Every time I see a show with puppets, I’m reminded just how much I love puppets, and how there should be more shows with puppets – and Same Time Next Week is no exception.
In its global premiere – this production delights audiences with its immersive and completely encapsulating world.
We follow a group of friends as they cope with their friend Mark’s leukaemia diagnosis – whose final wish is to play Dungeons and Dragons. As someone who knows only vaguely about the world of D and D I was apprehensive going in that I would not be able to fully appreciate the story but boy was I wrong.
At the centre of the show is Mark – portrayed by Nick Pages-Oliver – who navigates his diagnosis with sincerity. He brings grace and leadership to the wise bird Vincenzo the Magnificent.
Amberly Cull is a driving force as dungeon master Drew – who also serves as a few key campaign players in the likes of Freya the bar keep and villain Lady Morinyth. An all-round talent, her vocal performance is a highlight, with a bright tone that makes for easy listening. Her solo ‘What’s So Good About Being Good’ a particular high point.
A personal favourite for this reviewer was Courtney Henri as Liz. Maybe it was her relatability as someone new to the world of D and D, but she quickly embraces her fierce character, Ophelia Backbrace, and is a joy to watch.
Tristan McInnes brings the laughs as D and D super fan Digby, whose Detective Smoked Meats is a treat. While Daniel Buckle nicely rounds out the story in a few fun cameo appearances.
Jackson Grigg’s original score really completes this show – with the folky whimsical themes helping transport audiences into a fantasy realm from the second, the lights go down. The catchy tunes are accompanied by fun lyrics from writer/director Scott McArdle with harmonies expertly executed under the guidance of Grace Johnson. A huge shout-out must go to the trio of musicians who also served as backing vocalists – a feat that did not go unnoticed.
The simple yet versatile set from Bryan Woltjen was effective in aiding the jump between fantasy and reality, with the added help of choice lighting cues by Kristie Smith.
And finally, we cannot go without mentioning the stars of the show – the charming puppets (also by Woltjen). Gorgeously crafted and mastered well by the actors (thanks to the direction of Cull and Pages-Oliver), they are the cherry on top of this musical cake that, once again, perfectly bridges the gap between the two worlds in which the show takes place. A pleasant surprise for (on the night of this performance) some unsuspecting patrons.
A short but sweet run – I can’t wait to see more from McArdle, who offers a smorgasbord of all the best bits of live theatre with’ Same Time Next Week’.
This review also appears on It’s On The House. Check out more reviews at Whats The Show to see what else is on in your town.
“You’re Never Fully Dressed Without A Smile” and attending the Chookas Entertainment production of Annie definitely added infinite smiles to myself and every other person who attended last night’s performance. The Civic Theatre Playhouse venue allowed a personable, intimate performance and encouraged oodles of interaction and accolades from the audience.
For those unaware the story is set in New York City during the 1930s Great Depression. The musical production is based on Harold Gray’s daily comic strip “Little Orphan Annie” which debuted in 1924 in the New York Daily News. The engulfing theme is ‘hope’ in a trialing time of widespread poverty and hope for little abandoned Annie in her overly optimistic search for her parents. There is an overriding feeling that hope promises tomorrow “The sun will come out.”
Annie was played by Sage Brooks and she lit up the stage and the hearts of the audience. Her character delivery of Annie was sublime. Sage delivered Annie’s unwavering hope and optimism divinely. I was amazed at her unfaltering dedication to her character depth and the sheer amount of talent this young star beholds. She is a perfect candidate for Hollywood’s next movie remake of Annie.
Nicolette Black delivered a fabulous portrayal of the drunken, conniving Miss Hannigan with outstanding acting and vocal skills. Her impeccable comedic timing and subtle expressions were also thoroughly impressive.
DJ Konz was perfectly cast as Oliver Warbucks, providing a splendid portrayal of the self-discovering billionaire. DJ Konz showed a natural warmth in his stage presence and showcased his musical lustrous vocal abilities.
James Walker who brilliantly played Franklin Roosevelt has one of those warm, rich, melodic tones reminiscent of Christmas. My heart felt joyous every time he opened his mouth to sing.
I feel compelled to make a special mention of the character Molly performed by a seemingly very young Olivia King. What a superstar in the making! A triple threat singer, dancer and actor that stole the stage whenever she graced it.
