I write about productions across Australia, as if we were talking over a drink post-show. I don’t spend much time explaining plots or re-writing programs; you can google for that. I report the experience and quality on the night.
Latest Reviews
- Spamalot
“What you are about to see is the result of 12 days work”. Drew Anthony introduced the dress rehearsal for his latest production, Spamalot, explaining that this is the time frame he uses for all his shows. But it wasn’t meant as an excuse for inferiority or to lower our expectations; rather he was proud of the result. Indeed, what followed proved that, with a good show… - Frozen by Stray Cats Theatre
My first reaction to an amateur theatre company taking on Frozen was “ok, that’s ambitious”. It is a challenging show in every respect: the sets, the costumes, the casting, the puppets, the timing, the effects, the high notes. Additionally, because the musical is so well known and available on Disney+, even if it’s done differently, the pressure really is on to deliver something memorable. The Stray Cats… - Once
Playing at Chapel Off Chapel in Melbourne, Once reminded me to appreciate the right things again. This started already in the foyer where people bustled and pushed past each other and I couldn’t help but think how good it is to get squished in a happy crowd again after all the rules of the pandemic. A company should not choose lightly to perform this show as it needs a… - Life Lessons From Backstage
One year ago to the day, I walked into the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre to experience my first Stray Cats Theatre Company production. It was Mary Poppins and, not knowing anything about the organisation, I was expecting an “ok” amateur show; a nice day out with the family but only “so-so” in the talent and quality departments. I left that theatre stunned at how a community production… - Anastasia
It’s been a while. I stopped writing here because I found “reviewing” was stealing the joy of shows. I’d be approaching the opening of a production waiting to analyse and take notes. It didn’t help that in the majority of recent performances I’d seen I wasn’t exactly blown away and there was actually lots to critique. What initially got me writing here was a love of the… - The Book of Mormon
I am not a Mormon, but as a Christian, I knew I was still taking a risk with this one. I knew it would be outrageous, but was still not prepared for how much The Book of Mormon goes all out. It is rude. It is over the top. It is offensive to more conservative people. That’s its unapologetic goal. There are some interesting messages going on… - Tivoli Lovely
Eddie Perfect’s brand new musical at the Heath Ledger Theatre was a fresh and funny night out. Performed by current WAAPA students, there was much to like and, for me, after several “meh” experiences lately, this was some welcome quality. The show is very Australian, and seemed inspired by other Aussie shows. The character of Kitty reminded me of Ruth Cracknell from Mother and Son. The setting,… - Leaving most to be desired
I pride myself on being a straight shooter and saying things the way they are and the last musical I went to was absolutely abysmal. So, I need to share this with you, to get it off my chest, but at the same time I still have enough of a heart that I will not name which show it was. (If you try to guess, remember I… - Back To The Future in Sydney
Having already seen this in London in January, I had been itching for the opportunity to watch the Sydney Back To The Future for many months. The memory of that first experience was so strong and good that I was quite excited about Round Two. But, in the end, Sydney didn’t fully hit the spot in comparison and since then I have been asking myself, “Why?” Indeed, “why?”, because… - Kinky Boots
To make a production excellent, you have to make all of it good. The most talented lead in the world is of no use if the band can’t play or the mix is wrong. All the latest tech and effects are pointless if people can’t sing. If the costumes look cheap it detracts from good acting. But if you get it all right, if you have attention to… - Man Up !
Whilst I hadn’t initially realised that these performances were a workshop trial, when the director announced this on the night pre-show, I definitely found it exciting to be part of something like this. As he mentioned, that doesn’t happen as often in Australia as it does overseas. The team asked for feedback which I have indeed provided privately. Doing so here would seem unfair as the show… - Beauty And The Beast
Beauty and the Beast last night was an epic performance of a classic story. However, it was let down by an ongoing problem that continues to plague Perth Musical Theatre. So much to enjoy This show has enjoyed plenty of success in the current Australian season, and rightfully so. It is a magnificent production. The content has been adapted from the film to the stage really well….