By Charlotte Morritt-Jacobs - @morrittjacobs on Twitter

Strap On Your Dancing Shoes, New West is Back in Action with “Jukebox”

Jul 3, 2016 | 10:12 AM

LETHBRIDGE – Take a trip down nostalgia lane one take-home tune at a time.

The first musical pastiche comedy Jukebox of the season presented by New West Theatre at the Yates Theatre is sure to entertain loyal fans, as well as those brand new to the Lethbridge art scene.

This merry new work is the successful product of director, choreographer, designer, and performer collaboration.

With all-local new and returning faces, the audience is treated to three decades of jukebox favourites, strung together in a variety-show manner by stand-alone and reoccurring comedic sketches, filled with local Lethbridge pop culture references.

The show begins in the swinging poodle skirt era of the 50’s with musical numbers from The Cookies, The Duprees and The Chordettes in Grease-style fashion.

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All of the performers go out of their way to uphold musical-theatre tradition, delivering energized and thoughtful renditions of diverse musical genres.

Acting in his fourth New West show in a row, Tom Debello is a polished vocalist with a distinctive and powerful voice. Thankfully Debello does artists such as Roy Orbison and Jim Croce justice with all encompassing delivery.

Scott Carpenter, a New West vet of 25 years compliments his vocal abilities in numbers such as “Mustang Sally,” and Mockingbird. Carpenter is a pleasure to watch on stage.

Alongside Carpenter, Erica Hunt, New West legend, eases into twangy the role of a Harper Vallet deboair and a pedal pusher gum drop girl in “Don’t Say Nothing Bad About My Baby.”

Newcomer AJ Baragar gets his big New West break in songs such as 867-5309. This performance stood out in particular, as a three-piece telephone box was brought out for Baragar to use. This type of set additive would have nice to see in a few other songs.

New West has once again played to designing shows that highlight performer’s artistic abilities. Returning young talent Alexa Elser, a natural triple threat, is not only a versatile vocalist crooning Olivia Newton John, but is also a skilled dancer, captivating audiences with her tap-dance ensembles.

The progression of the music in the show is done well. After a 20 minute intermission, the show transforms into a funk and classic rock work that has something to offer for everyone.

In the second half of the show, the audience is graced with new comer Shelby Wilson’s stunning performance of Juice Newton’s “Angel of the Morning.”

Up until this point, Wilson had really only contributed to superb harmonies, but in this number she broke through as a true songstress storyteller, alluring the audience with her unique vocal style and impressive power.

We can only hope to see a lot more of Wilson in New West Productions to come.

A key moment in the production merits reference to Music Director Paul Walker’s skillful musical arrangement.

Canadian rock group Blood, Sweat and Tears is honoured by Walker in his lengthy acapella mash-up .

The piece truly shows off the controlled capabilities of each individual performer.It goes without saying “God Bless the Child,” for this compelling number.

Also, an honour mention goes out to the extremely talented band who frequently trade instruments and elevate the production with flutes, banjos, slide guitars and more.

Turning now to the comedy sketches in between songs; at times some of routines such as “The Man They Call Reven,” dragged on a little too long. With that in mind, there were several relatable instances brought to light that allowed for newcomers to shine.

Baragar and Elser shone in their welcome wagon saraides routine and Hunt effortlessly brought on laughter with her over-the-top PSA “What’s that?” women who can’t stay focused.

One of the most humbling parts of the show comes from the comedic reprise of localized sketches riddled with Lethbridge references. “They Say,” archetypal gossipers will have you snickering at the rumours of Lethbridge getting a third bridge and the Canes going “all the way.”

Likewise, Kelly Roberts (musician) joins the cast in a “theory on why we love lethbridge,” stint that takes jabs at the wind, the city’s current recycling situation and concept of distance with the West side .

In addition to the fine work of the cast, the lighting and audio was executed well. The costumes were realistic to the eras and there was a lot of seamless costume changes. A special shout out to Carpenter for flaunting a tangerine disco dress and a 70’s wigs as this was a huge hit with the audience.

This fun-filled family friendly show is packed with talent, and serves a wonderful night out for people of all ages.

“JukeBox” runs until July 16. Shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday, except Canada Day, July 4 and 11. You can also catch two Saturday matinees at 1 p.m. on July 9 and 16.

Tickets can be purchased by calling 403-329-SEAT (7328), online at http://www.lethbridge.ca/tickets, or in person at the Yates Theatre or ENMAX Centre.