LIA LOVES... THEATRE. DANCE. CULTURE. EVENTS.
Follow her adventures as Adelaide's premier theatre buff, arts contributor, educator and ambassador!
February 21, 2026
‘Funny, furious and quietly tender – Too Tired to Smash (Patriarchy) is the show for anyone who cares deeply and is absolutely exhausted by it’ ‘Millicent Sarre turns modern exhaustion into sharp, disarming comedy – equal parts manifesto, meltdown and much-needed exhale.’ There’s something deeply comforting about a show that doesn’t pretend to have all the answers and Millicent Sarre’s Too Tired to Smash (Patriarchy) wears that uncertainty proudly. This is comedy-cabaret for the quietly furious, the chronically online, the politically aware but emotionally spent. And honestly? It hits right where it hurts. Presented as part of the Adelaide Fringe, Sarre’s show unfolds like a late-night voice memo sent to the group chat; candid, clever, and slightly unhinged in the best way. The premise is refreshingly simple: the patriarchy is still standing, dismantling it feels overwhelming, and sometimes you’re just… tired. From there, Sarre builds a tightly structured, emotionally intelligent hour that balances satire, sincerity, and a surprising amount of heart. Musically, the show is smart, sharp, and deliberately off-kilter, mirroring the experience of moving […]
February 13, 2026
‘A blistering, heart-shattering revival that proves The Normal Heart is not history – it’s a warning.’ Every now and then, a piece of theatre comes along that doesn’t simply move you, it collides with you. It lands like a slap to the face and leaves the sting long after you’ve left your seat. Larry Kramer’s The Normal Heart is that kind of play. And Sydney Theatre Company’s revival proves, once again, why it remains devastatingly urgent. Having seen a previous incarnation of this work, I arrived knowing the blows it delivers. I was not prepared, however, for how freshly, and frighteningly, they would land in 2026. Kramer, founder of Gay Men’s Health Crisis in 1981 and ACT UP in 1987, channelled his rage, grief and relentless advocacy into this largely autobiographical work. Premiering Off-Broadway in 1985 to acclaim and controversy, it charts the rise of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in New York between 1981 and 1984 through the eyes of writer and activist Alexander ‘Ned’ Weeks and the circle orbiting him. Under the stewardship of the […]
January 31, 2026
There’s something quietly thrilling about watching a company find its feet, and then realise it can run. With The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Funk Soul Productions confirm that their early works were no fluke. Following the buzzy success of The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals, it’s clear this team is building something special: smart, joyful, actor-driven theatre with heart to spare. Gracie Greenrod’s direction leans into the musical’s greatest strength and its ability to be riotously funny one moment and unexpectedly tender the next. The tone is deftly handled, allowing the show’s improv-friendly chaos to bubble while still grounding each character in emotional truth. Under Immi Beattie’s musical direction, the score is crisp, playful and beautifully balanced, with lyrics landing cleanly and harmonies glowing. Allycia Angeles’ choreography is light on its feet and character-specific, enhancing the storytelling rather than overpowering it; exactly as this show demands. As Rona Lisa Peretti (and Olive’s mum), Ruby Pinkerton brings warmth and polish, delivering “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” and “My Favourite Moment of the […]
January 26, 2026
Homegrown Musicals Australia’s Adelaide Things feels less like a showcase and more like a love letter to new Australian writing, to artists backing artists, and to the messy, funny, heartfelt act of making musical theatre right here, right now. It’s warm, generous, and bursting with creative intent, offering audiences a rare glimpse into works in development alongside songs already finding their feet in the wider world. Guiding us through the evening are Phoebe Rodger and Ryan Murphy, who strike a welcoming, playful balance as hosts. There’s an ease to their banter that sets the tone, relaxed, inclusive, and deeply invested in the stories being shared. They open the night with “Miss C”, a warmly observed and affectionate song about one of Rodger’s teachers, setting the spirit of the evening with humour, gratitude, and personal storytelling. Rodger returns in Act 2 with “Phoebs, You’re A Lesbian”, a sharp, self-aware number from her upcoming cabaret debuting at the Adelaide Fringe. It’s funny, honest, unapologetically specific, and emblematic of the voices Homegrown exists to amplify. The writing talent […]
January 24, 2026
