Debra Campbell - Whats The Show

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

12/09/202612/09/2026 Debra Campbell🥇🔥🦉🎭🎶

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Rating

★★★★★

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In 1988, out came rave reviews from the critics for the movie of DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS.

I, nor my husband, have seen it on stage until tonight. So, after a lovely dinner next door at the Gracious Grace Cafe (highly recommend), we take our seats for the musical version playing currently at a reminiscent olde-world theatre in Lilydale.

The story is predominantly still about a comedic trio, what we’d not-so-politely call ‘scammers’ today, but this is a classic rendition much more exciting than a quick swipe stealing of your credit card or bank account warning. This is true art; a well-thought out and well-played in-person scam with a twist.

A suave British con artist ‘Lawrence Jameson’ brought sophisticatedly to life by Phil Lambert wearing the best high-class suits, devours the purses of wealthy women whilst living in a fancy mansion having had successful rich-tourist season assistance for years from the local Chief of Police.

In contrast, the unapologetic American ‘Freddie Benson’, a newcomer to the sun-drenched Beaumont-sur-Mer resort town, works his own style on gullible ladies who can less afford his attention. I can’t tell you how many times Rob Blowers steals the show here playing lovable larrikin Freddie with ease on comic timing and a definite natural acting ability to liven his character to the max.

Exceptionally well played by both actors; I observed ‘Lawrence’ on purpose watching ‘Freddie’ in some scenes and wondered how on earth Phil didn’t break his serious demeanor for even a split second at Rob’s hilariously acted antics. Experience shows, Phil is in his eighth show at his favourite Melbourne theatre and Rob is making his debut here but on the circuit for a decade – so both bound to asked back again. Sometimes I wish stage shows could also play ‘behind the scenes and bloopers’ like films do (maybe in the foyer afterwards). I’d love to see how much the cast laugh and if the Director can always keep a straight face. We certainly couldn’t between these two!

Anyway, two prospecting men after unsuspecting females enjoying the French Riviera at the same time soon becomes overly competitive for each to survive financially. A ‘winner takes all’ challenge is set, and the unhinged duo’s team target is aimed at the arriving Soap Queen ‘Christine Colgate’. Her father’s factory must produce the most popular washing powders and fabric softeners, she must be worth a bet of say….$50,000?

Whoever can convince Christine to part with her fortune will win! The losing swindler will walk away from their thefty tricks upon this ultra-luxurious territory.

‘Christine’ played with kind innocence by Madeleine Magetti (instantly recognized her voice from seeing her play the lead in Sweet Charity), is fantastic in this role allowing her to be two personalities in one with a switch up not everyone will see coming.

As with all shows holding space in a time gone by, I look forward to seeing all the clothing sourced for costuming. I particularly loved Christine’s pristine mint green dress, admired the trailing red satin gown and many pieces from this golden era in the opening numbers.

Gabi Bergman, one multi-talented performer for sure is shown off in her ‘western swing’ attire as ‘Jolene’ enthusiastically driving the song ‘Oklahoma?’ with plenty of smiles as the ensemble dance up chaos around her. This energy also gets a few gasps from onlookers to see the flexible talent of Phil as he spins Lawrence into a heel tap and toe before a high kick! What a scene!!

Woo-Hoo Phil, you’re an inspiration to my hubby who used to be a dancer, proof that everyone should just keep dancing for joy, or as my hubby said perhaps pulling a hamstring 😉

We laughed and laughed and there were so many scenes in which we did – the romantic night/morning between Andre and Muriel was a stand out with such clever lyrics, and Freddie’s ‘Great Big Stuff’ got a great big cheer from the audience. Many memorable lines from the movie are turned into these song and dance spectacles with the ensemble taking a large part to encompass the whole set – fabulously simple but effective in changing constant props. Whether it be a feather duster dancing around or a candlestick holder amusingly used, it all makes the show very creative with some ad-lib moments too (I’m pretty sure reference to Trump is not in the original script).

Surprisingly a romantic subplot between Lawrence’s crooked authority ally, ‘André’, played tongue-in-cheek perfectly by Tim Murphy, and character ‘Muriel’ portrayed with pzazz by Lauren Seymour, adds an extended side story all of its own.

When ‘Jolene’ entertainingly calls out Lawrence for far more than he bargains, hidden away ‘brother’ “Ruprecht” (alter-ego Freddie) comes to the rescue with Rob smashing out this quirky character equally.

Despite having some differences, and of course lots of songs added, the original story remains and is just as enjoyable in fun as the 1988 film.

This production of DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS is OK for all ages I think in today’s world (note there is one swear word yelled in fun and some even funnier suggestive innuendoes) but it will probably be especially popular with an older generation and anyone who loved the movie will be impressed.

