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I-S presents ‘All Shook Up’

Musical April 15-17 at Iola-Scandinavia High School
By Holly Neumann


Iola-Scandinavia High School students will present “All Shook Up” at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 15-16, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 17.

Based on Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night,” but with a 1950s twist, the musical is under the direction of Johnathan Turba and Chelsea Liesch.

“After doing ‘Seussical’ and ‘Beauty and the Beast’, this show will create a new level of excitement with characters in a more realistic town setting,” Turba said. “Well, as realistic as a town that sings and dances exclusively to Elvis Presley music can be, which is an awesome reality to live in.”

Sam Jarosh, who plays Chad, and Clare Taylor, who plays Natalie, fill the lead roles.

Chad, the roustabout, is new to town, and from the minute he arrives, he starts to shake things up. With his leather jacket, hip-shakin’ dancing and smooth-talking, everyone in town is suddenly falling in love with one another.

Natalie, who is the town mechanic, quickly falls head-over-heels for the roustabout, but he doesn’t seem to notice her.

As more characters get caught up in the excitement, suddenly everyone’s falling in love, but Mayor Matilda, played by Natalie Rustad, will have nothing to do with it. She intends to keep the town in line.

The music arrangements will include a variety of songs by Elvis Presley.

Jarosh, who is a senior, believes that he fits his character’s role perfectly.

“I have always listened to music from the 1950s by artists such as Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, Bill Hailey and of course Elvis Presley,” said Jarosh. “My favorite part is when I sing “C’mon Everybody.” I’ve always considered that song to be one of my favorites and when I found out that I actually got to sing it, I was very excited. To me, it’s one of those scenes in the entire performance that really stands out.”

Taylor, a junior, added that everyone is having the time of their lives.

“With such well known music it is impossible to leave without a smile on your face,” she said.

Turba said there are several standout moments during the show.

“Some of the actors will surprise you with a voice you’ve never heard before,” he said. “Keep an eye on the background as well. Our students love adding authentic, detailed interaction to whatever scene they are in.”

New to the musical this year is the 12-piece pit crew.

“We used a recorded pit program the first two years, but this year we wanted to get the authentic rock sound right in the auditorium,” said Turba. “The pit sounds great and the energy they add to the show is incredible.”

Gio Fredheim plays the role of a townsperson and warden for the musical “All Shook Up.” Holly Neumann Photo

Ethan Dyb, who is a member of the pit, has enjoyed learning all the new music.

“It’s been a lot of fun,” he said. “I think it will give the audience a lot better experience with the live music.”

Without a doubt, All Shook Up has been a great experience for all of the 49 students involved.

“Being a part of a team and getting to see all the talent is exciting,” said Emily Bauer, who is part of the stage crew.

“I have been a part of all the musical productions that I-S has done over the past years,” said Taylor. “Every production has changed me. Having this experience with your peers, as well as our terrific teachers, is life changing.”

Tickets prices are $7 per person and advanced ticket purchases are recommended.

To buy tickets, visit the school website at www.iola.k12.wi.us. Information for the show, available seating and instructions on how to order are listed on the main page.

Tickets can also be ordered by calling the I-S High School office at 715-445-2411. Be sure to still go online to see what seats are available.

A brunch will take place prior to the Sunday, April 17, show from 12-1:30 p.m. in the I-S High School Commons. Tickets for the brunch are $5 and can be bought in advance or at the door.

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