That Theatre Life

It’s automatic, It’s systematic, It’s hydromatic Why It’s greased lightnin.

Dazzling generations of fans with the high school romance of Danny Zuko and Sandy Dumbrowski. The story of Grease is one that has truly stood the test of time. And now this feel good, show stopper musical has hit Melbourne shores.

This new adaption produced by John Frost celebrates everything there is to love about Grease, from the 1950s flair to the exhilarating soundtrack we all know and love. This timeless musical will be sure to have you hand jiving down the isles.

The extensive set design by James Brownie is made up of two big grandstands and some high-reaching wall panels, a simple yet effective set up but one that is utilised to represent multiple locations. With that though, one thing I have to mention that didn’t work so well is that many of the scene changes are done by stage crew in full view of the audience and several of the set pieces take a long time to fall into place. This leads to the audience (myself included) being distracted at the start and or end of scenes and musical numbers.

Costume/ wig designs also by James Brownie are more successful – the costumes are eye popping, brightly coloured and very era believable and the wigs look amazing.

The chewing gum holding this all together though is the fabulous band led by Dave Skelton that drive the music along and it’s impossible not to tap your feet or dance in your seat. The songs truly define the musical.

The cast put together for this production are electrifying to say the least… All full of energy, In fine voice and actually look like teenagers and their respective parts. Some highlights for me were Annelise Hall perfectly captures the innocence of new girl Sandy. And her take on the beloved song “Hopelessly Devoted to You” is magical. Keanu Gonzalez as Kenickie is constantly magnetic and in fine voice. You can clearly tell he loves every minute of his devilish role particularly in the number “Greased Lightnin” Fast rising star Brianna Bishop shines again as flirty Marty, nailing every laugh and leaving a lasting impression with the number “Freddy, My Love” Mackenzie Dunn’s Rizzo is as equally impressive and brings the house down in “There are Worse Things I Could Do” The casting of music legend Marcia Hines as Teen Angel plays off brilliantly in “Beauty School Dropout”

If you’re looking for something to liven up your summer nights then Grease the musical sure won’t disappoint.

Grease the musical now plays at Her Majesty’s Theatre Melbourne until march 10th 2024 For Tickets or more information head to greasemusical.com.au

x Steph

Photos by Jeff Busby

THE LEGEND, THE ICON, THE KING! 

Many know the story of this outstanding talented artist that left the world too soon. ‘Elvis a Musical Revolution’ celebrates the life and story of the King of rock n roll Elvis Presley. Featuring over 40 beloved hit songs, through flashbacks of pivotal moments in his life and career starting from a young Elvis and his childhood in Mississippi all the way to his comeback special in 1968. 

Director Allister Smith succeeded in capturing the personal and emotional aspects of Elvis’ life, giving the audience a glimpse into the man behind the music. This added depth ensured ‘Elvis A Musical Revolution’ wasn’t just a tribute to an iconic artist but also a celebration of his humanity. 

The music is by far delivered as one of the most important factors for obvious reasons with this production. It is next level and a wonderful credit to an abundance of talent with an incredible team made up of Musical Director Daniel Puckey, Associate Music Director Adrian Szondy and Sound Designer Greg Ginger. The high energy and amazing Choreography by Michael Ralph seamlessly blended with the music, showcasing Elvis’ signature moves and ensuring that every member of the ensemble was engaged in the performance. 

The heart and soul of this production undoubtedly lies with the exceptionally talented and adaptable cast, who deliver flawless performances, transitioning between diverse roles within the production. Their swift changes of costumes and wigs enhance their adaptability. They synergize effectively as an ensemble, delivering breathtaking dance numbers. I also adored Matt Hayward, Ben Hall and Joti Gore in their respective roles. 

But stand outs for me would absolutely have to be Rob Mellett as Elvis. He could very well have put on a show paying tribute just singing and dancing and the audience would have been equally thrilled. Rob’s skill at impersonating the idolised figure is nothing short of astonishing. But it’s his ability to captivate and connect with the audience along with his incredible vocal range and confidant physicality that makes the show an electrifying experience. Kirby Burgess as Ann Margret and Marion is another standout showcasing her exceptional versatility and talent throughout the production. Juggling multiple roles (including assistant choreographer), Kirby proves to be an unstoppable force on stage. Her incredible dance sequences were a sight to behold. What set her apart for me though was her effortless changes between characters, flawlessly embodying the differences in each one. 

Final Thoughts? 