Congratulations to:
Director: Alan Burrows
Musical Director: Mark Cluning
Choreographer: Nicole Kapiniaris-Anson
Asst. Director: Francesca Carl
Music Supervisor: Colin Prowasky
Set Designer: Barry Pearce
Lighting Designer: Deryk Hartwick
Costume Designer: Maria Smedes
Props: Gina Ingham & Steve Turner
Production Manager: Nicholas Ryan
Stage Manager: Steve Tanner
Asst. Stage Manager: Bella Da Silva

CAST
Lawrence – Phil Lambert
Freddie – Rob Blowers
Andre – Tim Murphy
Christine – Madeleine Magetti
Jolene – Gabi Bergman
Muriel – Lauren Seymour

ENSEMBLE
Gaynor Borlase
Abby James
Jess Lowman
Gary Barcham
Horatio Yen

DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS is playing NOW at the Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre from 10 – 26 September
Venue address: 39-41 Castella St, Lilydale, Victoria (free street parking). The theatre itself is adorned inside with historical stories to read about including the Dame Nellie Melba room – so interesting. They provide free tea/coffee and snack at interval, plus a complimentary pre-show and after-show drink.

Ticket link: www.lilydaleatc.com

Box Office tel.: (03) 9735 1777 if vouchers suit better as an excellent gift idea for the person who has everything!
Next show up is ONE MAN TWO GUVNORS playing 19 Nov – 5 Dec 2026

To book tickets to Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, please visit https://latc2020.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/152495.

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FABLES by Siren Heels Company

16/08/202616/08/2026 Debra Campbell🥇🔥🦉🎭🎶

Fables Rating

★★★★★

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The introduction over the mic for FABLES by the Siren Heels Company is “you’ll be hearing loud music so loud cheering please” and they got it!

This was my second time to see this now 2-years-in-production dance company specializing in high heels, founded by Peyton Leete, and how far she has successfully taken her vision since their inaugural performance in July 2024. New company members have joined and past favourites remain, all with tip top athletic artistry talent.

Act I ‘CULT’ opens with gothic ambience; perfect red lighting, candles and black hooded capes that flip back from covering the dancers’ faces untouched in one fast flick of their head. The costuming is immediately therefore impressive to say the least. If the cast chose their own black attire of mesh, lace, tops, tights, shorts, pants, skirts, in individual combos, they were then woven into complementary placements by the choreographer to create one of the best outfitted teams I’ve seen ever! The triangle formation was sheer brilliance and I didn’t see one dancer out of place in a lot of hard hitting beats.

There is an edgy sharp solo, a creative flowing white dress contemporary, Bollywood style moments and groups of three to ten engaging us appropriately ‘spellbound’ with Fables’ mythical themes and more, until a well-executed doom fall into the back curtain causes a bit of a gasp from our unsuspecting audience. We don’t need to worry, they are back swishing their scarves and the fallen dancer re-appears re-costumed in quick time. I love fun surprises like that in any show.

Act II – FAIREES has equally great costuming including floaty loose hair styles, pretty netting, pastel frills, pale flowers and petal throws.

Amazing acrobatics is combined into the storytelling and we simply dare not look away in case we miss something else spectacular!

Act III – SIRENS in their signature call and lead by Peyton herself, after an interval including a ‘witches’ drink on offer for all of us, has me recognize quite a few dancers I know and a couple my friend who is with me has also seen grow up on stage into the mature skilled performers they are today. We CONGRATULATE EVERYONE on their hard work!

Featuring live vocals into this dance collaborative by Hannah Canon, owner of Canon Dance House, and English-born Grace Kayll, brings the company’s show to a new level of entertainment. By adding Hannah’s breathtaking belt out and a soft sweetness from Grace, all bases were covered in them singing completely different styles of songs and they both had quite a few fans in the audience obviously.

This show is SSSSSsizzling, sultry, sexy, smooth and super strong from the screams to the silence. There were so many good items on the program that I literally cannot pick an absolute favourite, but I do love a maypole.

The finale with everyone on stage at the same time struck gold in precision on many aspects and having that many dancers about rolling into change of place lines was exceptional use of space and very well done, followed up with a fun chance to take a solo bow and a cheeky wink, kick, spin and smile.

For anyone with an interest in learning ‘heels’ dancing of various genres, I would definitely suggest checking out the opportunities Siren Heels Company offer and if you hang out to go to see a show with a difference keep an eye on their Instagram @sirenheelscompany

CAST
Peyton Leete (Creative Director)
Hannah Canon (Vocalist)
Grace Kayll (Vocalist)
Alex Som
Amanda Kour
Liam Sheppard
Jordan Spencer
Belle Dray
Jamie Unmack
Marisa Zapantis
Lily Kudeweh
Isabelle Walterfang
Britney Unmack
Rose Brennan
Beatrice Chiew
Tran Le
Nagisa Kenako
Adele Joan
Shenae Tenace
Eileen Zhou
Casia Vickery
Patti Chibi
Thanh Nguyen

Acknowledgement to @zil_visualmedia for promotions.

