Fine Arts performs the Lizzie Borden show

BY MICHAELA DENNIS / Executive Producer

The Fine Arts department performed a show inspired by the true story of Lizzie Borden from Oct. 6 - 8. The show represented her life. Borden is known for brutally killing her entire family at a young age.

When I attended the show I did not know what to expect except I knew it was going to be a musical because the theater program marketed the show as a rock and roll musical. Additionally, I was very excited to see their production since I did not know much about Borden’s storyline.

The show began with all the characters introducing themselves and their connections to Lizzie Borden. I enjoyed this background knowledge because for viewers like myself who are not familiar with Borden’s story, it provided clarity and context to the plot.

As the storyline went on, the actors were more difficult to understand. Although every actor had strong vocals, it was hard to follow the storyline. I often had to rely on body language to understand what was happening in the play.

One scene in particular stood out the most. After Lizzie Borden’s stepmother is brutally murdered with an ax by Lizzie, it is immediately followed by another killing. This death involved Lizzie swinging an ax at what looked like a scarecrow pigeon.

 At this moment I was scrambling to understand what the singers were trying to explain about the scene.

Although I did not have a strong connection to watching the musical, I will say I did enjoy the effort that was put in by the theater department. The stage was decorated like a concert to compliment the rock and roll aesthetic.

 Despite my attending the last night of the show, the actresses, band, and behind-the-scenes crew gave the crowd and myself their all. From beginning to end, I was embraced by energetic music and passionate performances.

If I could have heard the dialogue clearer I would have enjoyed myself more.