Northampton Community College’s “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” is a haunting tale of love and acceptance in a time meant to divide the masses that begs its audience to hope for a change to come someday and accept others not by mere appearances or differences but look for what makes us human.
The final part of NCC’s Summer Theater Series asks the audience to look more at the world around them and begs the question: what makes a monster and what makes a man? Based on the Disney film and Victor Hugo novel of the same name with music by the legendary Alan Menken and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, NCC’s show will run until July 26th in the Lipkin Theatre, Northampton Community College, 3835 Green Pond Road, Bethlehem Township. It is a powerhouse of a show that holds nothing back with incredible use of the acoustics of the stage (with an accompanying choir throughout the show).
This reimagined classic opens with a brilliant image of the iconic Notre Dame light (masterfully done) shining through the equally impressive iconic circular stained glass window. From there the show attempts to make you rethink what you know of the story and weaves a mystical tale through the streets of Paris as each of our characters shine through. From powerful solos to haunting ensembles to mesmerizing dance numbers, the music swells and captures your soul as well as your heart.
Jordan Joseph as Quasimodo steals our hearts as the titular character. He commands the gentleness and tender nature of the character with masterfully performed sign language (on account of the daily bell ringing) and powerful ballads that showcases his raw emotion in and incredible range in such songs as “Out There” and “Made of Stone”
Dan Swank as Claude Frollo takes charge of every scene and dictates the very air, daring us to hold our breath. His portrayal opposite of Joseph’s Quasimodo always adds coldness to the scene, even when it seems there is a hint of love in Frollo. Yet it is Swank’s mastery of the character that shines in the iconic song “Hellfire” that leaves you truly fearful of what the villain will do next.
Julianna Braga as Esmeralda immediately brings life and vibrant colors to the streets of Paris. She holds her own in a sword fight and proves that she’s no damsel in distress. Braga’s performance is one of heart. Her portrayal as the daring Esmeralda is one that you can’t help but love, especially when sharing scenes with Quasimodo and Phoebus. “God Help The Outcasts” is her song and Braga owns it with mastery that will leave you moved.
Dami Shorte as Phoebus De Martin at first is the questionable captain, fresh from war. But soon Phoebus becomes the loveable counterpart of Esmerelda. Playing opposite of Braga, the two have electrifying chemistry that carries us through the story. An endearing romance blossoms and hope springs through especially in the duet “Someday”. Shorte commands the stage and gives a charming and at times playful performance as the loveable captain turned rebel.
Mike Guerriere is energetic as Clopin, the leader of the gypsies and leads us through the foot-tapping and nonstop fun “Topsy Turvy”. Declan Messics takes charge and delivers powerful vocals as Lieutenant Fredic Charius. Spencer Del Carmen delights and showcases beautiful range as St. Aphrodisius. Kaleb Bell delivers a striking and loveable performance as Jehan Frollo. Madisyn Bonilla’s Florika was a joy to watch and hear throughout the show. Mackenzie Alexander Hall was blissful as the strong Madame. Giovanni Failla’s King Louis XI was an unexpected joyful treat.
The entire cast was absolutely a prize to behold and every member of the Congregation and Choir created such an immersive and haunting atmosphere with credits going to Harrison Fox, Jacob Piccini, Daxton Chapell, Ava Boyd, Abby Murphy, Adrian Colon-Burgos, Audrey Wood, Auqinay Jones, Azalia Dos Santos, Eileen Lee, Maricel Wheatley, Melody Chen, Mia Quesada, Willa Maurette, Anja Bisignani, Brendan Hamadyk, Chase Rossanese, Chris Tempel, Cindy Cicconi-Ernst, Denise Long, Ella St. Pierre, Jameelah Gonzalez, Karen Castillo, Mickey Morales, Ryleigh Rios, Za’Yaughna O’Cain, and Tyler Alonge
Directed masterfully and powerfully by Darah Donaher who uses this piece as a way to hopefully leave the audience changed and begging the question of what can we change today. With Music Direction done perfectly and beautifully by Nick Conti by elevating Menken’s powerful composition like never heard before. And choreographed dynamically and energetically by Tina Williams who allowed the scenes to truly come alive with so much fire.
Be sure to check out other performances where Giovanni Marini will be stepping into the role of Claude Frollo on July 17, 19, 23, and 25.
Tickets are $25 for adults; $20 for seniors and $15 for students.
Performances are 7:30 p.m. July 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, and 25; and 2 p.m. July 19 and 26.
For information, call 484-484-3412, or click here.