That Theatre Life

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

If you’re not moved by ‘A Christmas Carol’ (now playing at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre) then you just might well be a Scrooge. This stage adaptation of Charles Dickens’ time-honoured story is swiftly and engagingly told and the powerful emotional impact all the more impressive given the neatly brief nature of the storytelling. 

From the moment you enter the comedy theatre there is a magical atmosphere. There are hundreds of lanterns adorning the ceiling and dropping down on chains from on high, their numbers extending way beyond the stage, halfway across the theatre towards the audience. 

The cast is already assembled on stage, singing Christmas carols, eating, drinking, and socialising with the guests in the theatre. Mince pies and other treats are handed out to the audience and music is a constant presence throughout the play. A small band is placed in a box in the dress circle and at several points the cast sing gorgeous choral arrangements of classic Christmas carols, often adding a moving emotional depth to the story. This Christmas Carol is very, well, Christmassy, (yes it snows on stage) There is a comforting warmth and charm that radiates from the stage, and you can’t help being swept up in it all.

The stage is simple and highly effective in creating the sense of old England as it changes seamlessly from scene to scene.

There is a particular moment in act two in which the performance spills out to every corner of the theatre and there is audience participation on another level (I won’t spoil the fun by sharing more you’ll need to see it for yourself).

David Wenham is a superb Scrooge, crusty stale, dismissive, demanding, rude and initially seems more annoyed by the presence of his ghostly visitors than afraid. The moments with his younger self (Cameron Bajraktarevic-Hayward) and with Tiny Tim are particularly touching. Wenham fully embraces Scrooge’s change of heart and makes you believe that anyone can change just by the sparkle in his eyes and the spring in his step. It’s a wonderous transformation.

All in all this is a night of pure theatrical warmth and charm and as Tiny Tim would say “God bless us, every one”.

For tickets/more information head to christmascarolaustralia.com.au but hurry as ‘A Christmas Carol’ is only playing until December 29th 

x Steph

There is just something about Andrew Lloyd Webbers ‘Phantom Of The Opera’ that gets me every time. The score, The music, The characters and love story that can be taken in so many ways, The List goes on. I don’t know about you though? But i’ve always been team Phantom even if how he goes about getting what he wants is creepy and obsessive. I’ve grown to understand over time that the world has shut him out due to his deformity and looks. He’s clearly hurting and only longs for love and acceptance (like we all do) having found that in Christine as well as being able to share his music and make it come alive he latches onto her in hopes she will confide in him. Last night’s opening night of this production here in Melbourne was no exception and I fall in love all over again.

This reimagined version of this masterpiece overseen by producer Cameron Mackintosh and directed by Seth Sklar-Heyn was originally done in 2012 for touring through the UK and North America and has never been seen in Australia until now. And let me just say it’s visually stunning thanks to Jill Parkers rich costuming and Stefan Munsch hair and wig design. The sets by Paul Brown also add to the spectacle. All of which are beautifully imagined. The transition between sets and the movement is top notch and done with eze. I’m a big music lover so i’d be kidding myself if I didn’t mention the incredible 27 piece orchestra under the musical supervision of Guy Simpson bringing the already impressive score to life. It is just magic.

The three main leads Josh Piterman, Blake Bowden and Amy Manford absolutely steal the show. Josh Piterman (Phantom) having returned home after playing this iconic role in the West End is truly exceptional bringing what I feel is a breath of fresh air and heart to this character evoking a pity and sadness to his take on this role. Leaving the audience to feel the Phantoms pain as he try’s to gain Christine’s affection. Blake Bowden (Raoul) is equally impressive with his vocal warmth and charm giving the characters feelings for Christine a new depth. Amy Manford (Christine Daae) Brings grace, A new tenderness and strength to her role with spectacular soaring vocals that is sure to please. Balancing everything out and with some fine comic work is the highly experienced supporting cast and ensemble. Special mentions Paul Tabone (Piangi) and Guiseppina Grech (Carlotta)

From the glistening chandelier hanging above you, Right to the crashing down of it. It’s easy to see why Phantom is still loved by many today. But don’t just take my word for it go and see for yourself. Your angel of music is calling Melbourne.

Phantom Of The Opera is now playing at the Arts Centre Melbourne until 5th February 2023. To get tickets or for more info visit artscentremelbourne.com.au

x Steph

Photos by Daniel Boud

“Welcome to the 60s Melbourne” where the hair is big, the tunes are pumping, there’s a feel good energy and anything can happen. 

