desperately tries to win back his still-living love. Other memorable characters include the overbearing nerd Ginger (Allie Hatch); the sleazy, raunchy, and humorous news reporter with a jazzy voice, Eddie Flagrante (Winter Salins); and, with commanding stage presence, Rybarczyk’s raspy, shrieking Miss Strict.
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> The set, a school hallway of green atomic symbols mixed with bright colors, was designed and painted by Carrise Ahern, who also stage manages the show and performs in the production. Make-up designer Ciara Rudas is behind Jonny’s ghoulish green zombie face, which is applied backstage in only ten minutes during the performance, transforming him from one of the living to undead.
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> Costa Mesa’s hilarious Zombie Prom reminds us that love brings us together—and that zombies can have a human side, too.
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> by Megan Crayne Beall of Laguna Hills
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> Imagine a typical 1950’s high school on the outskirts of a nuclear American town. Now, add a few lovesick teenagers, catchy songs, and a zombie, and you’ve got Zombie Prom! Written by Dana P. Rowe and John Dempsey about a rebel and a good girl falling in love and the outcome of it all, Costa Mesa High School did a fantastic job of putting it all together.
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> When a bad boy, Jonny- without an H, meets a promising sweetheart, Toffee, the dead comes back to life in Enrico Fermi High School. When Miss Strict comes to break these two apart, the young heartbroken Jonny throws himself into the nuclear reactor outside of town. After the tragic suicide and many forlorn prayers of love, Jonny comes back only as a zombie. Jonny and the once reluctant Toffee then fight for their love, resulting in Zombie Prom.
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> The talented cast overwhelms the audience with their fantastic ability to sing and dance. Among these young students, Kory Bennion (Jonny), demonstrates his strong vocal capacity as the zombie in love, singing along side Summersky Rudas, his love interest. The pair sings a few powerful ballads, wowing the audience immediately.
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> Additionally, the connection between Lucy Rybarczyk and Winter Salins brings audience members out of their seats in laughter. The couple’s suave, Latin duet, “Exposé” is both enticing and goofy.
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> To bring the zombie out from 6 feet under, Ciara Rudas and Amanda Moore apply an array of different greens and blacks to portray the rotting flesh of the corpse. Bunnion’s hands are completely green, while his clothes were tattered and torn, leaving his face only as an unattractive zombie mess. The work put into the makeup was very impressing, due to the fact that cast members made the audience feel transported back into the nuclear 50’s.
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> The ensemble for this show is well chosen, and each member just oozes out excitement and potential. Allie Hatch and Brandi Birdsong (Coco and Ginger) grace the stage with their great characterization and presence.
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> In all, Zombie Prom is an overall fantastic experience. The music will make you want to get out of your seat, or even just hop out from 6 feet under.
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> by Sarah Jarrahian of Laguna Hills
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> Zombie Invades Costa Mesa High School
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> Some high schools have jocks and cheerleaders, but at Enrico Fermi High School, they have a teenage zombie! Join Costa Mesa High School in their performance of Zombie Prom, a unique story of love and high school.
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> Set in the nuclear age of the 1950s, the story begins with two students in love, the sweet Toffee and rebel Jonny. After going steady for a few months, Toffee’s parents force her to break up with Jonny, resulting in him flinging himself into the nearby nuclear plant. Three weeks later, it is revealed that Toffee’s proclamation of love after Jonny died brought him back as a zombie. Hilarity ensues as Jonny, with the help of reporter Eddie Flagrante, tries to fight his way back into the school and senior prom.
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> The ensemble of Costa Mesa’s production grounds the over the top show together with well-developed characters. From the sassy Coco (Brandi Birdsong) to the baton loving Cookie (Devan Davison), taken literally as she kisses her baton on multiple occasions, every one of the cast members shows commitment even when they do not have lines.
