LIA LOVES... THEATRE. DANCE. CULTURE. EVENTS.
Follow her adventures as Adelaide's premier theatre buff, arts contributor, educator and ambassador!
September 16, 2024
Long before Mean Girls, Heathers set the bar high with its iconic 80s high school drama featuring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater. Now, Heathers: The Musical has made its Pelican Productions debut, directed by the fearless Georgia Broomhall, known for her exceptional work in youth musical theatre. This musical pulls no punches, delivering a mix of edgy rock-pop tunes about everything from blue balls to slurpee brain freeze. It’s unapologetically outrageous, with Broomhall’s daring direction amplifying every risqué joke and cheeky dance move. While the show revels in its provocative nature, it also surprises with its depth, particularly in the second act. What initially seems like a flashy, superficial spectacle unravels into a profound exploration of teen angst, peer pressure, bullying, and suicide. Broomhall skillfully navigates the balance between humour and serious themes, ensuring the production remains impactful without becoming overly grim. The adaptation, crafted by Kevin Murphy and Laurence O’Keefe, successfully translates Daniel Water’s original film’s essence to the stage. For those unfamiliar or needing a refresher, the story is set at Westerberg High […]
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 […]
August 11, 2024
Chicago, the beloved musical set in the roaring 1920s, has hit Australian stages with an electrifying production that reaffirms why this classic remains a theatrical triumph. This Australian tour, bringing together a remarkable cast and a slick, pared back, modernised vision, delivers a performance that’s as sharp and scintillating as the original. This re-imagining of Chicago, based on the original production directed and choreographed by the Bob Fosse is a testament to how a well-loved masterpiece can be revitalised while staying true to its roots. The stage design is a sleek fusion of Art Deco glamour and contemporary minimalism, capturing the essence of Chicago’s Jazz Age setting while making it relevant for today’s audience. The use of bold lighting and dynamic choreography infuses the show with an energy that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new. The performances by both leads and ensemble are exceptional. Anthony Warlow as Billy Flynn delivers charisma and charm with every note, effortlessly embodying the shallow and shiny lawyer who thrives on courtroom theatrics. Lucy Maunder as Roxie Hart is nothing […]
July 31, 2024
The Questions delivers a fresh take on romantic comedies by transforming a disastrous Tinder date into a compelling musical narrative. In this quirky production, we meet two individuals who seem to be polar opposites: she’s perpetually late and revels in vibrant colours, while he’s obsessively punctual and views the world in muted beige tones. With her background in gender studies and his admiration for Jordan Peterson, their initial clash is as inevitable as it is explosive. Just as she’s about to make her escape, an unexpected citywide lockdown forces her to stay in his meticulously ordered high-rise apartment, setting the stage for an extended and turbulent first date. Chaya Ocampo portrays the Visitor, who finds herself trapped with Charles Wu’s Resident, devoid of internet, phones, or streaming options. The only witnesses to their escalating clash are a rock band (the exceptional Sam Lau, James Bannah Jr., and Jackson Mack, masterfully directed by Kym Purling) ensconced in the neighbouring apartment, adding a layer of musical commentary to the unfolding drama. In a bid to salvage the […]
June 15, 2024
Swing On This, led by the dynamic quartet of Ben Mingay, Luke Kennedy, Bert La Bonte, and Matt Lee, is a cabaret extravaganza and a masterclass in entertainment, seamlessly blending nostalgia with contemporary flair. Celebrating its 10th Anniversary, where it debuted at this very Cabaret Festival, Swing on This transports audiences to a bygone era of elegance, charisma, and toe-tapping rhythm. From the moment the gents mooched on stage, there was a pulsating energy, and the audience was whisked away on a journey through the timeless classics of swing music. Their ode to Adelaide set a comedic tone, and introduced each member to the audience, inviting us to relax and loosen up for the evening. The show was tight, with wonderful banter and camaraderie between the men – a nod to the effort to that goes into making a show look casual, but is firmly rehearsed. Musical director Craig Schneider’s expertise shone through in every note, orchestrating a symphony of sound that perfectly captures the spirit of the era. Backed by a stellar band and […]
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 10, 2024
A Slightly Isolated Dog are one of my favourites. They create new theatre experiences where audiences actively participate and contribute to content or are active players in the theatre. Five flirtatious ‘French’ performers meet you at the door. They bring you in, they show you to your seat while getting to know you. Then they tell you the story – with you. Their rendition of Jekyll & Hyde was a delightful surprise—a comedic twist on the classic gothic tale based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s novella that I never knew I needed until now. As we stepped into the Space Theatre, we were immediately greeted by the various performers. Their flirtatious interactions with the audience created an electric atmosphere. While my poor husband was slightly worried he’d be pulled into the show, I was secretly hoping he would. Dressed in glamorous and chic attire, each performer exuded a magnetic allure, adding a touch of heat to the cool June night. Directed by Leo Gene Peters, this production retained the essence of the original story while infusing […]
