Following in the footsteps of Spring Awakening, Art In Motion Theatre Company has rounded out its 2026 season with another dark and emotionally charged show in Carrie - a production that can only be described as an exemplary directorial debut from Tashlin Church.
The show brings to life the eerie Stephen King tale of a relentlessly bullied high-school student who takes revenge on her classmates. The subject matter is undeniably confronting, and I found myself appalled at the cruelty shown towards the protagonist. However, the stage adaptation delights with a moody rock sound brought to life by a fantastic cast, filled with many new and returning faces both on stage and behind the scenes.
Community theatre debutante Macy Waldram stuns in the title role, navigating the difficult score with absolute ease and a beautiful tone, all the while maintaining White’s timid, naïve nature. Highly compelling to watch, I really look forward to seeing what she does next. Mary Carter is equally as impressive as Carrie’s foreboding mother Margaret, effortlessly playing well beyond her years but not at all looking out of place in the role - with strong vocals and acting chops to match.
Ella Monaghan is Chamberlain High School’s resident mean girl Chris Hargensen, giving a genuine portrayal of the sinister character and working well against Liam Tickner as the dim-witted Billy Nolan who provided some great laughs in his background moments.
A personal highlight was Ciara Malone as the empathetic Sue Snell, a role she sang with absolute perfection. Together with Archer Larwood as Tommy Ross, another great find, the pair shared wonderful chemistry, helping to shed a ray of light on an otherwise rather grim story.
While every actor gave a committed performance, I would encourage them all to ‘cheat out’ a bit more where possible, as I felt there was a lot of side profiling occurring, that limited the audience's ability to connect with characters throughout the show.
Performing in a venue typically known for its sound flaws, I must say this band, under the Musical Direction of Holly Harrison and Ruby Martin was outstanding - providing a slick and unified sound. Another pair of musical first-timers, their vocal direction is also to be commended with excellent ensemble vocal work - particularly in the opening number.
Jordan D’Arcy’s choreography was punchy and energetic, making good use of the space and multi-level set. I particularly enjoyed the volleyball moment early on the show which offered a creative visual element. I do wish the iconic ‘blood’ moment could’ve happened more centrally, but I am understanding of the confines of the space, and limitations that may have provided.
It was a shame programs weren’t available (I believe a miscommunication with the venue, as I was later sent a digital copy) as this cast and crew deserves its flowers and I hope this can be amended for the tail-end of the season. I did also question the choice for a company bow as I felt major players (particularly Carrie and her mother, if not the wider lead cast) deserved a moment for themselves, having done much of the heavy lifting for the show.
If you’re looking for a polished, well-executed and fiery production - this is it. I've really been impressed with AIM's entire 2026 programme, and Carrie continues the high standard they’ve set throughout the year. The entire production team is to be congratulated on putting on a truly amazing show, deserving of every ticket it sells.
To book tickets to Carrie The Musical, please visit https://linktr.ee/aimtheatreco.
Photographer: Jordan D'Arcy