Elvis Presley paid an extremely high price for fame. His story is eventually tragic, but on this occasion we are thankfully spared having to go through those heartbreaking final days. What he left behind is endlessly inspiring and glorious. In ‘Elvis A Musical Revolution’, we are able to rekindle that magic. The standing ovation at the end is a testament to the show’s success in honouring the King, his enduring legacy and impactful story. 

Elvis A Musical Revolution is currently playing at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre until late December. For information, dates and ticketing visit www.elvisamusicalrevolution.com.au 

x Steph

Here we go again… Created by Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus of Abba, and written by British playwright Catherine Johnson, Mamma Mia has taken the Abba legacy into the future by reinventing the magic of the music hits into a stage musical that first opened in 1999.

With Elise McCann as Donna Sheridan, Sarah Krndija as Sophie and Deone Zanotto as the hilarious Tanya, this production is a party you won’t want to miss. Despite the fact that many audiences members were born well after Abba’s high point, the pop anthems interwoven with a sweet story of love and family still generates smiles, whoops and applause after every performance.

But for those who have seen the 2008 film but not the original stage version, you are in for a surprise. The simple set transports audiences to the Greek islands quite effectively. Colourful costuming and energetic choreography (board shorts and cut off jeans all the way) The ‘flipper’ sequence is a personal favourite among dance numbers.

Standout Performers are Deone Zanotto and Bianca Bruce as Donnas best friends and Sophie’s Aunts – They essentially steal most of the scenes they appear in. Sarah Krndija as Sophie is wonderfully engaging and a stunning vocalist.

Final Thoughts?

In true opening night fashion there was a delayed 10 minute start and to be completely honest I found the first half a bit slow going and not as engaging and popping as the second half. In the end though, Mamma Mia is a throughly enjoyable, amusing and at times emotional musical that really brings this story to life with the wonderful music of Abba. The encore/dance party with the whole cast at the end was spectacular and a great way to end the show, with everyone engaging, singing along and having a good time. It’s defiantly a one that can be seen and enjoyed by the whole family and if you’re an Abba fan, it’s also a must see musical with amazing performances, as we follow Sophie and co on this journey of discovery.

So what are you waiting for Melbourne? take a chance on Mamma Mia now playing at the Princess Theatre only until December.

Remember, the winner takes it all.

x Steph

“The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.”

Moulin Rouge The Musical has finally made it’s dazzling return to Melbourne, and everyones invited. Fans of the movie (or the Puccini Opera La Boheme, which inspired it) will be familiar with the shows story. Young naive songwriter Christian from Ohio arrives in Paris, Is caught up in the Bohemian movement and falls in love with the star of the Moulin Rouge, Satine. The love though reciprocated is difficult as Satine must court the rich Duke of Monroth so that he’ll save the Moulin Rouge from financial ruin.

It would be remiss of me to start this review without mentioning the phenomenal set designed by Derek McLane (it’s quite something to behold and reveals more and more detail the longer you look at it) From the moment you enter the theatre, the scene is set. You are now in Paris most exciting burlesque club, the Moulin Rouge, with red velvet drapes and chandeliers leaping out from the stage, a red windmill and a humongous blue elephant. It is worth taking your seat early to take this all in and not to mention the pre show entertainment as well.

The ensemble of this show is one of the most talented and hard working I’ve ever seen. The intense and dynamic choreography throughout the show was created by Sonya Tayeh, and this group work seamlessly to bring it to life. Catherine Zuber’s glittering, extravagant costumes set the scene beautifully.

The rest of the cast certainly do not disappoint and are more than worth their weight in diamonds. The Duke James Bryers gives exactly the kind of strangely alluring, soft-goth creep vibe you would want your single friends to steer well clear of. Simon Burke’s Harold Zilder was an absolute show stopper with many sassy one liners. It would appear the role was almost written for him. Bert Labonte and Ryan Gonzalez worked sensationally together as Toulouse-Lautrec and Santiago, It was a delight to watch them do what they do best. Alinta Chidzey as Satine sings like the true star she is, making a breathtaking entrance on a trapeze. That she can evoke emotional fragility from a Katy Perry song is impressive too. Des Flanagan as Christian shines with tortured grace supported by a voice that is as pristine as the Crystal studded gown Satine wears. Both main leads are stunning to watch and listen to.

For the amazing visuals and opening act alone, you’ll be can-can kicking yourself if you miss Moulin Rouge The Musical.