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> Summersky Rudas convincingly portrays the “good girl” Toffee, using facial expressions that both convey her bubbly personality and give her character impressive nonverbal comedic timing. Opposite Toffee is Jonny (Kory Bennion), using a voice that is a perfect fit for his rebellious character. His singing and dancing abilities are best displayed in the song “How Can I Say Goodbye?”, using Elvis moves to command the stage.
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> Lucy Rybarczyk and Winter Salins captivate the audience as Miss Strict and Eddie Flagrante. Each of them have very well-developed characters, with Lucy using her authoritative voice and Winter using his physicality to portray a sleazy reporter. The two displayed a definite change in character whenever they were around each other, which was especially apparent in the song “Exposé”. Even though cast members could sometimes not be understood in their songs, their energy and character work made up for it.
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> Each one of the cast members’ costumes was specific to each character and the time period. The character’s hair gave an added life to the show, as little changes were made to their hair each time they came on stage.
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> Costa Mesa High School is commended for their take on a very unique show, using an energy and believability that culminated in the final title song.
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>
>
> by Sierra Henderson of Laguna Hills
>
> --------------------------------------------------
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> The Musically Talented Undead Are at Costa Mesa High
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>
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> Blue lights shine on the stage while a group of zombies immerge. Moaning and groaning zombies begin to crawl toward the audience with eerie music in the background. So began the recent performance of Zombie Prom at Costa Mesa High School.
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> Zombie Prom is an off-Broadway musical written by John Dempsey and was composed by Dana P. Rowe. This production was based on two lovers, Johnny (Kory Bennion) and Toffee (Summersky Rudas), going to Enrico Fermi High School. Johnny was bad to the bone but when Toffee breaks it off because of concerned and controlling parents Johnny commits suicide by hurling himself into toxic waste. Using the power of love, Johnny rises from the dead in zombie form but the school principal, Miss Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk), doesn’t allow Johnny to come back. She also doesn’t allow anybody attending Enrico Fermi High to fraternize with Johnny. This has Toffee going on a rollercoaster of emotions and leaving her with a difficult decision.
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> The actors showed great feeling and they displayed their emotion very well. For example, Toffee described her distress and confusion through her intense facial expressions. Or Johnny showing emotion is his face and voice especially when he sang “How Can I Say Goodbye”. All the actors had a lot of energy throughout the entire musical. Ensemble and supporting characters are harder roles than you would think. Leads have to show a specific feeling or emotion but supporting characters and ensemble have freedom and must use their imagination for their role. During this show, every ensemble character was into character at any point that they were on-stage. This made a real impact to the entire show and portrayed more of what was going on.
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> As a whole, Zombie Prom was very captivating enjoyable show for all ages. Throughout the show, you could hear everyone awing at the amazing band. The audience became more and more emotionally into the show as the incidents were happening on-stage. This production made the audience see a new unseen side of a zombie. The cast did an amazing job on transforming a creepy horror into a great comedy.
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>
>
> by Tia Ferri of Laguna Hills
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> --------------------------------------------------
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> Costa Mesa brings Zombies to Life
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> February: the month of love, red roses, giant hearts, and who would have known, zombies! Costa Mesa High School’s production of Zombie Prom brings laughter amongst its audience. This Off Broadway 1950’s rock and roll musical was an instant hit.
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> The unique romance begins in Enrico Fermi High school. The rebellious teenager Jonny Warner and good girl Toffee are going steady when her parents forbid her from ever seeing the boy again. Jonny commits suicide by jumping into the nuclear power plant near the school, but in hopes of regaining his romance with Toffee, he returns as a Zombie. The musical continues as the principal Miss Delilah Strict and the students argue over whether to allow the dead boy back to school.
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> Kory Bennion (Jonny) is convincing in his passion for Toffee by the movements and expressions he makes. His Michael Jackson Dance moves display his character’s rock star personality. Summersky Rudas (Toffee) has a fitting girly speaking voice with great enunciation and reacts well off of other characters.