Adelaide Youth Theatre tackling Les Misérables is no small feat, and under the thoughtful direction of Matt Smith, this production meets the challenge with heart, ambition, and a clear respect for the material. From the opening bars of “Look Down”, it’s evident this is a company unafraid to trust young performers with one of musical theatre’s most demanding scores and weightiest stories. At the centre of the production is Mat Monti as Jean Valjean, whose seasoned performance provides a strong and steady anchor for the cast. Their delivery of “What Have I Done?” establishes Valjean’s moral journey with clarity and restraint, while “Bring Him Home” is sung with controlled simplicity and emotional honesty. Monti’s professional assurance gives the production a sense of security, allowing the surrounding young performers to flourish. Opposite them, Andrew Crispe’s Javert is equally assured and disciplined. His vocal authority is immediately evident in “Stars”, where his unwavering tone and composure perfectly reflect Javert’s rigid worldview. Crispe’s experience brings weight and inevitability to the role, providing a strong dramatic counterpoint throughout, particularly […]
January 17, 2026
Pelican Productions has truly perfected the art of large-scale youth musical theatre, and MTC Rise Up is yet another triumphant showcase of what can be achieved when passion, discipline and opportunity collide. Each year, approximately 200 students from across South Australia give up two weeks of their summer holidays to immerse themselves in musical theatre, and the results are nothing short of extraordinary. In actual fact, the rehearsals span just 10 days, so park that thought as you read on… With an exceptional team of instructors and mentors at the helm, Pelican Productions directors Jen Frith and Kylie Green bring carefully curated excerpts from some of the most loved contemporary and classic musicals to the stage. This approach allows performers to stretch their skills across acting, singing and dance, and Rise Up delivers on every level. With multiple casts performing, I had the pleasure of watching West End, and from the opening moments it was clear just how much growth had taken place over the fortnight. The production moved seamlessly between senior and junior groups, […]
January 9, 2026
Cirque Alice, from the producers of The Illusionists, feels like tumbling headfirst down the rabbit hole and landing somewhere deliciously unhinged, beautifully precise, and joyfully theatrical, the kind of night that reminds you why live performance still has the power to astonish. At the centre of it all is Layla Schillert as Alice, wide-eyed, warm and wonderfully grounded. She anchors the chaos with a quiet confidence and sensational vocals, guiding us through this surreal world without ever overplaying it. Her Alice isn’t just a spectator; she’s our way in, our emotional compass as logic bends and spectacle takes over. If there’s one figure who threatens to steal the show entirely, it’s Paul Debek’s Mad Hatter; a magician of rare presence and comic timing. Every entrance lands, every trick is layered with character, and his mischievous rapport with the audience is irresistible. He doesn’t just perform magic; he inhabits it. The cast around him is stacked with delights. Darius Thompson’s White Rabbit, violin in hand, scurries and soars in equal measure, threading music through movement with […]
October 27, 2025
There’s something beautifully full-circle about watching the next generation of musical theatre artists take the stage. Wide-eyed, fearless, and ready to show us exactly what they see from here. Homegrown Musicals Australia, together with the third-year graduating cohort of ECMT, delivered just that; a heartfelt, vibrant, and joyously unpolished celebration of Australian storytelling and student artistry. From the very first note, the night felt authentic – a reminder that musical theatre at its best isn’t just about high kicks and big notes, but connection. Under the guidance of the Homegrown Musicals team of Ben Nicholson and Nick Hedger, the showcase gave each performer space to shine, and shine they did, performing original Australian songs from Australian composers. Joey Haenen’s performance of ‘Isolated’ from Tragic was a standout moment. Raw, introspective, and emotionally anchored, Haenen sang with a vulnerability that cut straight through. No showy tricks, no overreach – just truth. It was the kind of performance that makes you stop fidgeting in your seat and really listen. Then came Ellie Esdene McMahon, giving us her […]
October 17, 2025