All of the children in the ensemble gave a fabulous performance and their New York accents were ‘on point.’ Newcastle definitely has plenty of up and coming incredible talent.
The adult ensemble also delivered an energetic and vibrant performance. I particularly enjoyed the inclusion of tap dancing. The ensemble harmonies were ethereal especially in the finale number of “Tomorrow.”
The Music Director, Mathew Gallimore should be highly commended for his vocal and musical instruction. I thoroughly appreciated the unwavering, authentic character depictions throughout the vocal performances.
Music, sound and lighting were without fault and perfectly cued throughout. There was an excellent balance to the vocals and backing which I was overjoyed to hear.
Set designs and costuming were equally impressive, in particular the orphan costumes, down to their footwear, were perfectly authentic to the period. I found the set design of the beds to street doors conversion highly effective.
Congratulations to the director Danny Folpp, Maddie Watts (Choreographer and assistant Director) and Jody Miller (Producer) you should be beaming with pride at your brilliant achievement in bringing this fabulous production of “Annie” to Newcastle. ‘Chookas’ to the remaining of your performances.
Chookas’ “Annie” production will continue to run in the Civic Playhouse until the 14th of September, with multiple shows and times to suit. It is very reasonably priced at only $59 for adults and $39 for children. I urge you to get your tickets now if there are any remaining. Chookas’ production of “Annie” will guarantee you a night filled with joyous, heartfelt moments and plentiful laughs.
Once a year… it’s time for ‘Stars and the Moon Theatre’ to celebrate the stage with their intoxicating Musical Inclusical.
This year it is Wednesday and her kooky family who gather at the Alexander Theatre telling a gripping adventure with swordfights, potions, explosions, and scarier still, family dinners.
Director Lauren McKinnon, Musical Director Charlotte Greenslade, and Choreographer Benjamin Curé, together with an award-winning creative team, have brought the iconic Addams Family to life and it’s WAY better than good.
Stars and the Moon (STaM) is a unique ALL-ABILITIES theatre company. Their castmate model pairs performers with and without disabilities to support each other to make moving and accessible theatre with, not despite, their diversity. It is absolutely AMAZING! At first I did wonder “how will this work”, being on stage together as two people playing one character for all the roles in the show, but IT WORKS and dare I say it as my daughter agreed; we thought it was better than just one person.
Joining the contagious double-clap engages us immediately in the music we know so well… BA DA DA DUM… ‘click click’ and then ‘When You’re an Addams’ kicks in, I almost want to jump up to bunny hop and twist with them all giving quite the spooktacular opening.
So fantastic how they introduced all the “Ancestors” who complete the show atmosphere in strange and deranged costume sets of themes like cavemen, sailors, prisoners, clowns, ballerinas etc etc etc. Such fun and clearly this cast ensemble were loving the experience too. And the make-up, oh the make-up!
The set, the lighting and the energy from everyone on stage is so enthusiastic and who wouldn’t want to shake it with Cousin ITT – my favourite costume of seemingly bodylength dreadlocks, but can the Addam’s family be ‘normal’ for one night?
I’ve always loved the Gomez and Morticia characters. Gomez’ expression on everything is spot on, he’s so entertaining and Morticia is impeccable in her mannerisms and her unique ‘blackness’. Sometimes loving each other to bits and sometimes having a few marital issues, all four bounce off each other as if the roles were made for four people instead of two. The concept is again, genius!
The one-liners keep coming…. I’m still laughing at the hilarious mention of Scomo to Covid 19 and Morticia in the bedroom…
Wednesday as we all know has come into her own fame these days and it must’ve been a thrill to be cast as her – she is everything she should be and might be getting married… or will she? The acting by these girls is very good and they will keep you enthralled.
Pugsley took me back to watching him on The Addams Family re-runs as a kid and his electric chair face, ‘eeeek’… all he wants is for his sister to continue the torture…
The startling appearance of THING at the dining table was timed well and FULL DISCLOSURE showed off overwhelmingly impressive vocal talents – Alice, the mother of Lucas who might marry Wednesday, belting it out and standing on the table (a surprising move for her character) got applause that would’ve woken the dead!
Lurch and Uncle Fester were brilliant and could have stepped straight out of the TV series … they really have got all of this right and everyone plays their parts so well to intertwine this story of family differences.