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> Lucy Rybarczyk (Miss Delilah Strict) shows tremendous character development. Her nasally yet booming screams frighten the students at Enrique High and prove her character’s name very fitting. Winter Salins (Eddie Flagrante) brings comedy as he flirts with Miss Strict and gives off a slight sleaziness. These two show great singing voices and comedy in their provocative song “Expose”.
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> Toffee’s posse of girls proves to be a favorite from the audience’s laughter. Standouts include Allie Hatch (Ginger), Devon Davison (Cookie), and Brandi Birdsong (Coco) who each are constantly acting even when the focus is not on them. Each has their own unique quirks whether it’s nerdy glasses, obsession with batons, or sassy and flirtatious behavior.
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> The production is a fun twist on high school romance, and although the majority of the vocals are not spectacular, the energy of the cast is high and enjoyable. They even incorporate video into the performance by filming Flagrante’s news station. The mics seem to be having problems but the actors recover from it well.
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> Romance lover’s and horror fans unite at this upbeat, exaggerated twisted love story. Seeing this musical brings a new meaning to the phrase “till death do us part”.
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>
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> by Allie Whitfield of Newport Harbor
>
> --------------------------------------------------
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> Zombie Student Crashes Costa Mesa High School
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> Costa Mesa High School leads the audience through the ups and downs of high school relationships in the 50’s; however problems arise when a handsome rebel turns into a Zombie (Kory Bennion) creating hilarious drama for the whole town.
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> Jonny Warner (Kory Bennion) and Eddie Flagrante (Winter Salins) carried the show. Their solid vocals and immense commitment to their characters drew the audience’s attention to them every time they were on stage. Salins slinky, sleazy character walk perfectly outlined his occupation as a tabloid reporter, creating a very realistic persona. He brought out a soft side to Miss. Strict (Lucy Rabarczyk) as they paraded around they stage in one of the most memorable songs in the show “Expose”. Bennion’s smooth dance moves which were a mixture of Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson flawlessly accented his crisp, clear vocals, perfectly suited for the role of a teenage crooner who also happened to be a Zombie.
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> Ginger (Allie Hatch), Candy (Alyssa Hatton), Coco (Brandi Birdsong), and Cookie (Devan Davison) were a wonderful ensemble. Each girl created a very distinct character with constant habits and diverse personalities. Each and every girl, weather they were in the spotlight or not stuck with all their character choices making the audience believe that they were simply playing themselves.
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> Although there were some microphone problems and inconsistent vocals, the entire cast had a lot of heart and commitment and put on a very memorable show.
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>
>
> by Allison Sheppard of Newport Harbor
>
> --------------------------------------------------
>
> Every school has them, jocks, nerds, and….NUCLEAR ZOMBIES?! Enrico Fermi High students are just like any other kids in the fifties, worried about baseball games, prep squad routines and staying on the good side of the overbearing principle Mrs. Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk). This all changes when “rebel without an H”: Jonny Warner (Cory Bennion) enrolls, and falls for good girl Toffee (Summersky Rudas). When the adults forbid there relationship, Jonny commits suicide by jumping into the nuclear power plant, only to return as a zombie to reclaim Toffee’s undying love and complete his senior year. When slime ball reporter Eddie Flagrante (Winter Salins) picks up the story, and reunites with former flame Mrs. Strict, things just get more complicated. Does death conquer Jonny and Toffee? Do Strict and Flagrante rekindle their past romance? Will everyone get to their senior prom? All is revealed in Costa Mesa’s production of Zombie Prom.
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> Bennion attacks the role of bad boy Jonny with charisma and flare, impressing with his rock n’ roll inspired vocals and dance moves displayed “How Can I Say Goodbye?” His adoring countenance is unaffected by his undead exterior and doesn’t fail to melt hearts. The beautiful Rudas embodies innocent Toffee with her exaggerated facial expressions and leaves the audience rolling with impeccable comedic timing. Their unbelievable love story is believable as they display the complicated array of emotions surrounding the couple during the harmonious “The Voice in the Ocean”.