William Finn’s Elegies: A Song Cycle is a tender, funny, and deeply human reflection on love, loss, and memory, and in what is possibly the first performance of this work since Finn’s passing, the 2nd Year Music Theatre students of the Elder Conservatorium (ECMT) honour his legacy with grace, intelligence, and heart. Under the thoughtful direction and choreography of Joseph Simons, and with musical direction by Nick Hedger, this production radiates authenticity and emotional maturity well beyond the students’ years. Housed in the Little Theatre, this intimate venue feels tailor-made for Finn’s song cycle – close enough for the audience to see every flicker of emotion, every breath between notes. The space itself becomes part of the storytelling, allowing the music and memories to wash over the audience with gentle immediacy. From the opening number, ‘Looking Up Quintet’, the company establishes a tone of candid joy and bittersweet nostalgia. Finn’s music is famously intricate, full of unexpected harmonies, complex transitions, and emotional turns, but under Hedger’s expert guidance, the ensemble moves through it with clarity […]
October 11, 2025
What if Juliet didn’t die? What if she grabbed the quill and rewrote her own story? Northern Light Theatre Company – Adelaide’s premier community theatre company – poses that very question with their bold, glitter-soaked, heart-thumping production of &Juliet. Under the direction of the ever-assured Ceri Hutton, this show bursts to life with energy, emotion, and empowerment in equal measure. Hutton’s direction is crisp and confident, marrying West End polish with the warmth and inclusivity that defines great community theatre. Every choice, from the neon-splashed visuals to the razor-sharp pacing, feels intentional and alive, celebrating individuality while keeping the audience grinning from start to finish. Musical Director Billy St John steers the pop powerhouse score with finesse. Every Max Martin hit lands with irresistible punch, and the band supports the vocals beautifully – propelling the show forward with rhythm, colour, and verve. The choreography, courtesy of the mother-daughter dream team Kerreanne Sarti and Shenayde Patterson, is a total show-stealer. Their routines are fresh, fearless, and flawlessly executed — blending fierce commercial edge with storytelling heart. […]
October 6, 2025
The graduating class of the Elder Conservatorium Music Theatre program have delivered a slick, razor-sharp and joyously self-aware production of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying – a show that’s as much about ambition and charm as it is about perfect comic timing. Under the assured direction of Erin James, this 2025 cohort proves they’re more than ready to trade the classroom for the main stage of Australia’s musical theatre industry. From the moment Matt Hawke’s J. Pierrepont Finch steps into the spotlight, book in hand and gleam in eye, it’s clear we’re in capable hands. Hawke’s Finch is a magnetic blend of guile and good humour; he balances the character’s opportunistic edge with irresistible charisma, making every scheme feel like a song-and-dance masterclass. Opposite him, Ellie Esdene McMahon’s Rosemary is a picture of poised sincerity. Her voice glows with warmth and clarity, grounding the satire with heart and hope, especially in ‘Happy to Keep His Dinner Warm.’ Billie-Rose Russell’s Smitty brings comic brilliance and quick wit to every moment, her chemistry with […]
September 27, 2025
Opening night of Cats the Musical at Her Majesty’s Theatre Adelaide was always going to be a moment of high anticipation. For some in the audience, this show carries four decades of memories, while for others, it was the first encounter with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical built on the whimsical verses of T. S. Eliot. This 40th Anniversary Australian tour did not set out to reinvent the show, but rather to celebrate it with respect, polish and a touch of feline daring, and on Thursday night, the company delivered a production that was both nostalgic and alive with energy. The transformation of Her Majesty’s Theatre into a moonlit junkyard was immediately effective. John Napier’s original design gave the Adelaide stage a sense of vast scale, filled with scaffolding, nooks and mysterious corners where cats could emerge, vanish and prowl. The lighting, credited to Howard Eaton with associate Matthew Tunchon, often deepened the mystery with smoky pools and sudden shafts of illumination, though at times the dimness veiled the performers’ faces a little too much, swallowing […]
August 31, 2025
