The pop princess of the group was Alison, the perky college friend who sings about being “basic” and was played by Outstanding Performance in a Musical nominee Tess Barao with a healthy dose of hardcore quirk.
All six cast members are strong singers, actors and dancers and Kelsick with Tess Barao as her best friend radiate natural enthusiasm.
Barao is an “exceptionally talented” up-and-comer, according to Fallen Rock Productions. A recent graduate of Sheridan College’s Music Theatre Program, Barao has made a name for herself locally
I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention how wonderful Tess Barao and Colin Asuncion are in the roles of Maureen and Angel respectively. Barao is a tiny powerhouse with a huge voice while Asuncion, simply put by another audience member, is Angel.
Tess Barao plays Maddie’s college friend who is well, just a little bit ‘basic’. The character’s odd combination of quirkiness and edginess (with some liquid courage) is delightfully funny, and an unexpected verse in her song has the audience howling.
There were far too many performers to mention everyone, but I will praise a few that stood out to me. Tess Barao was impressive, with a belt that never quits.