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> Salins exudes all the sleaze demanded by the tabloid reporter Flagrante and slinks about the stage evoking peals of laughter with every clever innuendo and raise of his eyebrow. Rybarczyk’s commands the stage with her icy glares and comical speaking voice, and moves with a poise not possessed by the students that surround her. Together they steal the show and the audience’s hearts as they glide across the stage in their steamy duet “Expose”.
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> Other stand outs include the Nerdy Couple, Josh (Adrian Martin) and Ginger (Allie Hatch). This dynamic duo hysterically reacts to every aspect of the scene and never ceases to make the audience crack up over their quirkiness. The Ensemble commits fully to their roles and keeps the energy high at all times. Despite some vocal setbacks and technical difficulties the cast recovers well and makes up for it in their acting and overall spunk.
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> Costa Mesa's offbeat musical horror story leaves audiences laughing till the next life!
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>
>
> by Hannah Whitfield of Newport Harbor
>
> --------------------------------------------------
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> 'Zombie Prom' Raises the Dead at Costa Mesa
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>
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> The outrageous love story of a typical girl and a zombie is brought to life at Costa Mesa High. Toffee, Summersky Rudas, and Jonny Warner, Kory Bennion, lead the enthusiastic cast. The other kids back up their rebellion, picketing and rioting for 'zombie rights' until prom is canceled, almost. At the last second Eddie Flagrante, Winter Salins, saves the day convincing Miss Delilah Strict, Lucy Rybarczyk, that true love, between the kids and themselves, should prevail.
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> A particularly lovely group, Candy, Coco, Ginger, and Cookie (Alyssa Hatton, Brandi Birdsong, Allie Hatch, and Devon Davison) back up Toffee in all of her turmoil. Each chooses a unique character and sticks with it through the entire show. Whenever Candy crosses onto the stage she is chewing her nails to the quick, often shoving them nervously into her friends faces, drawing laughs from the watchers. Coco serenades the listeners with a strong, clear, mocking tone as she parades about sassily imitating Miss Strict. Gyrating her hips, flouncing her hair, and scolding the children she amuses everyone on and off stage. Cookie steals a wonderful moment and shows her devotion to her character as she throws herself upon the ground, wailing, and mourning the loss of her baton and pep squad, a punishment for the whole school. Although a seemingly small part Devon Davison is the perfect example of a cast member who embraces the challenge of creating a character in limited time, and succeeds. Completing this group is Ginger, perhaps the most outrageous of all. Every time Allie Hatch enters the stage the mix of nerdy awkwardness, girlish thrill at the adventurous new turn of advents, and concern for the rules follows her. Another standout character is Eddie Flagrante, high school bad boy turned tabloid reporter. From his slick, nearly sleazy, walk, his nasally voice, to his constant attempts at a winning face Salinas draws the audience into his character until they are rooting for him at every turn.
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> Every member of the Costa Mesa cast throws themselves into the slightly daunting task of taking on such an over the top cheesy show, and they delivered.
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> by Jillian Paul of Newport Harbor
>
> --------------------------------------------------
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> Every Girls Dream Guy Turns Into Their Worst Nightmare
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> Costa Mesa High School's Production of Zombie Prom puts some fifties swing in your step before it falls off due to rotting flesh. The choreography makes your skin crawl like the undead out of their crypts, the music is catchy like the plague of atomic zombification, and the suspense kills you, but brings you back to life before you know it.
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> This story sets you in the halls of an atomic age stricken high school called Enrico Fermi High School, named after the founder of the atomic bomb, and this school lives up to its name by placing its location right next door to a nuclear plant. This school is run by principle Miss Delilah Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk), a very cruel and uptight character that tends to scream and yell at any little thing that is not going as accorded to schedule, which tends to be a lot since she has to deal with students such as the ones that attend EFHS. One of these students is Toffee (Summersky Rudas), a beautiful young red head that soon goes crazy for a guy that every guy wants to be and can get any girl that he can see, Jonny, without an H, Warner (Kory Bennion). As soon as Jonny accepts Toffee's hand as they ask each other to prom they know that they're in love, its too bad that Toffee's parents don't approve when they hear about his misunderstood bad boy attitude and force her to end things between them.
