- Mac Smith '12, Christopher McDonnell '14 and Nathan L'Etoile '12 elicit guffaws in the GDA's production of "Annie Get Your Gun."
By Stephen Morris.
The Gonzaga Dramatic Association’s production of Annie Get Your Gun opens with a bang as the diverse ensemble performs a vibrant rendition of the musical theater classic “There’s No Business Like Show Business.” Directed by recent Gonzaga Theatre Hall of Fame inductee Mr. Allan L’Etoile, the show soars to success on charm, humor, and well-timed balloon popping. Brian Ott ’12 stars as Frank Butler, a Midwest sharpshooting sensation, and Colleen L’Etoile (Georgetown Visitation ’12) has the title role of Annie Oakley, Butler’s spunky love interest and rival. The chemistry between L’Etoile and Ott is evident throughout both acts as they perform such Broadway favorites as “They Say It’s Wonderful” and “Anything You Can Do.”
The show’s ensemble, led by dance captains Brandon Johnson ’13 and Abigail Kilcullen (GV ’13), performs a myriad of colorful costume changes and provides added vocal vigor throughout. Turning out his best performance in his last GDA production, Nathan L’Etoile displays poise and comfort in the central and dynamic role of the traveling show’s manager. In addition, the 1999 revival off of which the GDA’s production is based also provides for ample comedic relief through the character of Chief Sitting Bull, whom Christopher McDonnell ’14 expertly portrays.
For those who have yet to experience the delight of the GDA’s final pre-renovation production, the show runs tonight, March 16, and tomorrow, March 17, with 7:30 pm start times.
