“Gleek” or not, there’s plenty of understanding as to why Glee has become a TV sensation. The show combines a plot line of continuous drama — from high school students, teachers and parents — with musical gems polished by a range of talents. That’s exactly why Stephen Seay Productions and Rachael Houdek’s Cabaret have teamed up for Showstoppers: A Lesson in Show Tunes. The production was written by Tania Kelly, Christopher Jones and Jay Russell, and directed by Rachael Houdek and Ian Faires. But, can it do what Glee does? Yes and no. The show’s setting is in a high school where students and staff are under pressure to quickly organize and produce a musical revue, suitably called “Anything Glee Can Do...”. The result is peppier than a pep rally with students, teachers, administrators and lunch ladies lending their vocal chords to the occasion. You can expect to hear Broadway show tunes from Chicago, Jersey Boys, Next to Normal, The Sound of Music, Wicked and more. For tickets, call 704-372-1000 or visit www.carolinatix.org.
— Anita Overcash