NEWS & REVIEWS

With the first note of her introductory solo, "It Roars," it is apparent that the audience is in the presence of euphonious vocal greatness -- and "It Roars" was the least impressive song that Shaw sang. Shaw's voice is clean and clear, like the sheltered and trusting character she plays, even when she belts out the high notes, which she does with comfortable aplomb.

Cady Heron, played by Natalie Shaw, was onstage for most of the show. She ran non-stop, carrying demanding vocals throughout the performance. Shaw managed to carry the music healthily and with beautiful connection between phrases and notes. Her character was easy to connect with, and she created a version of the character that made poor decisions, but owned up to her actions and remedied what she could. 

Shaw is adorable as the gawky Cady, and her powerful vocals give an extra little oomph to songs like “It Roars,” “Stupid With Love,” and “Fearless.” With snappy one-liners and fiery energy as she bounces from one musical number to the next, Shaw brings dynamic physicality and flawless technique to her performance. 

One of the night’s cleverest numbers came from Natalie Shaw, who mashed up Dolly Parton’s iconic “Jolene” with Beyoncé’s reimagined version. The result was a dynamic new story told using two people's perspectives, that paid tribute to the song’s legacy while injecting it with a whole new power. Shaw moved between the two vocal styles effortlessly. It was smart, interesting, and completely original.