For tickets or more information visit moulinrougemusical.com

x Steph

There’s no greater joy than that seen through the eyes of a child, and there’s a little bit of a child in all of us.

Attending Disney On Ice really reminded me yet again, just how much I love the Disney movies (and Disney in general) and how many generations have like myself grown up loving them as well. It’s what you would call the origin of my love for musicals.

Presented by Feld Entertainment this years show is titled Disney On Ice: 100 Years of Wonder. Come on a journey through timeless stories with Mickey Mouse and pals as they go on a quest to rescue Tinker Bell from Captain Hook and restore the magic.

Some of our most favourite Disney characters take centre stage including but not limited to Belle from Beauty and the Beast, Miguel from Pixar Coco, Woody and Buzz Lightyear from Toy Story, Aladdin, Genie and Jasmine from Aladdin, Ariel from The Little Mermaid, Elsa, Anna, Kristoff and Olaf from Frozen, Moana and Maui from Moana. And of course where would the show be without none other than Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy.

At its core, Disney On Ice: 100 years of Wonder is an Ice Skating production that includes dance ,story telling, acrobatics, impressive aerial skills that leave you in awe and special effects to help bring these characters and stories to life. It is further helped by their fabulous costumes, So when you see them it’s like they have been taken directly from the films.

I was most gobsmacked by the talent of the cast. I’m not an expert, but the performers made the figure skating look effortless and flawless. They were able to interact with the audience as well- waving at the kids and coming close to the side of the arena.

As great and as popular as Frozen is, my favourite portions of the show were of The Little Mermaid and Moana. I will admit I choked up a bit when Ariel and Prince Eric were flying and dancing through the air to Kiss The Girl it was such a magical moment. Moana brought it home for me with it’s story of Fire and Water, and it’s songs ‘How Far I’ll Go’ and ‘You’re Welcome’ and it’s beautiful and endearing moments between Maui and Moana’s Grandmother.

There’s a lot to love about Disney On Ice: 100 years of Wonder and something everyone can take home and enjoy.

Disney On Ice: 100 years of Wonder is now playing at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne until the 2nd of July. For tickets or more information head to disneyonice.com.au

x Steph

It’s a rare treat to experience a world premiere production made in Melbourne and one that I believe shouldn’t be taken lightly. How truly lucky we are to have such incrediable talent here in Australia. And after more than eight years in the making ‘Midnight The Cinderella Musical’ is no exception.

With music and lyrics by John Foreman, Anthony Costanzo and featuring a song by Kate Miller-Heidke. Midnight is a charming, funny, modern, Australian twist of the classic fairy tale we all know and love, elevated to new heights for this day and age (directed by Dean Murphy and Pip Mushin) The attention to detail in the impressive set designs (James Browne) and smooth choreography (Kelly Aykers) is a real testament to the creative team behind this wonderful production.

“You discriminate against Princes – You’re a prince-ist!”

Tying up this Broadway scale Musical is the beloved, all star Australian cast featuring Brianna Bishop as feisty, passionate Ella. Thomas McGuane as Prince Charming, Lucy Durack is a delight as Ms Madrina Ellas Fairy Godmother and Mrs Lilliecroft, Triple threat musical theatre legend Matt Lee as Andre and Ella’s talking teddy bear, Shane Jacobson gives a cheerful and loving performance as the King and Verity Hunt-Ballard is deliciously wicked as Ellas Stepmother Madame Bellington. The stellar cast deliver exceptional performances with great heart, passion and comedic timing (where needed) showcasing their own unique strengths. However as far as I’m concerned it was Matt Lee as Andre and Ella’s talking teddy bear and Brianna Bishop as Ella that stole the show with their astonishing stage presence. You just couldn’t take your eyes off them whenever they were on stage and man does Brianna have a serious set of pipes.

Midnight introduces this beloved story with fresh adaptions to a new generation leaving audiences alike with a heartfelt smile.

x Steph

For more information or to secure your ticket visit midnightmusical.com.au

Everyone knows the tragic story of Romeo & Juliet but What if Juliet’s end was a new beginning? That’s the question this Juke Box style musical & Juliet answers by giving Juliet (Lorinda May Merrypor) a second chance at life. When Shakespeare (Rob Mills) is persuaded by his wife, Anne Hathaway Amy Lehpamer), to change Romeo and Juliet’s ending, Juliet goes on a wild trip from Verona to Paris with Anne, Her friend May (Jesse Dutlow) and Nurse (Casey Donovan). Things go array when an unlikely love triangle unfurls and Romeo (Blake Appelqvist) miraculously comes back to life.