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> Jonny is devastated when he gets this news and commits suicide by jumping into the nuclear plant, leaving Toffee depressed and in tears. But three weeks after Jonny's death, he returns back to life by the power of Toffee's love for him. So, Jonny goes back to school in order to try to live normal life in the afterlife without any disturbances, but that's very hard to do when you have a hot headed news reporter, Eddie Flagrante (Winter Salins), following you in order for him to get the top news story. This puts a big hilarious spin on the story and keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen next.
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> This show has everything and CMHS Drama does a fantastic job at showing it. The whole cast adds in there own bit of hilarity from Bennion's mumbling during an interview to a techies amazing comic timing to hold out a cigarette for Rybarczyk in order for her to pull herself together. With only two acts, CMHS Drama was amazingly able to show me a possible add on to Thriller.
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> by Nijel Thames of Newport Harbor
>
> --------------------------------------------------
>
> Costa Mesa’s Zombie Prom is a Nuclear Success!
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>
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> The thrilling story of high school rebel Jonny Warner – without an ‘h’ – comes to life in Costa Mesa’s auditorium as eerie lighting, over-the-top acting, and an energetic cast and crew work together to create a cheesy show that is bound to entertain! Jonny, played by Kory Bennion and his sweetheart Toffee, played by Summersky Rudas, overcome the barriers presented by death and teen prejudice in order to be united in love and attend their senior prom.
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> Bennion, with his dashing looks and masculine vocals, is a standout from his first appearance onstage. His love for Toffee is evident as he sings “How Can I Say Goodbye,” dancing in an Elvis style as he mourns that Toffee no longer loves him and asks her to prom on broadcast television. Rudas is similarly able to stand out from much of the cast, passionate as she sings “Easy to Say” in a phone conversation about her relationship with Jonny. Furthermore, her strong, clear voice rises above all others in group numbers such as “Jonny Don’t Go,” and her dedication to her character and acting, in happiness and in misery, truly brings the real ‘Toffee’ to the stage. Together in “The Voice of the Ocean,” Bennion and Rudas use soft harmonies and affectionate body language to bring a sense of true, undying love to the stage.
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> Aside from these two leads, a strong supporting and ensemble cast augment the show with their energy and passion. Ensemble standout Coco (Brandi Birdsong) stuns with her striking vocals during “Rules, Regulations and Respect,” full energy and the ‘sass’ that defines her character. School principal Miss Delilah Strict, played by Lucy Rybarcyk, is the cast’s crowning character. She takes the stage powerfully with every entrance, embodying perfectly the strict, bitter, middle aged woman that Strict is. In “Then Came Johnny,” Rybarcyk demonstrates the truly ridiculous (and hilarious) nature of Strict’s character as she shouts triumphantly, “This is not a democracy – this is a high school!”
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> Overall, Costa Mesa’s “Zombie Prom” was a success as a result of a devoted and lively cast. Oozing with cheesiness and dripping with fun, this show will give anyone – dead or alive – a thrillingly nuclear night!
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>
>
> by Tal Kirk of Newport Harbor
>
> --------------------------------------------------
>
> A Zombie Comes to Life at Mesa
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>
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> The story begins when the new bad boy high school student. Jonny Warner, comes to a nuclear town. It is a story of boy meets girl and boy and girl fall in love. The story intends to have a perfect ending until Jonny Warner goes to the nuclear plant and commits suicide. Jonny then returns to high school, wanting to finish his education but is haulted from his dreams by the principal, Ms. Strict. In the end, Jonny returns to high school and is reconnected to his parents Ms. Strict and Eddie Flagranted, the editor of Expose Magazine.
