The Little Big Company’s production of ‘The Mad Ones’, at Loading Dock Theatre in Darlinghurst, is a must -see new musical.
As soon as this show begins, the audience sees a red car (not to be confused with The Wiggles red car) on-stage. We immediately sense we’re in for a rollercoasrer ride.
‘The Mad Ones’, centres on Samantha Brown (Meg Robinson), a teenager in turmoil. On the brink of Ivory League acceptance, Samantha has lots of voices in her head. The more-than-best-friend, Kelly Manning (Teo Vergara), is passionate, impulsive and impatient. Adam (Ethan Malacaria), the boyfriend, wants to follow in his father’s footsteps of owning a tyre business. Academia is not on his radar. Samantha’s mother, Beverly Brown (Tisha R. Kelemen), wants her daughter to go to Harvard. Beverly does not approve of Samantha’s intense feelings for the less than academically-inclined Kelly.
The red car stays on-stage for the entire show. Bronwyn Dyer’s production team have created a great knock-about vehicle for the story. Of course, the obvious connections between motor vehicles and human emotions, resonate throughout. Breakdowns, being in the driver’s seat, living life in the rear-vision mirror and the need for drive in one’s life, are symbolic not corny. Getting in a car and driving away, leads itself to ultimate freedom. Samantha fails her driver’s test several times. Freedom is not easily attained.
There are eighteen powerful songs in ‘The Mad Ones’. All of the actors belt out these tunes with the necessary exuberance needed to match the feelings of love and grief, that envelope us. Sitting in the front row, I could see the real tears of Samantha and Kelly, as they try to navigate their path. Robinson and Vergara, are so believable in their roles. Both sing their lungs out and we rejoice. Adam is a slow-burn of a character. As the drama intensifies, Adam also breaks free of the shackles. Malacaria is in fine voice here too. Kelemen dazzles as Beverly. She thoroughly enjoys prancing around and causing turbulence.
‘The Mad Ones’, is a musical by Kait Kerrigan and Bree Lowdermilk. Based on an idea by Zach Altman and Bree Lowdermilk. Director, Sarah Campbell, has ensembled a brilliant cast. All the actors are in-sync and deliver stirring performances. The songs are accompanied by a vibrant band with Nicholas Till (Conductor & Keys 1), Jonathan Zhang (Keys 2), Annabella Chen (Violin) and Felix Staas (Guitar).
The venue for this production is the Loading Dock Theatre, which is situated in the old Darlinghurst Police Station. Cells have been transformed into art gallery-like installation spaces that trace the history of queer relationships. It’s an amazing building. The theatre foyer has cell windows as a provocative backdrop.
The audience on opening night, absolutely adored ‘The Mad Ones’. So many poignant lessons to be learned. Being swept up in these magnificent songs, one realises that there’s nothing more dangerous in life, than playing it safe. The synopsis quotes that it’s truly better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all.
This is a musical that deserves to be heard. You would be mad to miss it!
Oxford Falls Grammar’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was a grand glossy, decadently drizzled, deliciously complex and rich in flavour musical… oh yes, it was a sensational WhippleScrumptious Fudgemallow Delight of a production!
Based on the novel by Roald Dahl, the story of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has delighted children and adults alike for 62 years, since its publication in 1964. It’s no wonder that the eccentric (some may call him ‘crazy’) purple coated, top hat signature style, whimsical Willy Wonka found himself and his fellow characters in a musical, featuring an original score by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman and a book by David Greig. The musical also featured songs from the movie by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley.
This was a huge cast, with 21 main characters, 20 dancers and an immense 31 person ensemble sometimes having to be onstage all at the same time, notably for when the spoilt children meet their fates and the little Oompa Loompas appear to “help clear out” (I don’t think this review would contain any spoilers but if you have not read this novel or seen the musical, you wouldn’t know what an Oompa Loompa is, right?) Artistic Director Odessa R and Assistant Artistic Director & Stage Manager Megan G were tremendously talented in managing the large scope in putting this production on the stage.
The musical kicked off with the upbeat song, The Candy Man, as we are introduced to Willy Wonka played by Toby. After I had seen Toby perform this first song, I knew that the audience was in for a treat because of the way he introduced his character with quiet confidence and a little zany charm!
Charlie Bucket, played with pure sunshine-hearted goodness perfection by Grace, lives with her mum, played by Sierra and her four bedridden grandparents squeezed into bed, played by Christian, Zoe, Grace and Jack. Mrs Bucket works hard and is struggling to earn enough money to feed everyone. Sierra’s voice was showcased beautifully in a song, If Your Father Were Here, which she sings when Charlie is asleep, and when she dances with the memory of Charlie’s father, this added a quietly touching scene.