For more information on the Siren Heels Company, please visit @sirenheelscompany

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The Secret Garden

10/08/202610/08/2026 Debra Campbell🥇🔥🦉🎭🎶

The Secret Garden Rating

★★★★★

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A totally delightful evening was what my friend and I had going to see THE SECRET GARDEN at the cute Beaumaris Theatre. As soon as you step inside this special community venue you know you’re in for a good night. This was where I did my very first review too!

A popular novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, published as a book in 1911, the set in front of us includes a hidden garden, which will change from barren to beautiful, and be accompanied by very clever use of a spotlight as a tiny robin bird. Add the authentic period costuming for seven characters and an even more authentic early wheelchair for one of them, the use of everything is impressive overall from the solemn lighting dimmed in the introduction to a bright and happy end.

The friend I had with me tonight is very much a supporter of theatre and sees many professional and amateur productions, but she had not been to Beaumaris Theatre before; she was equally impressed and her quote for the evening was:
“Mary was an absolute standout, captivating stage presence”

I agree, young Winne Wilson-Phillips (who has just turned 11) playing ‘Mary’, was faultless in this lead role, with a massive amount of dialogue and in a mastered Yorkshire accent. Winnie’s character was all things; sullen, sad, mad, rude, friendly, mean, caring and entertaining! A great deal of emotions for a young actress who got involved in drama by chance only three years ago when her sister won a term class at BDC Drama that Winnie took over and has been hooked on ever since – easy to see why.

Playing ‘Colin’ is talented young actor Ben Solomon. A year 7 student, Ben also had many different emotions to display and he managed to convey both serious and comic lines within very short changing emotional intervals seamlessly. We all had a good laugh when he chastised Mrs Medlock, argued with Mary, ordered elderly gardener Ben around, and learned to move again with Dickon’s exercise help.

‘Dickon’ played by year 8 student Max Turner had an obvious strong confidence throughout. Complete with an animal (not real) on his arm or shoulder, his role was full of positivity for helping others. As I read in the program that Max has already worked professionally with Jessica Mauboy in the Australian film ‘Windcatcher’, and also enjoys screenwriting and making his own movies, I am sure there will be no limits for his bright future in the Arts.

Both Shelley Dunlop as ‘Martha’ (housemaid) and Caroline Kinnear as ‘Mrs Medlock’ (housekeeper) right from the very start were fun to watch. Splendid surprise, worry and shock were all part of their course in these characters looking after the children. I was pleased to see that Mrs Medlock was good-at-heart in the end, as Martha had told Mary in the beginning. Caroline did such a good job of keeping her stern until then and I had forgotten many details since I saw The Secret Garden as a child at the movies and read in the book when I was in school way back when…. let’s not go there, but I knew I loved the story.

I did remember in the end that there was a reunion for father and son. Simon Coles as ‘Mr Craven’ is so well suited to this role and I especially enjoyed the scene watching him return to discover the garden and Colin in good health. Every parent in the audience felt his words.

Dan Bellis as ‘Ben Weatherstaff’ was very funny, whether he was leaning over the garden wall or discussing matters of ‘rheumatics’ with the children, he got continuous laughter bursts from the audience even in unexpected moments purely from his crusty mannerism or awkward posture adjustment.

This show is all about the joy of a garden; the magic that life can bring – all happening in a magic little place in Beaumaris.

Go see and love it!

Congratulations to Director Kristina Doucouliagos, Assistant Director Alarna Summers, Stage Manager Sarah Gow, Set Designer Fred Pezzimenti, Scenic Artist Sally Fleming, Lighting Designer Joshua Gardner, Lighting Operator Sam Johnson, Spotlight Operator Hal Foxworthy, Composer Harrison Ewart-Dart and costumes by Jenni Osburn.

Thank you to Debbie Keyt, president of Beaumaris Theatre Committee, for your invitation.

More information: https://www.beaumaristheatre.com.au/

Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/au/event/1564158 playing until 22nd August

Instagram: @beaumaristheatre

The theatre is easy to find at 82 Wells Rd Beaumaris. Parking in the street. Canteen serves free tea and coffee with biscuits at interval and you can buy the usual popular choc-tops and other yummy stuff.

Side note recommendation: we had dinner prior at nearby ‘Creative Thai & Bar’

To book tickets to The Secret Garden, please visit https://www.beaumaristheatre.com.au/the-secret-garden.

Photographer: Pietro Giordano

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‘Aladdin’ by The Victorian State Ballet

06/08/202604/08/2026 Debra Campbell🥇🔥🦉🎭🎶

Aladdin Rating

★★★★★

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What a privilege to be invited to review the ballet of ALADDIN by Victorian State Ballet company performing at The Palais in St. Kilda, a grande dame of theatres.

