Picture this: a meteor has crashed and landed in your peaceful town, and a horrible illness is slowly infecting the townsfolk, causing them to face one of life’s greatest horrors – singing and dancing as if they were in a musical.
This is the basis of StarKid Productions’ ‘The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals’ – brought to life for the very first time in Western Australia by Art In Motion Theatre Company.
Joshua Hollander is the titular ‘Guy’ – also known as Paul Matthews – with the remaining cast work to bring to life a sea of characters as he navigates this world-ending disaster. By his side is the equally normal Emma Perkins, portrayed by Escher Roe. The pair work well as the show ‘simpletons’ in contrast to the other more exuberant characters.
Among the other ever-changing roles, Brittany Isaia shines as Paul’s co-worker Charlotte in a hilarious performance. A WA Starkid veteran, she has certainly found her niche. She’s coupled well against Blair Price-Morgan as Ted, a great young talent whom I look forward to seeing more of in the future.
Attempting to cure the mysterious disease is Artorius Emanuel as Professor Hidgens, whose ‘show-stopping number’ was a crowd favorite.
Clayton van Dijk brings nervous energy to Bill Woodward, with Georgia McGivern rounding out the group in a number of smaller roles and bringing great energy to the stage.
A personal highlight was Mathew Leak’s performance as both Mr Davidson and Sam Sweetly. Not only was his vocal performance strong, but Leak’s pure enthusiasm and joy simply radiated from the stage, and I couldn’t help but smile whenever he entered a scene.
On the note of enthusiasm, the amount of passion in the room—both on stage and in the audience—was really special. It’s no secret that StarKid has a cult following, and it was duly noted how captivated audience members were to finally see this show in person for the first time locally.
Also to be commended is the band, who are note perfect under the guidance of Zac Skelton. Extremely well executed they seamlessly fit in with the show so smoothly they almost go unnoticed. The music is partnered with trade-mark theater choreography, from Keri Baker, and performed with an appropriate level of cheesiness.
While diction and pacing in some areas could be improved – this production makes for a fun night out whether you’re a serial fan or a first-time viewer. Director Micheal Carroll has delivered a solid show that was clearly well-received by audiences.
With only 3 shows remaining in the season, you best book your tickets quickly @ https://drpac.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/135674
Remaining Sessions:-
- 13th Sep – 7:30 pm
- 14th Sep – 7:30 pm
- 15th Sep – 2 pm
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.