If you thought We Will Rock You was just a jukebox musical stitched together with Queen’s greatest hits, think again. Pelican Productions have supercharged this cult favourite with a rebellious spark, creating a show that felt like a rock concert colliding headlong with polished youth theatre. Director Vanessa Lee Shirley led with a clear vision, balancing Ben Elton’s playful script with genuine emotion and an abundance of spectacle. Pelican has long been a powerhouse in Adelaide’s youth theatre community, known for staging musicals that rival professional companies. This production proved exactly why, delivering a polished and exhilarating night that showcased the extraordinary depth of local talent. From the opening thunderclap under the musical direction of Michael Griffiths, who was in the original Australian touring show, the music roared with precision and drive. Griffiths ensured Queen’s anthems retained their grandeur without ever overwhelming the singers. Carla Papa’s choreography pulsed with vitality, matching the rhythms of the score while weaving in clever details that gave the ensemble moments of individuality. The movement was bold, expressive and constantly […]
August 9, 2025
If there’s one thing that can brighten a winter’s night faster than a spoonful of sugar, it’s Scotch College’s utterly charming production of Disney’s Mary Poppins the Musical. Directed with a mix of polish and playfulness by Melissa Sheldon and Stephanie Thompson (who also brought her signature flair to the choreography), this was a show that floated into the audience’s hearts with a twinkle in its eye and a skip in its step. From the moment the orchestra struck the first chord under the assured baton of music director Martin Cheney, we knew we were in good hands. Cheney drew out all the richness and sparkle in the Sherman brothers’ iconic score, balancing lush, full-company numbers with moments of gentle intimacy. Lucy Stirling was Mary Poppins – practically perfect in every way. With crystal-clear vocals, razor-sharp timing, and a poise that never faltered, she sailed through the Banks family’s troubles with the grace of a kite on a breezy day. Her chemistry with Asher Gordon’s endlessly likeable Bert was delightful; Gordon charmed the audience with […]
July 12, 2025
Laugh-out-loud one moment, heartbreakingly beautiful the next – Kimberly Akimbo is pure magic. This Australian premiere of Kimberly Akimbo is proof that some stories have no boundaries – and, if they land in the right hands, they take hold and become something new, yet deeply moving. Under the inspired direction of Mitchell Butel, this offbeat treasure unfolds with a pitch-perfect balance of tenderness, surprise, emotional richness and a touch of lovely chaos that couldn’t be more at home on an Australian stage. At the centre of it is Marina Prior as Kimberly – a casting choice that delights and surprises at every turn. Prior brings to Kimberly the warmth, mischief and painful vulnerability that make this improbable teenage hero so indelible. Seeing her navigate the craziness of a life lived too quickly – first love, lousy parents, an actually criminal aunt – is by turns hilarious and heartbreaking. She’s aided by a great ensemble who balance out the show’s goofy humour with genuine pathos. Darcy Wain is adorably awkward, earnest and incredible as Seth, Kimberly’s […]
June 22, 2025
A Quarter-Century of Camp, Class and Cabaret Chaos – Sharp enough to cut a corset! The Adelaide Cabaret Festival turned 25 – and like any true cabaret queen hitting a milestone, she threw a party bursting with sequins, sass, and sentimental swan songs. Held at the Festival Theatre, the silver jubilee celebration wasn’t just a showcase – it was a glitterbomb of gratitude, cheek, and community spirit. Who better to host than the indefatigably fabulous Virginia Gay, who tore into the evening with her signature blend of literary sharpness and musical mischief. Part emcee, part birthday cake with legs, Gay commanded the stage in a strappy number dripping with sensuality and self-aware smut. With that, she lit the fuse, and the party exploded into full gear. Gillian Cosgriff, armed with her piano, wickedly clever lyrics and dressed as a self-described grown up, goth Madeline, delivered a song so funny and frighteningly relatable, the audience laughed in guilty recognition. Her wit hits like a velvet sledgehammer – charming you first, then knocking you over. A ‘guess […]
June 22, 2025
A Show So Big, It Needs Its Own Safety Warning If cabaret were a weapon, Reuben Kaye would be a fully loaded glitter cannon aimed squarely at your expectations, your politics, and your heterosexual comfort zone. With enGORGEd XXL, he doesn’t so much break the fourth wall as kick it down in $4,000 six-inch heels and kiss the rubble. This isn’t a show – it’s a feast of ferocity: oversized, outrageous, and pulsing with charisma. The title doesn’t pull any punches, neither does Kaye. The moment he walks onstage before an 18-piece orchestra worthy of a Marvel finale, helmed by composer and music director extraordinaire Shanon Whitelock, you know you’re in for big band, big personality, and even bigger truths. Reuben performs like a drag queen fired from a confetti cannon – glam, loud, and striking its target dead-on. Nothing, from systemic oppression to Elon Musk’s cosmetic catastrophes, is off-limits and no punchline over-dressed. Meow… Among the emotional highlight reels is a tale of his childhood bully, reimagined with wicked humour as a monologue that […]
