Ride The Cyclone & Kholby Wardell: News & Insights
Is it possible for a musical to be both whimsical and deeply moving, exploring themes of identity, loss, and the search for meaning within the confines of the ordinary? Ride the Cyclone, a musical created in 2008, not only proves it possible but excels at it, offering audiences a unique and unforgettable theatrical experience.
Created with music, lyrics, and book by Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell, Ride the Cyclone initially debuted in 2008, captivating audiences with its unconventional narrative and memorable characters. The musical stands as the second installment in Richmond's "Uranium Teen Scream Trilogy," a series of three theatrical works set within the eccentric backdrop of Uranium City. While the other two works are still in development, Ride the Cyclone has solidified its place as a standout piece in contemporary musical theatre.
Name: | Kholby Wardell |
Known for: | Actor, Singer, Performer |
Role in Ride the Cyclone: | Noel Gruber |
Birthdate: | March 5th (Pisces) |
Hometown: | Vancouver, BC, Canada (Splits time between Victoria, BC, and Toronto, ON) |
Notable Performances: | Ride the Cyclone (various productions), Alliance Theatre Debut |
Key Song: | "Noel's Lament" |
Vocal Style: | Staccato, Precise Rhythm |
Inspiration: | dith Piaf, Anas Nin, Marlene Dietrich |
Reference: | IMDB |
The musical's narrative centers around the tragic fate of the St. Cassian Chamber Choir, a group of teenagers from Uranium City, Saskatchewan, who perish in a freak roller coaster accident. However, in a twist of fate, they are brought back to life in limbo, where they must compete for the chance to be the only one resurrected. Each character gets a moment in the spotlight, singing about their lives, dreams, and regrets, offering a poignant and often humorous exploration of adolescence and the human condition.
One of the most compelling characters in Ride the Cyclone is Noel Gruber, portrayed with exceptional skill by Kholby Wardell. Noel, a young man grappling with his identity and desires in a world he finds both confining and mundane, embodies the spirit of the musical. Wardell's performance is a masterclass in subtlety and emotional depth, with his interpretation of Noel's internal struggles resonating deeply with audiences. His portrayal captures Noel's wit, vulnerability, and the underlying longing for something more.
Noel Gruber's character offers a glimpse into the life of a young man who feels like an outsider, yearning for a life that extends beyond the ordinary. As the only gay individual in his village, Noel's character brings a sense of sourness which evokes one of the other character's declaration: you challenged my preconceived notion that all gay dudes are fun to be around!" This element adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, forcing us to confront stereotypes and consider the diverse experiences within the LGBTQ+ community. Through Noel, the musical explores themes of self-discovery, the pursuit of happiness, and the courage to be true to oneself, even when it's difficult.
The musical's development process involved several iterations, adapting and refining characters throughout. As the show evolved, Ricky, initially depicted as having a degenerative disease, had his backstory changed to that of a traumatic experience which led to him being mute. This adaptation, as discussed in social media commentary by Kholby Wardell himself, highlights the collaborative nature of the creative process and the actors' commitment to the authenticity of each role.
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One of the most celebrated moments in the musical is Noel's solo, "Noel's Lament," a poignant and introspective song that serves as a cabaret number illustrating his fantasy. This song gives audiences a profound look into Noel's soul, showcasing his dreams, desires, and the painful realities he faces. Wardell's rendition of the song is a highlight of the show, drawing inspiration from the vocal styles of iconic figures like dith Piaf, Anas Nin, and Marlene Dietrich. He "absolutely crushed this tribute," as one commentator put it.
The musical's success can be attributed to a talented cast, a captivating storyline, and memorable music. The original Chicago cast included the talents of Lillian Castillo, Karl Hamilton, Emily Rohm, and Kholby Wardell. When the production made its way to New York City, it featured those same talented actors along with Alex Wyse, Gus Halper, and more. These performers, along with others such as Taylor Louderman from "Peter Pan Live," brought the characters to life with genuine emotion and remarkable skill.
The song "Noel's Lament" offers a powerful glimpse into Noel Gruber's inner world. This exploration showcases the musical's ability to tackle complex themes, like identity and belonging, with sensitivity and artistry. The official audio recording of "Noel's Lament" provides an excellent listening experience, especially for those who haven't yet had the chance to witness the stage production. Its impact on the musical's storytelling is undeniable.
The musical, with its unique blend of humor, tragedy, and ultimately, hope, has garnered a devoted following. As the musical's popularity has grown, news of its cast and production has spread quickly. In a comment thread on TikTok, the character's evolution and portrayal were discussed, providing additional layers of meaning to the story. The world premiere cast recording, which came out on CD on December 3, 2021, provides a lasting testament to the musical's power.
Kholby Wardell, in particular, has received widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Noel Gruber. Wardell's talent extends beyond acting; he is also a skilled vocalist, known for his precise rhythm and a vocal style that draws the audience in. The vocal delivery of Noel's lines is an homage to the delivery style of many great singers. The staccato delivery of many lines, and the use of unexpected shifts in tone, help create a sense of unpredictability that holds the listener's attention. Wardell's ability to tap into the character's emotional core has made him a standout in the production. As Noel, Wardell sings about his life, offering a cabaret number illustrating his fantasy of what his life could have been.
The use of specific techniques, such as staccato vocal delivery and precise rhythm, further enhances the impact of the music and the character's expression. The songs build to surprise the listener, to attract and retain attention. The right hand imitates the vocal delivery by kholby wardell. The musical's success is a testament to the power of collaboration, with actors and creative teams coming together to build a unique and unforgettable experience for the audience.
The musical's ability to resonate with audiences can be credited to many factors: a compelling storyline, memorable characters, and a fantastic cast. The ensemble cast, including Karl Hamilton, Emily Rohm, and Kholby Wardell, bring the characters to life with heart and skill. The original Chicago cast members and the talents of the New York cast all contributed to the unique atmosphere of the show, which quickly gained a loyal audience. With each performance, the musical's themes of self-discovery, loss, and the search for meaning are explored with great emotion.
In addition to the cast, Rachel Rockwell directed a cast of young talent, helping them to bring the story to life. The character of Noel Gruber is an excellent example of this, as Wardell's performance has captivated audiences and received widespread praise. He has also been involved with the Alliance Theatre, as he was excited to make his Alliance Theatre debut. Kholby Wardell hails from Vancouver, BC, and splits his time between Victoria, BC and Toronto, ON.
In the world of musical theatre, Ride the Cyclone stands as a unique and powerful work. It reminds us of the importance of embracing our identities, cherishing our dreams, and finding beauty in the face of adversity. The legacy of Ride the Cyclone, and the memorable performance of Kholby Wardell as Noel Gruber, will continue to inspire and move audiences for years to come.
The show has a unique power that creates a lasting impact on anyone who experiences it, a testament to the power of art. With its themes of identity, loss, and the human condition, it offers a journey through the lives of ordinary individuals. From its catchy tunes to its emotional depth, Ride the Cyclone continues to remind us of the extraordinary within the ordinary.



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