'Bring It On: The Musical 'review: The Croswell’s latest is spirited, high-flying fun

Courtesy of The Croswell Opera House

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Before Lin-Manuel Miranda became a household name, he teamed up with composer Tom Kitt to craft a peppy, full-throttle musical inspired by the iconic 2000 cult film “Bring It On.” While this stage version veers sharply from the Kirsten Dunst movie you remember—plot, tone, and all—it still dives headfirst into the high-stakes world of competitive cheer. And though it might, on the surface, resemble your typical high school musical, The Croswell’s “Bring It On” is a gravity-defying good time, thanks to a spirited and versatile company ready to flip, twist, jump, and split their way into your heart.

Directed by Croswell regular Erin Pifer, whose resume of movie-inspired musicals includes “Footloose,” “School of Rock,” and “Mary Poppins,” this production is bursting with energy and athleticism. It seems Pifer has become the theater’s go-to for these crowd-pleasers (don’t be surprised if “Mean Girls” is next). Here, she helms a massive cast that doesn’t just sing and act: they tumble, lift, and stunt with the kind of synchronicity that’ll make you want to yell “Go team!”

Lydia Kirk leads the charge as Campbell, a high-achieving senior at Truman High who’s finally about to take the reins as cheer captain. She’s flanked by her hilarious besties Skylar (a razor-sharp Lily Gecher) and Kylar (Gabrielle Dunn, delightfully daffy). Everything's coming up pyramids for Campbell, until a last-minute redistricting fiasco lands her at Jackson High, a school with no cheer team (gasp!), a reputation for being rough around the edges, and a culture shock waiting at every turn.

Jeff Whitty’s book may start with a few familiar beats, teen angst, rivalries, friendship, but it snaps into shape once Campbell arrives at Jackson. Suddenly, it’s as if Miranda and Kitt have been unleashed. The infectious “Do Your Own Thing” kicks off a second act packed with fierce rhythms, rich harmonies, and Miranda’s signature lyrical swagger. The undeniable showstopper? “It’s All Happening,” a cheer-worthy explosion of rap battles, layered vocals, and teen spunk, performed with full-throttle commitment.

As Jackson’s reigning dance crew, Ziyaan Nurruddin, Talitha Thomas, and Sky Rodriguez slay as Danielle, Nautica, and La Cienega, each oozing charisma, precision, and confidence. These three become Campbell’s new tribe as she schemes to take down her former squad at Regionals, led by her new nemesis Eva (Bryce Lang, stealing every scene with impeccable timing and full Regina George energy).

Beyond the pom-poms, “Bring It On” delivers a thoughtful update to the source material. The original film touched on cultural appropriation but didn’t go far enough. The musical goes deeper: tackling privilege, identity, and inclusion. New characters like La Cienega (a trans student whose self-love radiates in every scene) bring heart and depth to a show that could’ve easily stuck to surface-level sparkle.

Rachel Ogger nails every comedic beat as Bridget, Campbell’s lovable misfit friend, who’s also sent to Jackson and finds an unexpected connection with the charming, goofy Twig (Bobby Lindsey). Marreon Washington (Cameron), Payton Sharpe (Steven), and Derrick McCullough (Randall) round out the crew, showing off slick rap skills and adding warmth and swagger to the show’s romantic threads.

And yes, let’s give a toe-touch round of applause to choreographer Debra Ross Calbrese and cheer coach Kelly Bailey, who worked extensively prepping this cast for the high-flying stunts on display. It’s a dizzying amount of movement, and they make it look effortless. Music directors Mandy Kruse and Josh Glover keep the complex score tight and punchy, while Doug Miller’s scenic work is polished. (I really enjoyed the subtle LED screen work that was used to mimic FaceTimes and internet searches, which added a modern touch without distracting from the action). Jen Brown’s costumes smartly reflect both schools’ personalities, from buttoned-up Truman to the trendsetting Jackson crew.

“Bring It On” was never going to be the Croswell season’s most deeply profound show, but it’s an adrenaline rush of a production: warm-hearted, wildly entertaining, and executed with precision. The cast sticks the landing, and the music will be stuck in your head for days. If you’re looking for a summer show that brings the pep, the punch, and the panache, this one’s got spirit, yes it does! 

IF YOU GO:

The Croswell’s production of BRING IT ON continues through July 20th. You can get your tickets here.