musical

Roll up! Roll up! The Marvellous Elephant Man

Roll up! Roll up! For this is no ordinary show– The Marvellous Elephant Man The Musical is a colourful feast of sound and flair under the Sydney Spiegeltent at the EQ Moore Park that will keep you entranced.

The talented trio of writers and composers of this musical took additional roles onstage to showcase their versatility. Musical Director Sarah Nandagopan performed on the piano, Marc Lucchesi and Jayan Nandagopan acted and brought their instruments into the story via their characters.

The Marvellous Elephant Man brings us the story of John Merrick, a man who, in real life in the late 1800s, was the main attraction being paraded at the then-popular ‘freakshows’ in London. The musical breathes life into John’s story, and actor Ben Clark’s portrayal captures our hearts from the moment we see and hear him sing, most notably with the song “I Am Not An Animal”. In stark contrast to John’s kind heart and good nature is the dastardly wicked villain Dr Frederick Treves, played by award-winning actor Kanen Breen. In one scene with these two characters, Dr. Treves’ dialogue was so masterfully well-written and delivered with such malice it was heartbreaking!

Lighting designer Matthew Marshall did an outstanding job adding to the emotive drama in this scene. I noticed how his subtle choice of colour, blue – really highlighted how John was feeling. In another scene, the storytelling involved the most creative use of lighting and illusion I have ever seen on stage! You’ll know this scene when you watch the show; it’s the one with the strobe lighting!

The musical is layered with so many different elements – it’s difficult to pigeonhole The Marvellous Elephant Man into just one genre. There’s plenty of drama, mystery, and a possible love story between John and Nurse Hope, played by Annelise Hall, who created a character so sweet and believable you’ll fall in love with her too! Her singing was mesmerising.

Another major element of this musical was the side-splitting comedy woven into each scene. Writer and composer Marc Lucchesi’s theatrical debut is a standout show stealer. By playing three vastly different strong characters, complete with accents, he had the audience roaring with laughter with each song! The supporting cast were simply brilliant with their dancing, comedic timing and flamboyant costumes.

Some musicals stick to one time era. The songs in this musical were so cleverly composed that the soundtrack took the audience on a rollercoaster ride of songs, sampling being reminiscent of a 1920s bar to being at a vaudeville show to classic rock to being in Italy, and everything in between!

The trombone ‘elephant man’ motif, played by composer Jayan Nandagopan, created its own little story as it began the show with a sad elephant defeated stomp when we were first introduced to John Merrick. As the ‘elephant man’ began to gain confidence, so too did the trombone, becoming brighter in sound and tempo – such a wonderful way to communicate the character’s growth.

The Producer and Co-Directors Chris Mitchell and Guy Masterson have put together an outstanding cast and created a visual masterpiece with a huge voice. With each performance I am sure it is going places, up and away. When this musical is shown on Broadway, in the West End, and closer to home in our larger theatres, I will be so glad I got to be a part of its humble beginnings, on a small round stage in a bigtop tent at the Entertainment Quarter.

The Marvellous Elephant Man the Musical’s performance time is 2 hours and 20 minutes, including the interval time and proudly opened The Sydney Fringe Festival on September 1 2023.

Tickets are now on sale and showing at the Speigeltent Festival Garden – Sydney Spiegeltent The Entertainment Quarter from September 1 – October 1 2023

Evening performances 7.30pm Tuesday – Saturday; 7pm Sunday

Matinee performances 2pm Saturday; 1pm Sunday

Tickets: https://sydneyfringe.com/events/the-marvellous-elephant-man-the-musical/

This review also appears on It’s On The House.

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Time Warp your way to the Rocky Horror Show

This iconic cult classic musical is a whirlwind of wild energy from the “Science Fiction” opening strains to the show-stopping finale of “Time Warp”. It promotes self-expression and encourages people to show up, drop their inhibitions, let loose, and have fun. The show opened in Melbourne’s Atheneum Theatre on Wednesday 24th of May to a jump-out-of-your-seat audience, in anticipation of a great night at the theatre.

Originally, like the Little Shop of Horrors, this horror-comedy musical was released to negative reviews. It required an unconventional audience and midnight movie screenings to be appreciated for its campy humour, outrageous characters, and catchy music. It was also ahead of its time with themes of sexual liberation and gender fluidity and … well … times have finally caught up!

The story, in a nutshell, is about Brad (Ethan Jones) and Janet (Deirdre Khoo) who just got engaged when their car broke down during a storm, and they looked for shelter at a nearby peculiar castle. These two conservative and innocent characters became the unintended guests to the owner of the castle, the mad scientist, Dr. Frank N. Furter (Jason Donovan), which was where most of the fun took place! It was a particularly important night because Frank was in the midst of creating the perfect muscle man for himself, named Rocky (Loredo Malcolm). 