So, will Gomez’ daughter Wednesday and Mal’s son Lucas tie the knot? Scenes throughout the show are full of comic emotion and messages about how to work things out, but if it all fails, well death is just around the corner to look forward to anyway.
This show was nothing like I expected. Yes, I knew it would be good as I had heard the STaM shows were high standard, but this? I did not expect a show where they could easily play in any theatre in Melbourne and still get a no-hesitation full-standing ovation from even the toughest critics. These people on stage are incredible, they absolutely crush the meaning of ‘all-abilities’, every single one of them – and their abilities as a group, WOW WOW WOW!!
My final note therefore are words from Grandma Addams “stop tik tokking and pick up a book” or grab a script – whoever you are – get into Theatre!
When I wrote this review there were very few tickets left and now they are SOLD OUT, so don’t miss their next show and check out INSTAGRAM @starsandthemoon_theatre or website https://www.starsandthemoon.org/
Theatre notes: Sign language is provided on the side stage with this show and the theatre caters for wheelchair access of course. Performers in wheelchairs are on stage too – remember, this is an ALL abilities show like no other!
Even though I did not personally know anyone in the show, I felt an immense sense of proudness on what this special theatre company had accomplished as they took their bows. Supporting the arts is so important, but supporting all-abilities in the arts, let’s champion these efforts.
Congratulations to the ENTIRE CAST & TEAM:
WEDNESDAY – Ruby Alford & Thanh-Tuok Autran LUCAS – Alexander Gilbert & Dimitri Gosios GOMEZ – Gabe Harari & Max Nunes Cesar MORTICIA – Aisha Sivac & Lizzie Locke UNCLE FESTER – Mark J Rintoull & Zac Parkes PUGSLEY – Kade Groves & Meg Heathcote GRANDMA – Jodi Sanders & Nixy Antmann ALICE – Ashleigh Cole & Ellie Goldenberg MAL – Bailey & Tal Ellinson LURCH – Gilbert Esse & Joseph Folwell THING – Jaimie Chapman & Viv Kane COUSIN ITT – Zac Chester & Benji Arndt
ANCESTORS – Amy Tapp, Tamara Stanton, Asher Stanton, Brendan Saffer, Michaela Sacho, Michelle Gauci, Charli Cantoni-Bud, Lyndall Peachman, Ciara Wilson, Bille Ream, Daniel Kraus, Claudia Nanovich, Hope Challis, Monique Lustig, Uri Lowinger, Alice Johnson, Mia Penso, Adam Geller, Mark Polonsky, Conor Wilson, Theodora Tran, Cameron Miller, Kahli Anquetil-Kneale, Tahli McLean, Carlia Slade, Danni Miller, Dani Filip, Devin Goralsky, Ella Dunne Riseley, Netanel Morris, William Jasper, Lexi Kelsall, Zoe Better, Cheryl Plaut, Ebony May, Sally Elliott, Amit Shahar, Kate Skinner, Ryan Wilson. Stage Manager: Ari Mosberg, Cast Manager: Tyla Manager, Front of House: Netanel Morris, Set Designer: Harry Gill, Costume Designer: Jessamine Moffett, Lighting Designer: Sidney Younger.
THE ADDAMS FAMILY book is by Marshal Brickman and Rick Elice, MUSIC & LYRICS by Andrew Lippa, BASED ON CHARACTERS CREATED by Charles Addams.
This review also appears on It’s On The House. Check out more reviews at Whats The Show to see what else is on in your town.
Many in the audience will be familiar with the highly successful film, based on the book, starring Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood, but here we are now sitting in Melbourne’s Beaumaris Theatre for the musical version of The Bridges of Madison County.
As a fan of the movie, with a full house on opening night and being in this great little theatre again (where I did my very first review for ‘Whats The Show’), I can’t wait!
As the lights dimmed above our seats, I found the opening of the show very touching with the photographic screen rolling of times gone by and excellent live music accompaniment. This is the type of theatre where you don’t need to dress up or be knowledgeable on the Arts, we can all just sit back and relax to enjoy what is ahead. My husband really enjoyed the show and was so pleased he could wear his jeans and windcheater. Well, we are off to an Iowa farm…..