June 16, 2025
Late nights at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival have always held the promise of a little mischief and a lot of magic – and this year, Gillian Cosgriff has brought both in spades with There is Nothing Like a Game!. Equal parts game show, variety hour, and cheeky party, Cosgriff’s newest late-night foray is the perfect way to keep festival vibes buzzing well after bedtime. From the second she leaps on stage, Cosgriff reminds us all why she’s a festival favourite. Her sharp wit, relaxed charm and infectious silliness have the audience in the palm of her hand. She takes a straightforward idea – grown-ups playing silly games for the sheer fun of it – and turns it into a hilarious 90 minutes of laughter, nostalgia and surprise celebrity antics. Audience participation is the show’s lifeblood, and Cosgriff is a genius at encouraging even the shyest punter to shout out answers and barrack for their mates. Opening night highlights involved a desperate free-for-all to recall the birth order of the Von Trapp kids and a side-splittingly […]
June 16, 2025
Bobby Fox, or ‘Mr Kicks’ as he affectionately calls himself, delivered a masterclass in rhythm, charm, and sheer talent in Mr Entertainment. Supported by a dynamic eight-piece band, he burst onto the stage with a five-minute tap extravaganza, immediately pulling the audience into his world. From the start, it was clear – this wasn’t just a performance; it was a celebration of rhythm and storytelling. Fox’s second number, a rumba-infused rendition of ‘I Could Have Danced All Night’, was a standout, showcasing his jazz sensibilities and leading into an electrifying tap trade-off with the pianist. He later paid tribute to the legendary Sammy Davis Jr. with ‘Song and Dance Man’, delivering an emotionally charged combination of tap and vocals that resonated deeply. ‘Mr Bojangles’ followed, with a stellar arrangement by James Earl and the band, further solidifying Fox’s ability to captivate through movement. His smooth vocals shone in ‘My Eyes Adore You’, presenting a personal interpretation of the classic, but it was his heartfelt dedication of ‘Danny Boy’ to his ailing father that became one […]
June 7, 2025
St Peter’s Girls’ School took on Newsies the Musical with enthusiasm, heart, and a clear sense of purpose. Based on the 1992 Disney film and inspired by the real-life Newsboys Strike of 1899 in New York City, Newsies follows Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy who dreams of a better life beyond the city streets. When publishing giants Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies a group of young workers to take a stand. With help from aspiring journalist Katherine Plumber, the newsies band together in a strike for justice. Filled with rousing anthems, spirited choreography, and themes of unity and resilience, the musical celebrates the power of young voices to ignite change. Directed and produced by Katherine Kitching, this production balanced large ensemble numbers with more intimate character moments, allowing space for both storytelling and spectacle. Kate Burnett’s choreography injected vitality into the show, with group numbers like “Seize the Day” and “King of New York” performed with spirit and commitment. While there were some timing inconsistencies […]
October 4, 2024
Grease is the word, Adelaide! The new Australian production of Grease is a vibrant and energetic revival that brings the classic story of Rydell High to life with fresh flair and undeniable appeal. Set against a backdrop of 1950s Americana, this iteration successfully marries nostalgia with a contemporary twist, making it a must-see for both die-hard fans and newcomers alike. Even before the curtain rises, the audience is treated to projections to set the scene, and we are immediately swept away by a thrilling atmosphere. The choreography, by Eric Giancola is sharp and dynamic, with the ensemble cast moving in perfect harmony during the iconic dance numbers. With classics like “Summer Nights” and “You’re the One That I Want” delivered with a fresh energy that ignites the audience. Shout out to local lad Oscar Bridges, making his adult professional debut fresh from high school, it is easy to see why he was cast – a knockout dancer and performer. He is one to watch! With draw card names Jay Laga’aia, Paulini [whose vocals as Teen […]
August 11, 2024