And so, when Brad and Janet were invited in, they met the castle’s bizarre inhabitants and whilst they were shocked and wanted to escape, they were trapped and later, drawn into the surreal world of unconventional seduction and highly sexually charged behaviour. What happened on stage blurred the boundaries between reality and fantasy and in no time, the couple transformed from conservative, vulnerable, and innocent to curious, confident, and sexually adventurous.

The cast selection for this show was perfect, and the characters gave the audience just the right feeling. For example, Donovan captured Frank’s flamboyant and powerful persona on stage. He created a polarising Frank, attracting those around him with his charm and repulsing them with manipulative, abusive behaviour. Stellar Perry was a fabulous Magenta (Dr Frank N Furter’s maid), she was mysterious, seductive, and loyal but also Perry conjured qualities of darkness, strength, and sarcasm. Riff Raff (Henry Rollo), Frank’s right-hand man, predictably appeared unpredictable on stage, with a wild mop of hair, a pale white face, and a mysterious quirkiness around his character.

Malcolm had the perfect “look“ for the model muscleman with athletic and acrobatic movements as he effortlessly spun, jumped and flipped on stage, showing off his physique. Myf Warhurst was the delightful Narrator. She was just plain charming! Her engagement with the audience was natural and spontaneous. Columbia (Darcey Eagle) was bright and sparkly on stage, fitting her free-spirited character and unconventional self-expression. Ellis Dolan doubled as Eddie and Dr Scott, transforming from a fierce tough guy to a conservative, serious, and no-nonsense doctor. Jones and Khoo created a fabulous transformation from innocence to debauchery, shedding their inhibitions along the way.

Whilst the set design was appropriate, representing light and innocence with a cartoon-like car and church at the start of the performance to the dark lair of the castle, sometimes the stage felt too small and cramped. Perhaps the set design and lighting could be enhanced to create the illusion of space. However, the phantoms formed an important visual spectacle, creating movement on stage, adding a sense of chaos and devotion to their master. Likewise, the live band added an extra element of engagement, they gave a dynamic performance for the catchy melodies, an essential part of the Rocky Horror Show’s appeal.

This production of the Rocky Horror Show, under the direction of Christopher Luscombe, is worth seeing if you want to be part of a unique, immersive theatrical experience. This shows run in Melbourne through to the middle of August before touring through Perth, the Gold Coast and Canberra for the rest of 2023.

This review also appears in On The House

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A Heartwarming Journey of Resilience and Hope

Driftwood The Musical takes us on an emotive and profound journey of 6 characters, immersed in the shadows of the Holocaust. Inspired by Eva de Jong-Duldig’s memoir “Driftwood – Escape and Survival through Art,” this theatre production by Tania de Jong AM weaves a captivating narrative centred around the extraordinary life of her grandmother, Slawa Horowitz-Duldig. It is a story of unwavering resilience, love, and determination, as displaced families float away like driftwood, from one country to another, fighting against the relentless challenges to stay together.

Slawa, (Tania de Jong AM) a talented artist lives with her husband, a sculptor Karl (Anton Berezin) and daughter Eva, (Bridget Costello). The story unfolds as Eva opens a gift from her father, a box of cherished memories – containing documents, letters and photographs, on her 18th birthday. Eva serves as a narrator sparking a quest for answers about her family’s history. The timelines seamlessly intertwine, transporting us between 1950s Australia and 1930s Austria, where Eva’s parents, navigate a life filled with art, love, and the shadows of impending darkness.

In 1938, Eva’s parents, the gifted artists, Karl and Slawa, basked in the joys of their creative pursuits in the vibrant city of Vienna. Their lives are enriched by the close bonds they share with Slawa’s sister, an actress, Rella, (Michaela Burger) and Karl’s brother, Ignaz. (Nelson Gardner). Amidst the blossoming of their talents, Slawa’s invention of the folding umbrella becomes a cause for celebration and excitement.

However, as the dark clouds of Nazi oppression loom over Europe, Karl seeks solace in Switzerland through his passion for tennis, hoping to escape. The family’s fate takes an unexpected turn as they are forced to flee to the distant shores of Singapore and eventually a camp in Victoria, separated from the world they once knew. The performances in Driftwood are nothing short of exceptional. The talented cast brings these complex and relatable characters to life with depth and authenticity. Bridget Costello’s portrayal of Eva is endearing, capturing the character’s growth and transformation with grace and emotional nuance. Anton Berezin delivers a captivating performance as Karl Duldig, conveying both the vulnerability and the unwavering determination of his character.

