Yale Artists Cabaret Delivers Dazzling Performance in ‘On the Verge’

The Yale Artists Cabaret showcased an impressive performance of “On the Verge” at the Off-Broadway Theater, drawing enthusiastic crowds for two sold-out shows on March 15 and 22, 2024. The production captivated audiences with a series of 16 powerful “crash out” numbers from well-known musicals, including Mamma Mia and Les Miserables. Co-directed by Benjamin Jimenez and Nneka Moweta, and produced by Abby Asmuth, the performance highlighted the students’ vocal talents and emotional depth.

In cabaret-style presentations, musical theater numbers often operate outside their original narratives, creating a unique experience for both performers and audience members. The concept of “crash out” songs allows performers to convey intense emotions and dramatic situations within a limited timeframe. This format presented a challenge for the cast, who had to effectively portray feelings ranging from heartbreak to internal conflict. The performers rose to the occasion, delivering powerful renditions that resonated with the audience.

As the lights dimmed, the emcee reminded everyone that the evening was a concert, prompting cheers from the crowd. Yet, the performers faced the added challenge of maintaining character amidst enthusiastic audience interactions. Although the support was uplifting, heckling occasionally disrupted the emotional atmosphere on stage. During one performance, Angel René delivered a poignant rendition of “Dust and Ashes” from Natasha, Pierre, & The Great Comet of 1812, only to be interrupted by an audience member’s playful quip, which, while humorous, detracted from the song’s intended anguish.

The opening number, “The Room Where it Happens” from Hamilton, stood out as a highlight. The directors playfully engaged in a mock struggle for control, with Jimenez portraying Aaron Burr and ultimately winning the solo. This clever introduction set the tone for the evening, creating palpable tension and drawing the audience into the unfolding narrative.

Throughout the performance, the choreography and staging effectively mirrored the original presentations, particularly in the opening number, where ensemble members encircled Jimenez, emphasizing his isolation amidst chaos. The cohesion of the performance, characterized by a shared theme of impending crisis, kept the audience engaged without overwhelming them. Each number maintained its distinct emotional resonance, even as the transitions between pieces occasionally felt abrupt.

For instance, moving from the intensity of “The Room Where it Happens” to “Dead Mom” from Beetlejuice, performed by Catinca Balasov, was a jarring shift in both tone and subject matter. Nevertheless, the performers navigated these transitions with skill. In “Therapy” from Tick, Tick… BOOM!, Pilar Bylinsky and Joseph Kayne delivered a rapid-fire dialogue that, while occasionally bordering on chaos, showcased their impressive timing and chemistry.

The vocal performance of Genesis Browne as Donna in the title track from Mamma Mia was particularly striking. The blue backlighting evoked the Greek island setting while allowing Browne to infuse the song with her unique artistry. Ad-libbing a moment of frustration, she engaged the audience directly, heightening the emotional stakes of her performance.

In solo performances from Les Miserables, both Ben Heller and Evie Kissinger delivered compelling interpretations. Kissinger’s haunting rendition of “I Dreamed a Dream” concluded with a poignant sense of resignation rather than anger, capturing the essence of her character’s despair. Meanwhile, Heller’s portrayal of Jean Valjean maintained a strong emotional connection with the audience despite friendly interruptions from his peers.

Closing the evening, Moweta’s performance of “They Just Keep Moving the Line” from the musical television series Smash delivered a subdued yet impactful finale. This choice balanced the earlier exuberance, leaving the audience with a sense of unresolved tension that resonated deeply.

Overall, the Yale Artists Cabaret’s “On the Verge” successfully conveyed a spectrum of emotions, showcasing the performers’ talent and dedication. Each cast member contributed to a cohesive narrative filled with both angst and artistry, making the production a memorable experience for all in attendance. The performers demonstrated remarkable poise, navigating both the challenges of live theater and the unpredictability of audience interaction with skill and passion.