Featuring the music of legendary pop songwriter Max Martin and with a book by the Emmy-winning writer of Schitt’s Creek, David West Read. & Juliet features iconic hits from Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, Katy Perry, The Weeknd and Kelly Clarkson.

Luke Sheppard’s direction and Jennifer Weber’s choreography are sky high in energy. Not relaxing the colour and movement for even a moment. With the amount of visual effects, scenic changes, costume changes, and confetti cannons, the staging borders on being over-produced but there is certainly plenty of bang for everyone’s buck. 

As much as the show feels directed toward a strongly young demographic — some of them possibly not even born yet when Backstreet were harmonizing their fire, or their one desire. The script makes several knowing nods, much like a Pixar movie, to the grown-ups in the room.

The role of Juliet is played by Lorinda May Merrypor. Clearly a star on the rise, Merrypor played the massive role as if it were totally her own, easily winning the audience over with her magnetism and sheer talent. 

With a charming stage presence, Rob Mills is a cheerily likeable lead as Will. Amy Lehpamer delights as Anne, quickly gaining audience affection and keeping them in her hand all night.

Jesse Dutlow (May), Yashith Fernando (François), and Blake Appelqvist (Romeo) are each excellent in their own way. Dutlow is particularly endearing as May, tenderly bringing the audience towards them with their sweet, sympathetic performance.

Casey Donovan has fabulous tricks up her sleeve as Juliet’s blossoming Nurse, Angélique. 

Finally, the most luxurious of casting comes in the form of musical theatre star Hayden Tee as Lance de Bois who with his rich warm vocals, perfect french acent & comedic timing leaves the audience (myself included) in histerics.

As close to a guaranteed good night out as can be had by young people in the theatre, & Juliet is set to usher countless new fans into a love of musical theatre. 

& Juliet is now playing at Melbournes Regent Theatre. For tickets & more information head to andJuliet.com.au

X Steph

Photo credit Daniel Boud

Three blind mice, three blind mice

See how they run, see how they run

They all ran after the farmer’s wife

She cut off their tails with a carving knife

Did you ever see such a sight in your life as three blind mice?

Written by Agatha Christie, this murder mystery has been playing continuously in London’s West End since 1952. Now theatre goers in Melbourne have the opportunity to experience The Mousetrap and discover for themselves why this stage play has been drawing audiences for 70 years.

The story takes place in Monkswell Manor outside London during a blizzard, a recently converted guesthouse owned by Mollie and Giles Ralston. (Anna O’Byrne and Alex Rathgeber) It’s their first day of business and prior to five guests arriving on a wintry evening it’s reported on the radio that a woman has been strangled in the area and police are searching for the suspect.

Anna O’Byrne and Alex Rathgeber (Giles and Mollie Ralston) work exceptionally well against each other and bring great depth to both characters. O’Byrne excels at bringing the tender and lighter sides out of Mollie, but delivers a great punch when needed, as does Rathgeber, who also brings a great sense of authority to the role. Laurence Boxhall is wonderful as the slightly abnormal Christopher Wren. Boxhall brings bucket loads to the character of Wren, giving him such depth and life. He brings so much light and shade to this role, often leaving the audience in fits of laughter. Adam Murphy (Major Metcalf) is strong and confident and commands an admirable stage presence. Gerry Connolly brings just the right levels of mystery to the role of Mr Paravicini and his accent work is exceptional. Connolly’s big personality is an asset to the role of Mr Paravicini, commanding attention whenever he enters the room.

The set for The Mousetrap is superb. Associate set designer, Isabel Hudson, has perfectly captured the beauty of an old English Manor, and her early 50s costume design is divine. 

Bubbling  with humour and drama, from the costuming to the crisp pace, this production is sheer period-drama delight.

So come and see if you can solve the mystery and identify the murderer. Like the millions who already know who did it, the answer is to be trapped inside like the mouse, and we’re not telling!

Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap is now playing at Melbournes Comedy Theatre but for a strictly limited season. 

For tickets and more information head to themousetrap.com.au 

x Steph

photos by Brian Geach

Based on the 1999 film starring Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon, and Selma Blair, Cruel Intentions the 90s musical doesn’t stray too far from the original film. As a film, Cruel Intentions treads a complicated path. This raunchy thriller about teens either having sex with each other, or trying to convince other people to have sex with them. The plot is somewhat simple, but involves the high school meanie Kathryn making a bet with her stepbrother Sebastian to sleep with the new headmaster’s daughter Annette, who is outspokenly “saving herself”. 