School of Rock the Musical, based on the beloved 2003 film, has rocketed onto stages with a high-energy production that brings the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll to life. This musical adaptation, with its infectious enthusiasm and catchy tunes, has proven to be a hit with audiences of all ages. This production is extra special, as it is presented by Scotch College Adelaide, a school known for its high-quality transformations of Broadway shows. Coupled with the fact, through the generosity of Richelle and Torben Brookman of GWB Entertainment, the students are working with the original desks, costumes and instruments from the international tours. An incredible opportunity for anyone! I was lucky enough to see the original Broadway run, as well as work on the international tours of School of Rock with GWB Entertainment. It has firmly become one of my all-time favourite musicals. Produced by the sensational Head of Theatre Arts, Nicola Triglau and c0-directed by the multi-talented Stephanie Thompson and Melissa Shelon. This production of School of Rock nails the fun and rebellious essence […]
June 13, 2024
Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Luzia’ is a mesmerizing tapestry of artistry, athleticism, and awe-inspiring spectacle. From the moment the sun rises, and we are told to be ready for take-off, the audience is transported into a dreamscape where reality bends and imagination reigns supreme. The show’s theme, inspired by the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Mexico, infuses every element with a rich and colourful energy. From the intricate, animal-like costumes to the dynamic set design, every detail is meticulously crafted to evoke the spirit of the region. But it’s the incredible performers who truly steal the show. The cast of “Luzia” includes a diverse array of talented artists, including musicians, dancers, and acrobats, each bringing their own unique flair to the production. Together, they create a spectacle that is truly magnificent. With their unparalleled skill and grace, they effortlessly push the boundaries of what seems humanly possible. From breathtaking acrobatics to jaw-dropping feats of strength, each act leaves the audience on the edge of their seats, gasping in amazement. At the heart of “Luzia” are […]
June 9, 2024
It is always a thrill to be in the audience for the opening of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival and this year is like no other; with the incomparable and delectable Virginia Gay is at the helm! The Variety Gala Opening Night was an electrifying extravaganza that set the stage on fire, marking the commencement of what promises to be an unforgettable festival season. From start to finish, the gala delivered a kaleidoscope of performances that celebrated the diversity and dynamism of cabaret. Hosted by the dazzling and self-proclaimed Chief Mischief Maker Artistic Director herself, the night was captivating, wicked, and full of mayhem! Isaac Hannam was on hand to deliver his inimitable Welcome to Country. Crawling out of the symbolic bathtub in full Couture+Love+Madness ballgown and Elever earrings [fantastic Adelaide brands], to sing an ode to Adelaide, Virginia Gay set the tone of the night and the whole Cabaret season and had the audience in rapturous applause! The stars of the Variety Gala made their way to centre stage to spruik their show by giving […]
April 10, 2024
The Legend, The Icon, The King has arrived in Adelaide to rock and roll skirts, blue suede shoes and kiss curls galore! An incredible new production about the life of the greatest and most influential rock and roll artist of the twentieth century, Elvis Presley is here, but not for long! Based on a concept by Floyd Mutrux and book by Sean Cercone and David Abbinanti, this musical [surprise, surprise!] features many hits from the King. Elvis is not only a cultural icon, but he gave a voice to entire generation, and the impact of his music still lives on today. This musical is a vertical narrative of Elvis’ life, from his humble beginnings in Tupelo Mississippi to the masterpiece that was the ’68 Comeback Special. Australian audiences are especially lucky, as this production is premiering right here on our home soil, with Australian talent across the cast and creatives. The story starts backstage in 1968, and then travels back and forth through time with clever projections and sets reminding us of the year we […]
March 5, 2024
Presented by local company The Little Things Productions, fronted by powerhouse Rachel Vidoni, is this year’s rock extravaganza, Her Majesty – The Queen Rock Show blowing the roof off [well, metaphorically, as The Fantail is Gluttony’s open-air venue] with this must-see gig. A simple premise – celebrating the great hits and musical genius of Queen. After last years award winning mighty, Come Together – The Beatles Rock Show, Vidoni has produced another spectacular show, this time as a stadium concert event. Featuring a dazzling cast of dancers and exciting musicians, Vidoni and her team take you on a psychedelic and theatrical journey that will have you standing and stomping along the whole time! Add the perfection of The Fantail as a venue, a still, cool night, with a flight of bats and I was in my element. The cool stage vibe, with blistering lighting, was set with a pink Queen Anne throne and impressive visual projections. Vidoni opens the show with Innuendo followed by a brilliant rendition of A Kind of Magic then seamlessly transitioning […]