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> Jonny, played by Kory Bennion, took the stage as a zombie. He was able to be a zombie, but yet the audience could still tell he was a love struck teenager trying to live a normal life. Kory's great dance moves added to the musical numbers and truly made it a sight to see. Toffee, played by Summersky Rudas, perfectly plays Jonny's teenage love. Ms. Strict, played by Lucy Rybarczyk, and Eddie Flagrante, played by Winter Salins, worked well off eachother. Their song "Expose" was incredible.
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> As a whole the ensemble was great. Each person had a different character and retained that character throughout the show. The cast embraced the fun of the show and that was felt by the audience.
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> The added T.V.s for broadcasting news added to the story of the show. Make-up was excellent. They were able to complete zombie make-up in about 15 minutes, which is something spectacular. The hair of the actors was set for the time period and worked for the show.
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> The cast and crew worked together to put on a spectacular rendition of Zombie Prom.
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> by Tori Harris of Newport Harbor
>
> --------------------------------------------------
>
> Costa Mesa brings life to “Zombie Prom”
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> It can be difficult for a teenage to fit in in high school. This goes without saying for Johnny Warner, the big zombie on campus in Costa Mesa’s production of Zombie Prom.
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> At Enrico Fermi High School, set just up the street from the city’s nuclear power plant, Johnny Warner is having the perfect senior year. He meets Toffee and they fall madly in love, but when her parents forbid them to be together, Johnny reacts out of angst by jumping into the city’s power plant. Thought to be dead, he returns from the grave weeks later to shake up the entire school.
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> Kory Bennion plays the green teen Johnny Warner. He displays a youthful, rebellious confidence which is swiftly decomposed one he falls in love with Toffee. He and Toffee (Summersky Rudas) gaze at each other with melodramatic puppy dog eyes, sticking with the show’s exaggerated nature. Warner never fails to hit his notes and never misses a step at the front and center of the show’s dance numbers, proving he can handle all three sides of the role with ease.
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> Eddie Flagrante, editor of “Expose Magazine,” is played by Winter Salins. Salins captures his character’s sleaziness with a menacing attitude. He reunites with a member of Enrico Fermi’s faculty, Miss Delilah Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk), who also happens to be his ex-lover. Rybarczyk is uptight and harsh as she admonishes the students for minor offenses, but when she rekindles her flame with Salnins, her loose side opens up.
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> The ensemble of high school students are a class of their own. They are immersed in their scenes and bring energy to the song and dance numbers. Noah Jeyarejah is a standout of the student ensemble. He is constantly taking interest in the stage’s scenario, and has some exceptionally funny moments in dance numbers. Allie Hatch is another memorable student. Even past her oversized glasses it is clear from her face that she is involved in the scenes. Her giddy outbursts provide comic relief as well.
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> There are a few minor issues regarding sound, but whenever technology is in shape the effects and design enhance the actors’ performances greatly. Microphones provide fuller sound whether actors are singing or speaking.
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> Costa Mesa’s Zombie Prom has heart, whether or not it’s hero character’s is still running. The show’s cast and crew embrace the musical’s fun, lighthearted themes and put on an entertaining production.
>
> by Geoff Kaufman of SOCSA Dana Hills
>
> --------------------------------------------------
>
> Costa Mesa’s “Zombie Prom” is to Die For
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>
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> Everyone thinks their high school experience was bad, but the students of the 1950’s Enrico Fermi High School have it the worst, complete with an overly strict principal, post-breakup suicides, and a zombie attending their senior prom! Costa Mesa performs their version of “Zombie Prom” following the story Toffee and her unique ex-boyfriend Jonny.
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>
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> Toffee (Summersky Rudas) possesses the over the top speaking voice that is needed to portray a confused recipient of young love. Her facials truly express the differences from when she is deeply in love with Jonny to when she is torn over how to handle the post death situation. Rudas’ singing stands out the most when paired harmoniously with Jonny (Kory Bennion). The pair sings “Ain’t No Goin’ Back” with the true sincerity of incipient teenage crushes. However, the duo is also able to portray their strained relationship by expressing the confused love they share through pained expressions and tension filled body language.