There are many other sub-plots concerning romantic entanglements, drugs, discrimination, and a gay relationship.

Wicked and incredibly risqué this musical isn’t intended for younger audiences and incorporates iconic songs from the 90s to aid in the storytelling. Music from popular artists including Natalie Imbruglia, Christina Aguilera, The Backstreet Boys, Melissa Etheridge, Ace Of Base and Britney Spears. 

Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical proves that you don’t need a flash bang set to make a good piece of theatre. A scaffold at the back of the stage that housed the band, four moving panels featuring large picture frames, two giant moving doors, two chairs and a couch was all it took to create the wide number of locations in the show. Adding to the simple set was the use of projection. The video design by Craig Wilkinson was excellent. It added a depth to the numbers in the show. The lighting design by Declan O’Neill was also well thought through. With the combination of the projection and lighting designs, it gave each number a ‘90s music video’ vibe.

Kirby Burgess (Kathryn Mertevil) is outstanding. Her mannerisms, voice, and characterisation are spot on. Vocally, Burgess moves between musical styles with such ease giving a great depth in her performance.

Equally impressive as Kathryn’s venal accomplice (Sebastian Valmont) Drew Weston is a stylish singer and dancer who’s not afraid to flaunt his almost nude buff bod in the services of art or seduction. Other stand outs are Sarah Krndija is a scream and delivers a very funny comedic performance as the enthusiastic and willing seductee of Kathryn & Sebastian’s cruel games. While Rishab Kern (Ronald) and Fem Belling (Cecile’s Mother) add a little bit of extra  as Cecile’s cello teacher, and the stitched-up mother.

This musical is defiantly for open-minded audiences and is definitely not suitable for prudes. 

Cruel Intentions the ’90s Musical plays at Athenaeum Theatre, Melbourne until 5th of  March 2023. For tickets visit cruelintentions.com.au 

x Steph

Photo credit Steven Grevis

“Winds in the East, mist coming in, like Somethin’ is brewin and bout to begin. Can’t put me finger on what lies in store, But I fear what’s to happen all happened before.”

Mary Poppins, Ever since that Prim and Proper, Clever, Musical and Magical nanny floated down to the Banks family doorstep and into our hearts, it has been a story that has been loved around the world by audiences of all ages.

Adapted from the beloved stories by PL Travers and the original film, the musical Mary Poppins takes elements from both to create the stage production. Although not a direct translation from the film there are a few musical adaptions created for this stage production. Audiences will be able to sing along to many of the timeless favourites including Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Feed the birds and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. New songs and additional music and lyrics have been created by George Stiles and Anthony Drew. including the now praised “Practically Perfect and “Anything Can Happen.”

This stage musical is Practically perfect from the moment the world’s favourite nanny takes a coat stand from her bag. The reimagined set design by Bob Crawley is imaginative. It is a very technical show, with complicated, but still swift, set transitions. Everything is full of colour and movement on an impressive scale. Crowley’s costumes are similarly full of detail, down to the tear in a brought to life doll’s seam. If there ever was a show that could transport you into a sense of childlike wonder and glee, it’s this one. Delightful performances, visually stunning sets, technical trickery and stunts that up themselves everytime, this is a well oiled machine with a sprinkle of what I like to say irresistible Disney magic.

The big production numbers like ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious’ and ‘Step in Time’ are also visually exciting and executed with flawless energy.

Stefanie Jones delivers especially prim and proper performance as Mary Poppins, always poised in her stance, with hands clasped and feet turned out, instantly recognisable as the character she is portraying. While Jack Chambers delivers a grounded and charming Bert, the tap-dancing chimney sweeping lamp lighter all the while bringing some much needed good natured larrikinism to the role. Audiences will sympathise and connect with Mrs Winifred Banks, played by Lucy Maunder who is struggling to run the Banks family without a nanny and without the support of her husband, George Banks, portrayed by Tom Wren.

I was going to mention the finale that has the audience on their feet. But i’ll allow you to experience that surprise yourself. It’s what Mary Poppins would want.

So Step In Time Melbourne as this must see production is now playing at Her Majesty’s Theatre and won’t be around forever. For tickets and more information head to marypoppinsmusical.com.au

x Steph

Photo credit Daniel Boud