Soon we discover that Willy Wonka, after being mysteriously unseen for many years and his branded chocolate currently in the same way – unseen/ unsold – is now selling Wonka chocolate bars at a candy store near Charlie’s house. There is a new and exciting competition. Five Golden Tickets are hidden inside Wonka’s chocolate bar wrappers, and each Golden Ticket ensures the winner a tour into Willy Wonka’s factory and an opportunity to have a lifetime supply of chocolate! In quite a genius stroke of marketing, chocolate sales all over the world skyrocket with people scrambling to acquire a Golden Ticket, until all Wonka bars are sold out worldwide.
The announcements of the four winners are televised as the Candy Man shopkeeper (Toby) invites Charlie to watch each winner gloat over how they won their tickets. Jerry, played by Charlie and Cherry, played by Isabella, were the news announcers and carried the enthusiasm of the winners to the audience with pizazz.
The winners come from all over the world. The first winner is German child Augustus Gloop, played with cheerful hungriness by Xavier. His mum Mrs Gloop, lovingly played by Xenia, indulges her son in whatever he wishes. The ensemble’s German costumes added authenticity to the introduction of this initial lucky winner, with the song, More of Him to Love.
Veruca Salt, played by Caitlin is another winner from Russia. Alongside her father Mr Salt, played with a desperate-to-please-his-daughter stress by Nico, we see Veruca’s spoilt personality clearly with Caitlin’s performance of Veruca’s sharp demands, especially with the song When Veruca Says. I’m sure, not only me but many parents in the audience were cringing at her “I want!!” statements and feeling sorry for Veruca’s father. This wouldn’t be the first time that the audience would begin to appreciate our own wonderful children, as we meet the next 2 subsequent child winners and their outrageous personalities.
Pop diva wannabe American child Violet Beauregard, introduced with the song The Queen of Pop, is played by Poppy. She is the next winner and her father, the wealthy Mr Beauregard, played by Luka, panders to his spoilt daughter. Poppy held the stage as her character would, with her spoilt demands and her impressive dance moves.
The next winner, American Mike Teavee, played perfectly with the coolness of a teenager addicted to screens by Hilary, shook off all of Mrs Teavee’s attempts at affection with derisive looks and a swipe of the hand. I almost felt sorry for Mrs Teavee, played by Riley. Riley’s song That Little Man of Mine added to this feeling, although we do see hints of how Mrs Teavee has other addictions and how perhaps being addicted to something could run in the family.
After being blown away by the visual elements of this first act so far, and the dancing and energy of the spoilt children and pandering parents, it was an absolute contrast and joy to watch Charlie quietly unwrap a Wonka bar and be the final winner as she discovers the golden ticket. The audience was invested as we cheered Charlie’s discovery. I know I was beaming as Grace sang, “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket”. What a wonderful turn of the story to see Charlie run home and announce this exciting news to her family. It is here that Grandpa Joe gets the motivation to step out of bed (after 40 or so years!). Christian had the audience laughing as his wobbly knees slowly begin to work and he dances with Charlie and Mrs Bucket in celebration, even kicking his leg into the air – followed by him grasping his back!
The cast built up so much excitement and towards the end of the first act, there was genuine wonder for me as to how OFG was going to present the second act. I was looking forward to seeing inside Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, so much so that during the intermission I went out and bought a chocolate bar in anticipation! (Spoiler – it wasn’t a Wonka Bar, it was a Picnic, but I assumed it was because all Wonka bars had sold out).
The second act of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory didn’t slow down. It was filled with electric energy, stacks of humour and sometimes a little bit of kid-friendly horror as things begin to move forward and some elimination of candidates occur. I don’t want to say what happened in the second act. I will say that there was not one moment, which didn’t capture my attention. The dance sequences were phenomenal, with the cast moving in time together and showcasing their skills as a team. The three talented divas, Arrabella, Monah and Emma demonstrated their skills throughout the musical. Well done to choreographers Lauren T and Chelsea M for putting this together, to be so visually beautiful.
All the costumes, by co-producer Roxy M, were eye catching and clever in their design. As each winner was introduced, with the exception of Charlie, the ensemble appeared in complementary costumes that added to the character’s presence. Two standout costumes were Violet Beauregard’s suit after she snatched the three-course meal gum and popped it in her mouth against Willy Wonka’s wishes. I loved how Poppy cartwheeled across the stage in her purple puffed suit as though she was a rolling blueberry! The Oompa Loompa’s outfits were perfect, and the duo colour and stripes somehow made them look small.
The ever changing and colourful digital screens behind and either side of the stage, as well as the 3D print of the props, communicated to the audience exactly where the current scene was set. It was an impressive achievement by Dale D as every visual had so much to look at. The scene leading to Willy Wonka’s factory made me wonder what was inside there.