Everyone likes to dress up for the ballet! It’s so beautiful to even enter the foyer and watch lots of excitement meeting friends, buying programs before eagerly being shown to seats. A couple of young girls in front of me had their best ‘ballet’ buns in and ballet ‘pink’ clothes on, one with a picture of Princess Jasmin on the front. Their mum obviously equally looking forward to the show, smiling at her children’s joy. I remember those days!

Classical ballet is a very special form of dance. Whether or not these young girls are inspired to become advanced ballet students or simply continue to enjoy the art of ballet in an audience, they’ll never forget coming along to a full length ballet for the first time. (I asked their Mum and her reply was when she had heard it was ‘Aladdin’ she had to take them even though it was a late night because they love the Disney story so much!). After the show they were both skipping, twirling and arabesqueing up the aisle. I wonder if they went to sleep dreaming of either becoming a princess or a ballerina?

Alanna Puddy as Princess Jasmin shines as a principal. Not only is her exceptional technical training at The Queensland Ballet PPY and Australian Conservatoire of Ballet evident, she has the ability to tell this well-known storyline clearly and convincingly. There is often a lot colorfully going on around her and she is completely focused in bringing Jasmin to life within each scene exactly like those girls in the audience expect. They giggled at the cute moment of Jasmin playing cards with Aladdin.

I never look at who is in the show prior to reviewing, so I am thrilled to see a past school buddy of my daughter’s playing the title role ‘Aladdin’, Michael Scott-Kahans. Michael studied here in Melbourne at VCASS in the full-time dance stream, then went on to train at Tanz Akademie Zurich and European School of Ballet. At 18 he was accepted into a contract with Alberta Ballet in Canada. As Aladdin, from stealing apples to a memorable solo, Michael is superb and his extensive training is highly noticeable. Impressive clean grand jetés and an acrobatic aerial from this guy too!

Tristan Gross as Jafar is excellent. Jafar is an interesting character isn’t he…. scary and calculating. Though in a ballet of course Tristan, as the expert artist he is (formerly of The West Australian Ballet and Royal New Zealand Ballet), has to relay these mindful exasperations of Jafar very differently from those who get to play the role in a musical or movie; only non-verbal expressions – he does very well indeed.

Dancing since he was 5 after commencing at Melbourne Dance Theatre, Daniel Sierra as The Genie is absolutely living the dream and what a lovable role to fill. I have watched Daniel before as a much younger dancer (VSB shows regularly tour to the suburbs and regional areas in Australia). He continues to build a strong presence on stage I recognize and no doubt has an equally strong future ahead of him. It was fun to watch him as Genie.

Belle Thorneycroft (Sapphire) has exceptional poise and elegance.

New Zealander, Courtney Taylor (Ruby) shows passion and an eye for detail right to her fingertips.

Maggie de Koning (Diamond) simply oozes love for this genre she performs outstandingly.

Grace Kefford (Emerald) is graceful and gorgeous.

Felix Milewski (Magic Carpet) loves to perform since his journey began as a child dancer with the Australian Ballet. Though you cannot ‘see’ him as the Magic Carpet, the ‘dancing’ carpet is a feature especially entertaining!

Charlotte Jones (Aladdin’s mother), a very lovely dancer, having been accepted into the prestigious English National Ballet School in London, stood out to me as one upcoming young lady to watch.

There are members in the corps of Victorian State Ballet who are amazing; extensions that defy the definition of flexible and their interactions with each other are suitably staged with spot on timing to create the whole picturesque scenes in very pretty costumes. I particularly liked the castle scene. A+

I overheard many positive comments after the applause finally subsided and I’ll note one in particular:

“was interesting how they changed the lighting to show off the costumes”

I agree, the lighting was used in co-ordination with the costume colours and settings super well!

Every dancer tonight created an impactful connection with their audience to tell the narrative about a poor boy who falls in love with a girl, finds a genie in a bottle, fights off a villain and eventually gets to marry her as a princess (“wedding scene had ‘cool’ drum music” my own daughter reported on way home).

It was magical to see Aladdin as a ballet. Thank-you all!

The Victorian State Ballet is a professional ballet company all ages can go along to enjoy and appreciate the art of ballet at an affordable ticket price, but still with quality and care of remarkable artistic talent.

Congratulations Martin Sierra (Artistic Director) and Michelle Cassar de Sierra (Choreographer & Co-director) and your entire team behind-the-scenes and on/side-stage.

To find out more see www.victorianstateballet.org.au

Instagram: @victorianstateballet

To book tickets to Aladdin, please visit https://www.victorianstateballet.org.au/tickets

Photographer: Sasha Kane

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