Beloved on the screen & the stage this production of the original Broadway musical doesn’t disappoint. Telling the story of teen Tracy Turnblad living an ordinary life in Baltimore, 1962. Her Mum, Edna, is a big woman whose youthful ambitions have gone nowhere, while Dad Wilbur owns a joke shop. Tracy dreams of being on the Corny Collins Show, a popular TV program on which nice white kids dance and sing – except once a month when it’s ‘negro day’. Despite producer Velma Von Tussle’s opposition, plus-sized Tracy joins the show through luck, force of will and the cool moves she learns from some African-American students at her highschool. She lives her dream – including getting romantic with the show’s hottie – while fighting for racial integration, and takes her Mum and best friend Penny along for the ride. 

The set celebrates mid-century TV with an American Bandstand-inspired studio and lots of cartoon styling. It’s achieved with amazing simplicity: mostly two-dimensional elements, jazzed up by strong lighting and patterned projections, and by costumes rich with often clashing colours and eye-popping patterns. From seamlessly switched sets to flawlessly done choreography, everything runs like clockwork, leaving you craving more of its infectious feel good energy.

Shane Jacobson absolutely nails the role of Edna bringing massive amounts of talent to the stage. And if I might add, it wouldn’t be an easy task for a male wearing the large wigs, costumes & heels that is required of Edna. Todd Mckenney complements Shane’s Edna perfectly. Their duet ‘You’re timeless to me’ is awe inspiring and a highlight of the show. Rob Mills adds just the right amount of over the top cheesiness as tv host Corny Collins and I’ll add truly shines up on stage. And let’s not forget making her professional musical theatre debut is Carmel Rodrigues as Tracy, a role she was clearly born to play… energetic, funny, top vocals. A perfect Tracy if you ask me. Other highlights include Javon King as seaweed and Asabi Goodman as motormouth Maybelle. 

Without a doubt, this show will have you smiling from ear to ear – it’s joyful, uplifting and even if you don’t already know the tunes, you’ll be singing and dancing along by the time the final curtain comes down. For tickets and more information visit hairspraymusical.com.au

x Steph

Based on the 1980 film which starred Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin, and Jane Fonda, the stage show which premiered in 2008 and recently opened in Melbourne, is a newer version of the workplace revenge comedy. Full of new songs by Dolly Parton and even an appearance in pre-recorded video messages to welcome you, set up the story, introduce us to the characters and at the end let us know where they all finish up.

This Female empowerment storyline follows office workers Violet (Marina Prior), the ‘too old to chase, too young to fire’ office manager, Judy (Casey Donovan) who ‘misses Dick’, her husband who left her for a younger woman and Dorelee (Erin Clare) the ‘Backwoods Barbie’, who is smart as a fox. All three woman find themselves at the receiving end of boss Franklin Hart Jnr’s (Eddie Perfect) sexist behaviour. Violet is passed over for promotion in favour of a man she’s trained, Judy told to call Franklin ‘Sir’ and Dorelee made to pick up pencils so he can gawk at her cleavage. The woman seek their revenge, and eventually realise their potential and dreams after Franklin is dispatched to Borneo by the company CEO.

Marina Prior draws on her large-scale musical theatre experience to invest in her character (Violet Newstead), with warmth and dignity. She sings and dances like the star she is, and doesn’t disappoint when it comes to nailing the comedy. Casey Donovan is a real delight as Judy Bernly. Having created a warm-hearted, huggable character and going from a struggling novice to strong, confident individual, then finally bringing the house down with her powerful rendition of Get Out and Stay Out. Equally impressive is Eddie Perfect with his big baritone speaking and singing voice and is wonderfully unpleasant as Franklin Hart Jnr. So easy to loathe in his funny, cleverly staged solo, Here for You. For me personally, at times Eddie gave me Gaston from Beauty and Beast vibes. Not to be outdone, the wonderful Caroline O’Conner, in what could of been a throw-away role as Hart’s faithful if equally unsuspectingly lustful secretary, Roz Keith. Caroline pulls out all stops and really does halt the show with her funny, energetic performance of Heart to Hart in which she reveals her secret crush for Franklin Hart Jnr.

Tom Rogers is responsible for the ever so wonderful 1980’s costumes, and the bright mobile setting which incorporates dozens of artificial television screens to allow Howard Hudson’s lighting design to flood the stage with colour.

9 to 5 with it’s show stopping performancs from it’s all star cast, it’s colourful sets and costumes, catchy songs and vigorous dancing guarantees an evening of light hearted and highly entertaining musical theatre. You’d be crazy to miss it.

9 to 5 is now playing at the Arts Centre, Melbourne until September 16th. Tickets and more information can be found at 9to5themusical.com.au

x Steph