An integral part of a musical is the band and backing vocals. Oxford Falls Grammar had 22 extremely talented musicians and singers who carried the accompaniment and added sound effects throughout the whole performance. Situated at the base of the stage, the music was clear and beautifully executed, well done to all. Congratulations to Jimmy H, not only the conductor but also the co-producer and musical director of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. He has succeeded in creating a dynamic and rich heartfelt musical that appeals to people of all ages.
There is wonderment, a little touch of magic, many belly laughs and of course, a world of pure imagination in Oxford Falls Grammar’s production of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. It was difficult to believe that this was “only” a high school performance, as it reminded me of plays and musicals that I have reviewed, and given five stars to, in theatres around Sydney in the past. Given the remarkable effort that resulted in just three evening performances, I suggest considering a reprise at the end of the year. This could be advertised more widely and opened to the general public for ticket sales. I believe many people would be eager to attend and would greatly appreciate the incredible talent this school is contributing to the Northern Beaches community.
Bravo OFG, Bravo!
Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Approximately 3 hours, with a 20 minute intermission C3 Auditorium, Dreadnought Road, Oxford Falls 23 April 2026 – 25 April 2026
For all those Hollywood buffs out there, you may struggle to restrain any uncontrollable toe tapping and humming during the Garrick Theatre’s latest production, the ‘Musical Melody’. Anyone would understand if you burst into song during ‘I’m Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair’ (South Pacific), ‘Le Jazz Hot’ (Victor/Victoria) or ‘We Go Together’ (Grease).
However, there would be plenty of complaints if anyone interrupted Katie Nowland’s operatic performance of ‘Can’t Help Lovin’ Dat Man’, in a spellbinding rendition of the Show Boat tune. Other highlights include energetic performances of ‘The Tapioca’ (Thoroughly Modern Millie) and ‘Carrying The Banner’ (Newsies).
It was wonderful to see some familiar faces return to the stage, including Carly Ranger and Lily Wakeling from the Garrick’s Sweeney Todd 2025 production, as well as Kody Fellows (Narnia). From ‘Cursed’ returned Steph Hickey, Erin Shay Horrigan, Ethan Dal Molin and Ben Vaughan-Sanders (who will also be performing in the upcoming ‘The Playboy of the Western World’ production).
To debut on the Garrick’s seasoned stage are Kyla Retirado and Priom Bhattacharjee in their first forays into community theatre, alongside Fringe Festival regular James Carduff.
Who can forget to mention host Ian Staunton’s British banter in between acts? No doubt I’m not the only one who hopes to see him return to the Garrick’s well-trodden stage, in a blaze of theatrical glory.
Musical director Juliette Basini and director Tamar Basini also joined the cast with song and dance performances. Under their direction and choreography, the mother-daughter duo brought their love of Hollywood classics to the stage with ‘Kiss Me, Kate’, ‘Meet Me In St. Louis’, ‘My Fair Lady’, ‘The Pajama Game’, ‘Singing in the Rain’ and ‘The Boy Friend’.
Community theatre would never have the opportunity to sparkle without the creativity of those working behind the scenes. So, let’s shine some light on Astro Stewart (Stage Manager), Nera Camponovo (Production Liaison), Mark Nicholson (Lighting), Joe Hoedemaker (Lighting), Declan O’Brien (Sound), Paris Romano Jenner (Props & Photography), Kieran Smith (Photography), Roisin O’Neill (Choreography), Katie Nowland (Vocal warmups), Tamar Basini (Costumes) and Juliette Basini (Photography and Graphic Design). A special mention goes to theatre President Ali McNamara’s help with direction, and Yvonne Star and her front-of-house team.
The Musical Melody takes you on a chang-chang, changity, chang, shoo, bop journey through the ages. With only four shows, it’s no wonder it’s already sold out, featuring an incredibly talented cast whose delightful routines left the audience grinning from ear to ear.
Established in 1932, the Garrick Theatre is Perth’s longest-running community theatre group. Annual memberships are available, and if you’re a cherished member, then you would already know that next on the agenda is The Playboy of the Western World, with performances starting on 4th June 2026.
Upstage Theatre Company have surely upstaged some here with their current amazing production of Les Misérables. It is certainly up there with the best I’ve seen.
It may be difficult to find a better amateur production playing in suburbia right now and there are many excellent ones around. However you cannot go past the professionalism of this show. Highly skilled orchestra. Expertly designed and placed story-telling stage sets. Lighting working cohesively together with sound. Costuming complimenting every other aspect of the show. And, of course, an extensive cast who will have you feeling every ounce of the emotional turmoil lived in nineteenth century France.
