PLEASANT GROVE — Alpine Community Theater’s The Prince of Egypt is an ambitious production that proves community theater can deliver an epic story full of heart, passion, and creativity. This was my first time seeing an Alpine Community Theater show, and it certainly won’t be my last. The amount of work and care poured into this production is clear, and the result is something beautiful. You can feel how much the cast loves the magic that comes from live theater.
Based on the DreamWorks film and a book by Philip LaZebnik, The Prince of Egypt features music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. Yes, this is the same Schwartz who composed the spectacular scores for Wicked (the 2024 movie and the 2003 stage production), as well as the unforgettable music from The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Pocahontas, Enchanted, Godspell, Pippin, Children of Eden, and more.
The Prince of Egypt tells the sweeping biblical story of Moses and Ramses—two brothers bound by love but ultimately divided by destiny. This production places their relationship at its emotional center, tracing how childhood camaraderie slowly transforms into jealousy and a tragic power struggle.
Director Laura Snyder’s staging is both creative and grand. The production makes full use of Liahona Preparatory Academy’s stage, featuring impressive set pieces designed by Aaron Arnesen: a golden chariot, a massive barge, a looming sphinx, and even a rotating turntable that keeps the action dynamic. The hieroglyphic walls and burning lanterns in the secret room where Moses and Ramses bond as brothers are visually striking. The well scene, in which Moses falls, is especially convincing, enhanced by immersive sound effects, the sound designed by Jeremy Sattler. The production is enhanced by the theater’s capable sound and lighting systems, though be warned: it is warm inside, so dress accordingly.
It was a nice touch to have different actors portray the teenage versions of Moses and Ramses—Sam Stevenson as young Moses and Joseph Omer as young Ramses—for the chariot race sequence. This choice helped illustrate how their brotherhood started at a young age, with a strong foundation. Together, they sang “Faster,” showing their shared joy before their paths diverged.
The entire cast delivers performances full of sincerity and commitment. Todd LeeMaster embodies Moses with humble confidence and a rich, soothing voice that commands attention. Brenton Ferrell’s Ramses is both sympathetic and imposing—a ruler torn between love for his brother and the weight of legacy. Their harmonies in “All I’ve Ever Wanted,” “Footprints on the Sand,” and “Always On My Side” are memorable moments, capturing the ache of two men caught between affection and duty.
Among the ensemble, Asia Fluckiger (Miriam) and Abigail Omer (Tzipporah) lead a stirring rendition of “When You Believe,” the show’s crown jewel. This powerful, emotional ballad is clearly a crowd favorite. Once the chorus joins in, it is nearly impossible not to shed a tear and feel inspired by the message that miracles can happen when you simply believe. Nefertari’s song, “Heartless,” was passionately sung by Netalia Masters. A young girl, carried in on Aaron’s shoulders and singing in Hebrew, is an especially moving part of the production.
Laura Snyder and Amanda Patrick’s choreography is consistently inventive and energetic. The dancers are truly one of the greatest strengths of this production—they become the plagues, the burning bush, the river turned to blood, and the vast desert itself. The red fabric waves transforming the Nile are both simple and stunning, and the parting of the sea with cascading curtains is a clever visual touch. The celebratory “Simcha!” at the end is pure joy, bursting with infectious energy.
Music director Suzana Garrett does an excellent job – vocals throughout were strong, and the cast poured heart and soul into every number. One minor quibble: the opening number, “Deliver Us,” feels vocally anemic from the ensemble, missing the force it needs to launch such an epic tale. However, Yocheved’s (Brooke Jordan) haunting solo and Young Miriam’s (Hannah Omer) clear voice help elevate the momentum so that the subsequent chorus numbers quickly find their footing.
The costume design, also by Snyder, adds another layer of richness, particularly Pharaoh Seti’s majestic armor and the dancers’ glittering red robes representing the burning bush. The death of Ramses and Nefertari’s child—signaled by the simple, elegant gesture of lifting a white sheet—is both tasteful and devastating.
The team at Alpine Community Theater has crafted something special—a show that demonstrates that when a community comes together with heart and dedication, the result can be unforgettable. Whether you come for the timeless story or the breathtaking songs, The Prince of Egypt delivers a moving night at the theater and is well worth seeing.