October 12, 2023
What a way to finish off the school holidays – exploring the big blue world of Finding Nemo Jr. Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr is a 60 minute musical adaptation of the beloved 2003 Pixar movie Finding Nemo, with new music by award-winning songwriting team Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his small fry Nemo, who longs to travel the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of adorable characters such as the optimistic but forgetful Dory, a laid-back sea turtle Crush and his bale, and the supportive Tank Gang, not to mention making it past the Great White Bruce and his hungry shiver, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other, and themselves. The set is charming and bright with slick moveable stairs to create height and drama, an excellent fly system with nets […]
August 12, 2023
Omigod you guys! If you haven’t had enough pink with the Barbie movie, then head over to The Arts Theatre to soak in Pelican Productions’ Legally Blonde The Musical! Based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the 2001 MGM motion picture, with music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin, this revival is true to the original Broadway version. Premiering in 2007, the film was adapted into a Broadway and West End musical of the same name, nominated for five Laurence Olivier Awards, winning three, including Best Musical, in 2010. The show tells the story of Elle Woods, a sorority girl who enrols at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend Warner. She discovers how her knowledge of the law can help others, and she successfully defends exercise queen Brooke Wyndham in a murder trial. Throughout the show, very few characters have faith in Elle, but she manages to surprise them when she defies expectations while staying true to herself. A surprisingly difficult score, fun characters and story, Legally Blonde’s themes are […]
August 5, 2023
If you are unfamiliar with the premise of Frozen, then perhaps you have been living under a rock for the last 10 years. Let me help you… Frozen is a musical with music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez and book by Jennifer Lee, based on the 2013 film of the same name, which in turn was based on Hans Christian Andersen’s 1844 fairy-tale, The Snow Queen. Frozen Jr is a 60-minute adaptation of the full-length musical, centering on the relationship between two sisters who are princesses, Elsa and Anna. Elsa has magical powers to freeze objects and people, which she does not know how to control. After inheriting the throne, Elsa flees, inadvertently causing the kingdom to become frozen in an eternal winter, and nearly kills her sister. She must sacrifice and show true love to save the day. After seeing the professional show last year, a number of times, [ahem 7], I know this is a tricky show to stage, but when the opening chorus begins and stunning projections are a set, […]
June 26, 2023
Class of Cabaret began in 2010 under the artistic direction of David Campbell at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival to provide a learning opportunity for talented and passionate secondary students to share their perspective on life through the art of cabaret performance. Now it’s fourteenth year, Class of Cabaret provides an expert team in the form of an experienced accompanist, a leading vocal teacher and mentorship from two renowned Adelaide artists to help these students explore issues and ideas to use the medium of cabaret to be a voice for their generation. Class of Cabaret shines a spotlight on tomorrow’s promising young stars. Two spectacular shows were staged, and I got to see the half of these young entertainers at the 6pm session. This year’s expert team comprised of mentors Joanne Hartstone and Mark Oates, director Brock Roberts, vocal coach Rosie Hosking and accompaniment and musical direction by the incredibly talented Ciara Ferguson. They opened with a group number, a medley/mash up of Cyndi Lauper’s True Colours and Sara Bareilles’ Brave before the first performer, Lillian […]
January 22, 2023