Chains and crimes of the imprisoned and bleak futures of so many in peasantry are woven into a narrative for a musical like no other. A musical where everything is told by song. And such powerful songs at that. This is what theatre lovers simply call ‘Les Mis’
It goes unsaid Les Misérables is known the world over and back again. Step by step and song by song, settle down in your seat and take it all in…. This is live theatre at its best!
‘Jean Valjean’ is played by Ryan Purdy with instinct for his lead character magnificently realized on all levels. There’s no question when he opens with the words ‘What Have I Done?’ he’s got this!
Adrian Glaubert playing ‘Javert’ gives his ‘bucket list’ role everything, with noticeable presence on stage and depth in a psychological complexity required.
‘Fantine’ played by Jessica La Mari performs every inch of this coveted role superbly, her ‘I Dreamed a Dream’ gave me goose-bumps, and had the audience silenced before erupting in applause like there was going to be no other chance.
‘Eponine’ played by Alyssa Jandayan. Obvious young ambition here is going to see this girl on stages for a long time. Her ‘On My Own’ opening Act II nailed both song and expression.
‘Marius’ played by Nickolas Brown has really stepped up to greater heights since I saw him in his lead debut in The Pirate Queen; many more leads to come I think! Equally talented Olivia Falls playing ‘Cosette’ looked stunning with that famous long blonde crimped hair and again her costuming to compliment was spot on.
Felicity Eastwood as Madame Thenardier’ coupled with Matt Jakowenko as Thenardier’ are brilliant together, bloody brilliant!!! They’ll undoubtedly have you hating these loathsome characters, but their theatrics will have you in stitches.
Mike Armada gives ‘Enjolras’ a charismatic quality in one of his ‘dream roles’.
Accompanying roles played by Anthony Cirocco (Bishop/Fauchelevant) Daniel Chalmers (Foreman/Combeferre), Nick Sheridan (Courfeyrac), Joel Blashki (Joy/Jean Prouvaire), Chloe Neal (Claquesous), Brock Downie (Bamatbois/Montparnasse), Tom Acaro (Babet), Kenny Cheng (Brujon/Feuilly/Lesgles) are all very commendable and when paired with dramatic lighting effects, the fight scenes especially were well planned and executed.
It would be remiss not to mention the ensemble making the scenes extremely real and full of life, be it sad or happy, angry or tragic. Each individual wholly giving it their all in character all the time: Alannah Woods, Berny Hughes, Celeste Marinelli, Jessica Davy, Christine James, Stephanie Thao My Nguyen, Mia Knudson and Pippi Clarke whom I recognized immediately from her role in Upstage’s ‘Chicago’; there’s always incredible talent in the ensemble. Not just background actors, the ensemble make a show what it is on a grander scale and these people certainly did that 100 times over. ‘Master of the House’ for comedy and ‘Lovely Ladies’ for dancing were our favourites to watch you all – excellent!!
This production has talented youngsters among the cast too. I saw Maggie Lord as ‘Young Cosette’. This is a special role and I fondly remember my own daughter learning ‘Castle on a Cloud’ so it brought tears to my eyes watching Maggie sing it so beautifully – thankyou. I love how live theatre can do this and that personal re-visit made my day! (No doubt Daphne Tchantcho sharing the Young Cosette role also gives a memorable performance). Adding Alexis Hill to the junior cast as ‘Young Eponine’ she gave compelling confidence acting it out with her onstage mum, and 11year old Reuben Koronczyk was definitely the right fit to play ‘Gavroche’; funny, naughty and herosome all in one show! Shining as young ensemble members are Helayna Cirocco, Oscar Cirocco and Noah Glaubert – must be great to be amongst the stars in a show with your Dads on the same stage. Theatre gives children unique opportunities.
Congratulations to Director Cody Riker and team, Lana Kleesh (Movement Director), Anna Castle (Vocal Director), Scott J Hili (Prod Designer, Set and Costumes), Sam Victoria (Lighting), Malcolm McCaffery (Conductor), Simone Lim (Properties), Pete Oliver (Sound) – you have all produced a MUST-SEE!
As said by Upstage Theatre Company’s President Tim Warren-Smith, thank you for supporting community theatre. It truly means the world!
Les Misérables is playing at the impressive Tony Sheumack Centre, Beaconhills College, a huge relatively new school theatre with fantastic viewing from well tiered seats. I was grateful the Upstage welcoming team had someone guiding us from carpark and offered a free tea or coffee straight away on arrival coming in from the dismal rainy day outside – so thoughtful, and they had a great canteen for snacks.
Upstage Theatre Company’s next production is Jesus Christ Superstar in Sept/Oct. Auditions and information: Instagram @upstagetheatreco
