Morgan Hanna

The theater company did it again, folks! Natasha, Pierre, and the Comet of 1812 is a riveting play that had me on the edge of my seat throughout the entire show. With an adorable set, delightfully unexpected music, and a stunning vocal cast, this play was unforgettable.

The plot is taken from a 70-80 page excerpt of the novel War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy, while the play itself was written by Dave Malloy. The Comet of 1812 takes place in Moscow, where a young Natasha (Jessica Karczeski and Sophia Pajaro) and her cousin Sonya (Ginger Milbrodt) are brought in by Natasha's godmother Marya (Lauren Parker). While Natasha waits for her fiance Andrey (Amogh Patil) to return from the war, her eyes wander towards the city’s most charming (and married) man, Anatole (Elijah Moreno). This scandalous story takes wonderful twists and turns that will have you begging for more.

Easily the most entertaining aspect of the play was the singing. Since every line of dialogue is sung and not spoken, the actors had the chance to show off their vocal talent. Whether it be the angelic voice of the lead Jessica or the sultry singing of Zion Tawney, the house is always given the best singing performances in the district.

Of course, the show couldn’t have been half of what it was without the orchestra. The music kept you engaged in every scene, and the addition of modern techno music in a Regency-era setting was a pleasant surprise. I can’t end this review without mentioning the absolutely gorgeous lighting that enhanced the entire performance, and the beautiful yet simple set design, including the fake carefully constructed proscenium arch at the center of it all.

The WHS Theater Company always puts on the most spectacular plays with the best and brightest actors. I and many others can’t wait for the winter play, and I hope to see you in February for the premiere of Footloose!