Tania de Jong AM’s portrayal of her grandmother – Slawa Horowitz-Duldig is deeply moving, showcasing her remarkable vocal talent and heartfelt connection to the character. Michaela Burger shines as Rella, displaying a profound emotional depth and radiating warmth that lights up the stage. Nelson Gardner’s versatility in multiple roles is awe-inspiring, thus showcasing his immense talent and ability to seamlessly transform into different characters. The entire ensemble shines with their passionate performances, creating a harmonious and emotionally charged experience.

Under the masterful direction of Gary Abrahams, Driftwood unfolds with seamless precision, striking a delicate balance of joy and heartache. The enchanting music, composed by Anthony Barnhill, provides a rich and emotional backdrop to the story. The set design by Jacob Battista is evocative and versatile, transporting us to different times and places with ease. The use of projections on a large screen, shaped like a torn paper, adds a visual dimension, immersing the audience in the historical context of the story.

Driftwood the Musical is more than just a show; it is a powerful and poignant journey that lingers long after the final applause. It reminds us of the invincible human spirit, the importance of preserving our stories, and the resilience that can be found in the darkest of times. This production is a testament to the transformative power of theatre and the enduring impact of a well-crafted and deeply emotive story.

Whether you’re a fan of musical theatre or simply seeking an unforgettable and thought-provoking experience, Driftwood is a must-see production that will leave you moved, inspired and filled with renewed hope, as you hold a melody in your heart.

Driftwood The Musical is playing in Prahran at the Chapel Off Chapel till 20th May, followed by seasons in Sydney.

For more information visit https://driftwoodthemusical.com.au/

This review also appears in On The House

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Not Finished With You Yet – Review

Not Finished With You Yet is an energetic romp through a world where governments have passed a mandatory divorce law meaning all marriages must end after 13 years. Written and Composed by Dick Gross AM, the world premiere of this new Australian musical plays at The Alex Theatre in St Kilda as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Two hours of upbeat entertainment unfolds as the characters explore what it means for their marriages, and how to navigate the new territory the law presents them with. Most couples willingly embrace the law with overt enthusiasm and a hefty dollop of marital passive aggressiveness. While main characters Kate and Rupert march resolutely, but resentfully, towards a future that demands they separate at the cost of their love.

All this is explored and celebrated through a hefty amount of choreography and over a dozen original songs.

Nothing Has Changed
Caffeinated Conversations

Upon walking into the theatre you are struck by the incredibly imaginative and engaging set design. Very few, myself included, are immune to not snapping a quick picture before they take their seats. Once the show starts the set comes alive as it morphs and transforms.

Hidden compartments subtly swallow costume changes, panels swing centre stage that only moments before were seemingly solid. Accordion panels become walls, doors, rooms and more. The stage itself is a supporting character that allows the audience to engage in the story unfolding. It is marvellously done.

Deft use of multimedia and imagery project onto the stage in specific and intelligently blocked patterns. It captures the audience’s curiosity and is seamless in its execution.

The characters are specific and the actors play them valiantly. Costume design is subtle, but nails its task as each character is embodied in the quirks of a french tucked top, the slink of a sexy fabric across the body or the effervescence of an outfit of a stressed-out teen. We know who the characters are, and what they value, by what they wear. The specificity that went into costume design shows high attention to detail, it is very much appreciated.

The story is easy to follow, with only a few lingering questions left unanswered. It does take suspending disbelief to enjoy this world, but as with most musicals, it’s worth it.

Hit The Bottle
No Singleton Blues

The performers are obviously operating at a high level in their craft and most have a definitive moment to shine in the show. Whether it’s Alexia Brinsley as Kate’s single sister Maria navigating each scene with commitment and aplomb, or Cristina D’Agostino as Betty seemingly, effortlessly, channelling Liza Minnelli in the ‘Hit the Bottle’ number – you won’t be disappointed. The women in this show Deliver with a capital ‘D’.

While whimsical in moments, Not Finished With You Yet is not for those with delicate sensibilities. The F-bomb is dropped at a rate Gordon Ramsey would be proud of. The show crams in various subject matter, from the suggested amount of lubricant for great sex for those in menopause, strap-ons, wombs for rent, drunken sex and quite literal toilet humour – not too much is left unexplored.

Memorable flashbacks from the show include the fun and frisky ‘Urinal Lamentation’ song as performed by Matthew Hamilton, Matt Heyward and Alec Gilbert, a grounded and believable performance by Lauren Gunson as 15-year-old daughter Ella, and a beautifully moving Shakespeare’s Sonnet 116 that delicately displays the cast’s harmonies.

Not Finished With You Yet is obvious in its Australian-isms, and an enjoyable frisky afternoon or evening at the theatre.

This review also appears in On The House

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Urinal Lamentation
Not Finished With You Yet Ensemble

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