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> Bennion not only shines in his partner work, but he is also able to single handedly command the stage. In his solo, “How Can I Say Goodbye”, his dance talent is exposed as he rocks the Elvis-inspired choreography. His never failing high energy ironically brings a lot of life to his zombie solo!
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>
>
> Eddie Flagrante (Winter Salins) and Miss Delilah Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk) are another outstanding duo. This pair manages to bring humor and romance to the stage all at once while performing their memorable duet “Expose”. Their constant banter and tension filled romance is made apparent by their coy looks and suggestive behavior.
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> The ensemble of students is a cohesive group that demonstrates their unity by performing in sync choreography during the big dance numbers. However, individually they possess their own idiosyncrasies that some actresses truly bring to life. Ginger (Allie Hatch) is eye catching no matter where she is on stage. Her hilarious facial expressions and intentionally awkward antics accurately portray her nerdy persona. Her counterpart, Josh (Adrian Martin), similarly exudes the comedic, yet nerdy role. Coco (Alyssa Hatton) creates a lasting impression by leading the crew in the song “Rules, Regulations, and Respect”. Her vocals and humorous impersonation of Miss Strict makes her a standout from the rest of the ensemble.
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> Even the presence of the walking dead cannot stop the cast of Costa Mesa from bringing such life to the stage!
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>
>
> by Lindsay Fiorentino of SOCSA Dana Hills
>
> --------------------------------------------------
>
> Costa Mesa High School Goes Zombie
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>
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> Costa Mesa High School’s journey into Zombie Prom was an intriguing expedition. Dana P. Rowe and John Dempsey captured one high school and a zombie to tie them to the script of a fascinating movie, Zombie Prom.
>
> The musical begins at Enrico Fermi High School, where Toffee (Summersky Rudas) meets the love of her life Jonny Warner (Kory Bennion), rebel at Enrico High. When Toffee’s parents find out that she has a bad-influenced boyfriend they make her break up with him. So upset by the break up Jonny goes to the nuclear plant by the school and commits suicide by jumping into the plant. While in his dark watery grave Jonny hears Toffee’s plea for him and comes back from the dead to be with his sweetheart. At the end of Act 1 their reunited love once again is tarnished by Ms. Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk) their high school principal. In Act 2 Jonny and Toffee must decide whether to stay together and get their prom taken away or stay apart and never see each other again.
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> The makeup in the play really added to the story. With only ten minutes to spare Costa Mesa’s makeup team turned Jonny from a regular boy to a horrific zombie. With the small amount of time they reached to their fullest abilities of turning him into a zombie.
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> Every actor embraced characteristics personal to his or her role. For example Ginger, Toffee’s dorky friend, always put her character into everything really making her a stand out character. Also Eddie (Winter Salins), Strict’s high school love, portrayed a tough and sleazy but dorky news reporter. When him and Strict reunite their love spark Strict really transitioned well from being a stereotypical strict principal to being in love.
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> The music blended very well with the acting. For instance, when CoCo, Toffee’s friend, started to mock Ms. Strict in Rules, Regulations and Respect, she not only brought outstanding vocals but also hilarious acting that made the crowd crazy for Coco. Jonny shone the most in his singing and dancing. He stayed on pitch the entire time while adding Michael Jackson and Elvis moves into his performance. He seemed the most comfortable while playing his character and had an exquisite stage presence. Overall this musical was unlike any musical I have ever seen.
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>
>
> by Mckenna Ryan of SOCSA Dana Hills
>
> --------------------------------------------------
>
> Costa Mesa brings the 50's back to life
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> Senior prom is one of the most anticipated moments of the year for high school boys, girls, and zombies! Costa Mesa High School's thrilling production of Zombie Prom moves audiences to the edge of their seats with wild dance numbers and a zany cast of characters.
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>
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> Written by Dana P. Rowe and John Dempsey, Zombie Prom is the melodramatic saga of a teenage boy and girl who fall in love and plan to spend the rest of their days together. But due to the girl's strict parents, the couple is forced to break up, and the boy hurls himself into a nuclear power silo... only to reemerge as a zombie!
