26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Ottawa Citizen
Cappies: West Carleton presents a wonderful adaptation of The Odyssey
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More who brought wonderful energy to the stage was Circe, acted by Sydney Fulcher. Through comedic timing and dead-pan expressions, whenever Fulcher was on stage, it was surely a sight to see. Whether it was Circe's dancing, casting spells, getting interviewed, or teaching Odysseus a lesson he'll never forget; Fulcher was effortless with tone control and delivery, flawlessly changing between carefree, nervous, and deadly serious. As well, Newt Davidson who played the Cyclops used strong facial expressions, and a powerful delivery for each line to showcase the Cyclops' power and control. Evil laughter and an interesting fascination with walls, conveyed a true embodiment of a character, effectively delivered by Davidson.
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Furthermore, Harrum Butt, as 'the stage manager,' was delightfully humourous, and executed each line with immaculate comedic timing. Butt portrayed the stereotypically nervous and timid backstage manager through jocular facial expressions and line delivery. Soldier Colson, played by Colson Puchala, was delightfully dynamic with full body acting, putting everything into each word and phrase.
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All in all, West Carleton Secondary School's production of The Odyssey was truly a sight to see, and especially a good laugh. With strong actors, and flawless stage management, it was unquestionably a play to remember.
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The West Carleton Secondary School production was reviewed by 24 critics representing 6 schools. The critic discussions were mentored by teacher Erin Hand of St. Mark High School and student reviews were edited and selected for publication by teacher Adrian Darling of Merivale High School, who could see only the reviews, not the names or schools of the reviewers.
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The Citizen and 23 high schools are participating in the Cappies, a Washington, program that uses high school critics to review high school theatre. The program is a unique partnership between the Ottawa Citizen, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board and the Ottawa Catholic School Board. Two schools from other boards in the region and two private schools have also joined. The Cappies season culminates with an awards Gala in June graciously hosted by the National Arts Centre. Follow Canada's Capital Cappies on Instagram @OttawaCappies.
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