Filled to the brim with gleaming cleverness, heart and humour, Candide is a mash up and or a crossover if you will of Opera and Musical Theatre. Drawing inspiration from European Operetta to Latin American dance rhythms.

With music by Leonard Bernstein and book by Hugh Wheeler. Candide tells the story of a young gentle man named Candide who, though pummeled and slapped in every direction by fate, clings desperately to the belief that he lives in “the best of all possible worlds.” Only to be taken on an adventure around the world to discover that contrary to the teachings of his distinguished tutor Dr Pangloss – all is not always for the best.

Victorian Opera’s production of Candide allowed Melbourne Audiences to be transported to “The Best of All Possible Worlds” in what was a thrilling new production, directed by Dean Bryant. Set and Costume designer Dann Barber and Lighting Designer Matt Scott transformed St Kilda’s grand Palais Theatre with an eccentric, decomposed elegant set and beautiful lighting. The symphonic magic of this delightful score was conjured by Maestro Benjamin Northey with Orchestra Victoria. On side note it was amazing to have the big, full orchestra up on stage and in view along with the powerful chorus and not in an orchestra pit down below the stage.

The mix of performers from operatic and music theatre backgrounds, all on stage were commendable to say the least ( I know I’m always blown away at the talent we have in Australia/Melbourne) Leading this production as Dr Pangloss and narrator Voltaire, Eddie Perfect delivers a unforgettable performance with his confident stage presence, comic flair, strong baritone voice and acting talent taking centre stage. In the title role Lyndon Watts captivated audiences with his warm, rich tenor voice and compelling range. Soprano Katherine Allen strutted and thrilled delightfully as Cunegonde. Euan Fistrovic Doidge played it up big time as Maximilian and was a personal highlight for me… I mean he was just having too much fun up there. Honourable mentions to Troy Sussman and Alexander Lewis who skipped through the multiple roles they needed to become, with great comic effect and obvious glee.

Candide combines a rollercoaster story with a passionate score into a piece that asks what it means to live a valuable life.

All in all though a short and sweet run I was delighted to have reviewed this.

x Steph

Photos by Charlie Kinross