Set in 1965, the story is an intense, 4 day impromptu love affair between Francesca Johnson (Candice Sweetman), a beautiful Italian woman who married an American soldier to flee war-ravaged Italy, and National Geographic photographer, Robert Kincaid (Michael Gray), after he pulls into Fran’s driveway whilst her family are away at the State Fair.
Candice is just wonderful playing the main role of ‘Fran’, ‘Frannie’, “Francesca’ and ‘Mum’ depending on who is talking to her, and when she is singing her stage presence comes alive completely! Her eyes actually sparkle (good lighting effects or beautiful eyes – or both) and her smile lights up the stage, but when she is sad or reflective, her character’s emotions are felt with a tug of empathetic heart strings. I was transfixed in watching her in every scene, experiencing real love and real loss.
Michael as ‘Robert’ is perfection. He is of course the main male role but he’s also ‘the other guy’ because Fran is married to Bud (Adam Rafferty), and you can’t help but wonder throughout the show, should she or shouldn’t she? Who could resist Robert, he’s not only handsome and caring, he lives in the moment, tries not to think about things too much and travels the world – his life is far removed from Fran’s. What could they possibly have in common?
Whilst there is plenty of ‘oooo’ from the audience at the loving moments portrayed by the main characters, perhaps the ‘sexiest’ was performed with extra enthusiasm by Marge (Liz Catford), Fran’s envious neighbour. She is so funny and you’re definitely going to laugh! Especially when her hubby Charlie (John Tacey) steps in. At many times they prove themselves to be the most supportive neighbours.
Fran and Bud’s teen children Carolyn (Sienna Iscaro making her debut at Beaumaris) and Michael (Jordan Poyser) are absolutely fantastic talents x 2. If you have teenagers you will relate to them even more and they’ll give you hope too that teenagers aren’t always teenagers LOL, they do grow up! My favourite conversations were Michael’s with his Dad about driving the car (a conversation very like those that my husband sitting next to me and I have had with our 18 year old) and Carolyn’s nervousness being calmed by her Mum – Mum is always the one to call in a crisis, like when you are about to try and win ‘Steer of the Year’ with a cow you raised HAHA.
This musical is full of rich emotion about the choices we make and how they shape our lives. Internally yearning, as the day that Robert must leave approaches, Fran faces confusion and dilemma. Can she, in reality, abandon her children and loyal husband? Could there be a chance that such a spontaneous relationship with Robert would survive over time? Would it be worth the risk?
This show tells the past, the present and the future – you won’t be left wondering anything, it is a story you also are unlikely to forget. This performance will certainly stay with me far longer than the movie did as it is more in depth in explaining the emotions and timelines of everyone within.
I’ll give a quick shout out to the excellent ensemble too, as the ensemble in my mind always makes the whole show what it is – those little bits and pieces from them either in the background or foreground round out scenes to make them more memorable. My favourite was the waitress who obviously had her own opinion of how Robert and Fran should or should not be!
You must see this show if you are a fan of the story or anything remotely like it. It is truly captivating and the music and singing is beautiful with amazing voices, heartfelt lyrics and some very comical moments too. You will laugh and you will cry and you will relate to something or someone in almost every scene.
The show is running 9 – 24 August 2024 at Beaumaris Theatre, 82 Wells Road, easy to park in the surrounding streets. It’s a lovely little local theatre with mostly tiered seating (flat floor for rows AA-CC) and good access for wheelchairs too. Programs are provided along with a more than adequate canteen pre-arrival drinks and interval snacks.
Support local theatre and ENJOY!
Tickets via: www.trybooking.com/CSETI
MUSIC AND LYRICS BY JASON ROBERT BROWN | BOOK BY MARSHA NORMAN
BASED ON THE NOVEL BY ROBERT JAMES WALLER
DIRECTED BY COLIN ARMSTRONG | MUSICAL DIRECTION BY SUE FLETCHER
CAST: Francesca – Candice Sweetman Bud – Adam Rafferty Robert – Michael Gray Michael – Jordan Poyser Carolyn – Sienna Iscaro Marge – Liz Catford Charlie – John Tacey Marian & Young Francesca – Jessica Almery State Fair singer & Chiara – Amelia Little Ensemble – Daniel Ischia & Christine Wood
Photography credit: Pietro Giordano
This review also appears on It’s On The House. Check out more reviews at Whats The Show to see what else is on in your town.
