There was a whole lotta’ shakin’ goin’ on Friday evening, as the Kent State School of Theatre and Dance opened the musical, “All Shook Up.”

The jukebox musical, which was originally written by Joe DiPietro, is inspired by and features some of the iconic music by Elvis Presley. The musical also has similar plot features seen in William Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night.”

The show follows “roaming roustabout” and undeniable ladies man, Chad (Zach Stark), as he rolls into a sleepy town that is in desperate need of some good love and music.

Here he meets Natalie (Matti-Lynn Chrisman), who he later falls in love with, and a slew of other unforgettable characters that all go through their own dynamic change.

This musical, directed and co-choreographed by Amy Fritsche, was consistently entertaining, engaging the audience in a funny, romantic and yet emotional tale.

Students in the School of Theatre and Dance, are remarkably talented. Each character, whether they were a lead role, or primarily in the ensemble, was clearly very well developed and practiced.

The character’s had such contagious life and energy, the audience was truly captivated by the performance on stage.

There is really nothing negative to be said about this performance. Opening night jitters aside, the cast and crew put together a very professional and energetic performance that displayed just how much time and effort went into the production.

From the vocals and choreography to the lighting and special effects, everything was seamless.

The show runs from Feb. 23-March 4 and you don’t want to miss this one. So lace up your blue suede shoes, and cruise on over to Stump Theatre to see our fellow Flashes get “All Shook Up.”

Maria McGinnis is an Entertainment Reviewer. Please contact her at [email protected].