Review: What’s The Buzz? At Adelaide Festival Theatre

There are concerts, there are cabaret shows, and then there are evenings that remind you why live performance remains one of our most powerful art forms.

What’s The Buzz?, presented as part of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, delivered exactly what its title promised, and more.

Part concert, part conversation and part backstage pass into one of Australia’s biggest musical theatre productions, this intimate gathering of cast members from the recent tour of Jesus Christ Superstar proved that exceptional talent needs very little embellishment.

Under the expert guidance of the festival’s Artistic Director, Reuben Kaye, the evening unfolded like a reunion among friends. Equal parts irreverent, insightful and heartfelt, Kaye steered the conversation with trademark wit while giving each performer space to share the stories, challenges and joys behind bringing such an iconic work to life.

And the voices.

Michael Paynter, who has earned widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Jesus, once again demonstrated why audiences have been so captivated. His rendition of Gethsemane was breathtaking. Stripped of spectacle, the song became even more intimate and vulnerable, building to a climax that left the audience holding its collective breath and bringing them to their feet.

Throughout the night, Paynter spoke candidly about the demands of carrying such an iconic role, offering fascinating insights into the technical and emotional challenges of portraying Jesus.

Mahalia Barnes brought warmth, soul and authenticity to every moment she occupied. Her performance of I Don’t Know How to Love Him was stunning. Rather than relying on vocal theatrics, Barnes allowed the song’s vulnerability to shine, accompanied solely by iconic musical director Laura Tipoki, creating an interpretation that felt honest, heartfelt and deeply affecting.

John O’Hara reminded audiences why he remains one of Australia’s most respected leading men. His vocal power is undeniable, but it was his storytelling and dry humour that left a lasting impression. Whether sharing anecdotes from the road or reflecting on the show’s legacy, O’Hara brought both gravitas and warmth.

Javon King delivered the star quality audiences have come to expect. Possessing a seemingly limitless voice, King’s contributions were electrifying, his effortless stage presence ensuring every musical moment landed.

Graeme Isaako’s rich vocals and commanding presence reinforced why he has become such a sought-after performer. Equally comfortable in conversation and song, Isaako brought humour, generosity and genuine affection for his castmates.

Elliot Baker arrived having barely had time to unpack, flying into Adelaide straight from the stage of Anastasia. Any hint of travel fatigue was nowhere to be found. Bringing his trademark charisma, polish and bass tones in This Jesus Must Die, Baker slipped seamlessly into the evening, alongside the ever-engaging Peter Murphy, the pair added humour, heart and depth to an already stellar line-up.

And then there was Reuben Kaye.

As host, interviewer and occasional instigator, Kaye was in top form. Sharp, fearless and outrageously funny, he kept the audience laughing while knowing exactly when to step aside and allow genuine moments of reflection to emerge. Balancing comedy with meaningful conversation is no small feat, but Kaye made it look effortless.

Musically, the evening was a treasure trove for fans of Jesus Christ Superstar. The title number exploded with energy, reminding everyone why the score remains one of musical theatre’s most thrilling. Everything’s Alright provided tenderness and beauty, while What’s the Buzz crackled with infectious energy and showcased the chemistry between the performers.

Perhaps the evening’s greatest success was its ability to humanise the artists behind these larger-than-life roles. Audiences were given a rare glimpse behind the curtain, into rehearsal rooms, touring life, creative processes, onstage mishaps and personal journeys. These stories transformed familiar songs into something even more meaningful.

In a festival renowned for creating intimate connections between artists and audiences, What’s The Buzz? achieved exactly that. It reminded us that beyond the costumes, lighting rigs and touring productions are remarkable performers whose talent shines brightest when given nothing more than a microphone, a song and a story to tell.

An evening of exceptional music, generous storytelling and world-class talent, What’s The Buzz? was Adelaide Cabaret Festival at its very best; up close, personal and utterly unforgettable.

Bring this one back please!

5 stars

Lia Loves.