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> Kory Bennion assumes the role of bad-boy Jonny Warner in this production, and brings excitement and humor to the stage with his repertoire of dance moves, ranging from Michael Jackson's moon walking to Elvis Presley's hip-throwing. Wincing in agony from the struggles of being undead, Bennion clearly conveys Jonny's suffering and evokes a profound sense of empathy from the audience.
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> Throughout the show, Summersky Rudas's voice enraptures the audience with operatic belting melodies in her role as the troubled teen, Toffee. Her facial expressions fill the audience with laughter, such as her over exaggerated pouting face while she is "a teenager in mourning."
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> Allie Hatch brings a welfare of jocularity to the audience as the quirky nerd girl, Ginger. Hatch steps onstage with complete commitment to her role, and can be seen throwing a big and geeky smile into all of her dance steps in the show. Brandy Birdsong, who plays the role of the teen diva Coco, displays her sassy attitude on stage to inspire raucous laughter from the crowd, such as when she struts around a classroom like a peacock and barks orders at the students, imitating the vile Miss Strict.
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> Any performance that involves the living dead is usually accompanied by incredible make-up artists, and Costa Mesa's Zombie Prom is no exception. Using a clever combination of greens, browns, and grays, Stephani Reuter creates a realistic zombie look on Bennion's face that amazes the crowd when the zombie debuts on stage.
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> A lively ensemble coupled with expert technicians make Costa Mesa's Zombie Prom a stupendous experience for its audiences. The cast and crew's dedication to the show make it nothing short of an atomic achievement in high school theater.
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>
>
> by Bryan Hefner of Tesoro
>
> --------------------------------------------------
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> The undead dance their way to Costa Mesa.
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>
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> Costa Mesa‘s “Zombie Prom” is your typical Girl-meets-Ghoul musical in which a boy meets girl, boy throws himself into a river of toxic waste, boy comes back as a zombie to be with his girlfriend again, boy and girl go to a prom. Through all this, they face ridicule from disapproving peers and strict teachers, after all it is an unconventional relationship, until finally gaining total acceptance by random twists of fate.
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>
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> Jonny (Kory Bennion), the zombie, and Toffee (Summersky Rudas), the girlfriend, display a believable love connection especially when they first meet and they are holding each other, looking into one another’s eyes, and a cupid-like student prances by throwing flowers into the air. Hip gyrating and pelvic thrusting, Jonny proves that zombies can dance with the execution of signature Elvis and Michael Jackson dance moves during his performance on live television.
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> Rules, Regulation, and Respect is something not unknown to an evil teacher named Miss Strict (Lucy Rybarczyk). Strict storms the stage with her shrill, nasally voice and firm posture as she slaps her hand with her ruler scaring students like Cookie (Devon Davison) as she takes the little girl’s baton and makes her run off crying, establishing her authoritarian presence. A hilarious moment in the show is when Strict accounts her love affair with Eddie Flagrante (Winter Salins) in a film noire style while sensually leaning up against the wall, taking a cigarette handed to her from offstage, and blowing a long, held out stream of smoke into the air. Flagrante and Strict exhibit a steamy romance in “Expose” as they tango across the stage and Strict acts like a Matador holding out a cape and Flagrante being the bull racing toward it.
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> Throughout the entirety of the show, the ensemble always has high energy and commits to their distinct characters, particularly Ginger (Allie Hatch) who never strays from the goody two shoes nerd she portrays.
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> Green, Brown, and Black makeup are blended together to enliven the zombie that is Jonny; however, his hairline can be seen and throughout the show his makeup fades away. Hair is reminiscent of the 50’s time period, and is noticed especially on Miss Strict who has a Lucille Ball hairstyle.
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>
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> All in all, Costa Mesa’s “Zombie Prom” tells us that a girl and a zombie can fall in love despite the unorthodox relationship.
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>
>
> by Nick Mestakides of Tesoro
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>
> --------------------------------------------------
>
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