If you are unfamiliar with the premise of Frozen, then perhaps you have been living under a rock for the last 10 years. Let me help you… Frozen is a musical with music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez and book by Jennifer Lee, based on the 2013 film of the same name, which in turn was based on Hans Christian Andersen’s 1844 fairy-tale, The Snow Queen. Frozen Jr is a 60-minute adaptation of the full-length musical, centering on the relationship between two sisters who are princesses, Elsa and Anna. Elsa has magical powers to freeze objects and people, which she does not know how to control. After inheriting the throne, Elsa flees, inadvertently causing the kingdom to become frozen in an eternal winter, and nearly kills her sister. She must sacrifice and show true love to save the day. After seeing the professional show recently, a number of times, [ahem 7], I know this is a tricky show to stage, but when the opening lighting cue draws applause from the audience, you know […]
January 4, 2023
What a treat for the Adelaide folk to start 2023! John Frost for Crossroads Live has brought not one but two fantastic, albeit completely different, productions to our state and the audience are lapping it up! This time, it is the mounting of a new Australian production to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the opening of Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap in London. Agatha Christie remains one of the most prolific writers of all time, spanning five decades and over 80 novels and short story collections. She wrote over 19 plays, of which the most famous, The Mouse Trap, is the longest running play in the world. With more than two billion books published, Christie is outsold only by the Bible and Shakespeare. Not bad, huh? What began as a 30-minute radio drama called Three Blind Mice, commissioned as a present for the 80th birthday of Queen Mary, consort of King George V in 1947, the story drew from the real-life case of Dennis O’Neill who died after he and his brother Terence suffered abuse while […]
January 2, 2023
What a way to ring in the New Year at the fabulous Adelaide Festival Theatre, watching the opening night of Hairspray! Based on the 1988 film, written and directed by John Waters, this revival is true to the original Broadway version. A dramatic departure from Waters earlier works, the film was a moderate success, however, became a cult film in the 90s. In 2002, the film was adapted into a Broadway musical of the same name, which won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, in 2003. In 2022, Hairspray was selected for preservation in the US National Film Registry as being ‘culturally, historically or aesthetically significant’ Hairspray is an American musical with music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, with a book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan. Set in 1962 Baltimore, Maryland, the show follows self-proclaimed ‘pleasantly plump’ teenager Tracy Turnblad as she pursues stardom to dance on The Corny Collins Show, a local TV dance program based on the real-life Buddy Deane Show. When Tracy wins a role […]
May 30, 2022
Divorced. Beheaded. Died. Divorced. Beheaded. Survived. When I had heard about a musical written by two university friends about the wives of King Henry VIII, I was intrigued. Fast forward five years and this Bridgerton meets Britney pop musical sensation is in Australia, after touring the world with countless accolades. A musical comedy with book, music and lyrics by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, SIX is based on the historical lives of the six wives of Henry VIII. A modern retelling presented as a pop concert as the Queens take it in turns singing and spilling their story, vying to win the title of ‘most suffered’ and ultimately become the lead singer of the group. The opening anthem ‘Ex-Wives’ blew the roof off – with a dazzling display of arena style lighting, bursting with girl power and a dynamic team of performers. The first wife to tell her version of events is Catherine of Aragon played with Beyonce and Shakira vibes by Phoenix Jackson Mendosa. Her song ‘No Way’ recounts her anger with Henry as […]
May 3, 2022
Another outstanding production from Adelaide Youth Theatre for 2022 is Into the Woods. With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine, the incredible production team of Emma Riggs and Kerreane Sarti deliver once again a high quality show that spotlights the burgeoning young talent of South Australia. Into the Woods intertwines the plots of several Brothers Grimm fairy tales, exploring the consequences of the characters wishes and quests. The main characters are taken from Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, Rapunzel and Cinderella. The musical is tied together by a story involving a witch whom tasks a childless baker and his wife with procuring magical items from these classic fairy tale characters to reverse the curse put on their family tree. While not a typical sung through musical, the dialogue in the show is characterised by the use syncopated speech, and delivered with a fixed beat or kind of spoken song. This was not a junior version, but a solid two and a half hour full show. I’ve always […]