Xanadu- Sanctuary Theater Company

Xanadu is a musical comedy that follows Kira, a Greek muse sent from Mount Olympus to inspire a struggling artist in 1980s Venice Beach. But when gods, mortals, forbidden love, and a dream of opening a roller disco collide—chaos, music, and divine hilarity ensue. Based on the cult classic film starring Olivia Newton-John and Gene Kelly, Xanadu is a whirlwind of glitter, pop culture, and self-aware comedy. With a hit-filled soundtrack featuring Electric Light Orchestra and John Farrar—including “Magic,” “Evil Woman,” and “Suddenly”—this show is part musical, part parody, and all-out fun.

Direction:

The show was directed and choreographed by Jake Anderson. Anderson played up all jokes in the show to make it a true parody. He made sure that when the muses talked together it was in perfect unison. He elevated the choreography for "I'm alive" by adding ribbons to it. The choreography for "Suddenly" had a lot of moments that brought laughs from the audience. The choreography for "Strange Magic" was crisp, well thought out, and hilarious. "Fool" choreography was well rehearsed and fun to watch. 

The show was music directed by Quinn Nielson. Nielson did a great job making sure Sonny and Kira blended together and sounded good together. "Magic" was vocally beautiful to listen to. "Suspended in Time" vocals were clear and a delight to listen to. 

Performances: 

Sonny Malone was played by Jake Oaklyn. Oaklyn played Sonny as a nerdy, lovable artist. His use of physicality was a great way to draw the audience into the story that was being told. It also helped add to the humor of the show.

Kira was played by Ever Lord. From the moment she stepped foot on stage she brought in a huge energy. She had a voice that was clear and a delight to listen to. Her Australian accent was on point and believable. When it came to her loving Sonny I believed it. 

Melpomene was played by Elizabeth Olson. Olson played her character big and bold. She had multiple funny moments of the night because of her physicality .

Calliope was played by Olivia Aszmann. Aszmann had a strong voice that was beautiful to listen to. Her character was strong and well established. Aszmann was also a strong dancer.

Design:

The set was constructed by Michael Thrall. Thrall took a very simple, but effective take to the set. There were Greek pillars in all four corners of the stage. The back walls had teal and black curtains. There were frames that hung on the wall that had colored rags that hung off of them. There was a flag over one of the stage doors that represented chalk mural. A fun effect that was created with that flag was that every time the door opened it sucked the flag back, adding a mystical feel every time the muses came in. (I don't know if this was purposeful, but I loved it.)

The costumer for the show was Jake Anderson. The muses wore colorful, greek feeling chitons. Sonny wore short shorts, a tank that said, "Let's get physical," and sweat bands. His outfit help set the setting that the show was placed in the 1980's. When Kira goes to earth there was the adding of pink leg warmers and brightly colored roller skates. 

The props masters for the show were Marie Nugter and Connie Beaty. The props for the show were simple, effective, and fit the time period. My favorite part of the night was a life sized unicorn that was in the style of a carousel horse.

About the Sanctuary Theater Company:

(all this information comes directly from their website) 

THE PLACE WHERE YOU CAN BE YOURSELF

The Sanctuary Theater Company mission is to provide a safe-haven for anyone and everyone to be able to be their authentic selves. We leave the labels and identities at the door and focus on the talent, stories, and magic that each individual brings to our performances. We believe everyone has magic inside of them and when you look beyond the outward appearances you find true talent and beauty. 

Blind casting is the heart and soul of the our company. During the audition process, anything that can even give a hint of who the person is such as name, gender, race etc... is eliminated. The production team will be hidden behind a curtain for the duration of the audition and will not see or meet the individuals until the first day of rehearsal. 

Theater is an art and can be very healing and life changing, we will protect and uphold our values in order to provide a magical environment where everyone is welcome, seen, and heard. Acceptance and Respect will be upheld and behavior outside of this will not be tolerated.

Final Impressions:

This was my first time making it to the Sanctuary Theater Company. They have created a safe space where actors of all types are welcome and casted in roles that they wouldn't normally have a chance to be in. Xanadu is quirky and had many laughs. Go check it out if you have a chance and enjoy this safe haven where you can go be yourself.

Tickets