An original musical born from the trenches of retail work, Shoptalk follows a group of 20-somethings navigating the particular horrors of their service-industry lives. The writer and creator behind this Thesperanto musical production shares how the autobiographical story balances comedic dialogue with surprisingly earnest musical numbers that get to the emotional core of service-industry survival.
Shoptalk: A New Musical
What is this musical about?
SHOPTALK is an original musical following a group of 20-somethings working in retail as they navigate burnout, workplace crushes, and eccentric clientele, all the while trying to deliver service with a smile.
What does this production bring to this musical that audiences may not have seen before?
This is an entirely original and autobiographical story that delivers a relatable and poignant sense of working-class catharsis not often available in a lot of works. You’ll laugh, you’ll cringe, and you’ll empathise!
Which number in the show is the one you cannot wait for audiences to experience?
There’s something for everyone in the score, but there is a “We Are the World”-inspired anthem sung by the more ungrateful characters that will likely be a real crowd-pleaser!
What has been the most challenging scene or sequence to stage?
The more people in the song, the more elaborate the harmonies are, and the same for the busier choreography! There’s one monstrous group number towards the end that’s had an especially long teething process, but it’s going to be fantastic once it’s nailed down.
How does the music serve the story in this production?
It’s interesting because while the dialogue and scenes are more comedic, the songs are a little more earnest and get to the emotional core of each situation, usually by demonstrating what a character has to lose at that time. It’s a wonderful balance, and don’t get me wrong, the songs will still have you laughing!
What character in the show do you think will surprise people the most?
Whichever one they connect with the most, I’m sure!
What is the emotional heart of this musical, and how have you approached it?
The emotional heart is the naive new girl who still believes that the world is good and that becoming jaded isn’t necessarily a good thing to do.
Who has the best costume, and is that fair?
Anyone not in one of the unflattering polos.
What will people be humming on the way to the car park?
No spoilers!
Who in the cast is most like their character, and who is least?
The casting process was magical because everyone brought an inherent quality already featured in their character. There’s really great synergy with every member of the company and their role.
What sort of person is going to absolutely love this show?
To recycle a similar dedication from the show, it certainly won’t be “anybody who’s had to take their business elsewhere”. Karens, stay home!
A huge thank you for sharing the journey behind this refreshingly relatable new work; here is hoping that monstrous group number comes together as brilliantly as planned. For anyone who has ever had to deliver service with a smile while dying inside, tickets are available through Lake Macquarie Performing Arts.