June 10, 2024
Christie Whelan Browne’s show “Life in Plastic” is a dazzling journey into the complexities of modern femininity, wrapped in a glossy, vibrant package. From the moment Whelan Browne bursts through the streamer curtains, she charms the audience with her magnetic presence, seamlessly blending comedy, music, and poignant storytelling. Whelan Browne graces the stage adorned in a school dress, clutching a Barbie doll, and delving into tales of a blue light disco, all while sporting braces complete with headgear. Instantly, she embodies her teenage self, captivating the audience either through the relatability of her anecdotes or the sheer brilliance of her character portrayal. Whelan Browne’s razor-sharp wit and comedic timing keep the audience roaring with laughter, but beneath the surface, there’s a profound exploration of societal pressures and personal identity. Through a series of vignettes and musical numbers, Browne delves into the highs and lows of womanhood, from navigating unrealistic beauty standards to grappling with the expectations of motherhood. What sets Life in Plastic apart is Whelan Browne’s fearless honesty. She daringly confronts taboo subjects with […]
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 […]
May 31, 2024
Omigod you guys! Pulteney Grammar School have done it again with their musical Legally Blonde based on the 2001 film and novel by Amanda Brown, with music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin. Legally Blonde the Musical is a vibrant and high-energy show that captures the essence of the beloved story while adding its own unique flair. The musical is a delightful mix of humour, heart, and catchy tunes that leave audiences cheering for more. The show tells the story of Elle Woods, a sorority girl who enrols at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend Warner Huntington III. 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. With an unexpectedly difficult score, fun characters and story, Legally Blonde’s themes are still so relevant today, addressing judgement on appearances, femininity, and acceptance. The […]
May 24, 2024
Leonard Bernstein’s Candide is a whimsical odyssey through the absurdities and contradictions of life, wrapped in a delightful musical package. With a libretto by luminaries such as Lillian Hellman, Richard Wilbur, and Stephen Sondheim, this operatic adaptation of Voltaire’s satirical novella is a tour de force of wit, comedy, and poignant reflection. From the opening notes of the overture, Bernstein’s score sweeps the audience into a world of adventure and uncertainty. The music, ranging from jubilant melodies to melancholic ballads, serves as the perfect backdrop for Candide’s journey from naïveté to wisdom. Underneath the lively surface, there’s a depth of emotion and intellect that resonates long after the final note. The cast of characters is as colourful as they come, each representing a facet of the human condition. Candide himself, is the eternal optimist, navigating a series of misfortunes with unwavering hope, while his beloved Cunegonde, grapples with the moral complexities of survival. From the cynical Dr Pangloss to the pragmatic Old Lady, every role is infused with personality and purpose. Accomplished tenor, Alexander Lewis […]
May 22, 2024
Symphonie of the Bicycle by Hew Parham is a captivating theatrical production that intertwines physical theatre, multimedia, and narrative storytelling to celebrate the joy, history, and cultural impact of bicycles and the Tour de France. Parham, known for his dynamic performance style, masterfully combines humour, poignant moments, and a touch of whimsy to create a rich, immersive experience. The show is a one-hander, with Parham embodying multiple characters and reciting various stories that highlight the significance of bicycles throughout different eras and societies. His versatility as a performer is evident as he shifts seamlessly between personas, bringing each character to life with distinct voices, mannerisms, and emotional depth. The transitions are smooth and often infused with a comedic touch that keeps the audience engaged and entertained. A standout aspect of Symphonie of the Bicycle is its innovative use of multimedia. Projections, soundscapes, and music are cleverly integrated, enhancing the storytelling and providing a dynamic backdrop that complements Parham’s physicality. The sound design, in particular, deserves special mention for its ability to evoke the sensation of […]
May 1, 2024
Adelaide has now been privy to not one, but two huge productions about the lives of the greatest rock and roll stars ever lived. This almighty production of Tina – The Tina Turner Musical will have you weeping in your seat, and dancing in the aisles. First developed in 2016 with book by Katori Hall, Frank Ketelaar and Kees Prins, Turner and her husband Erwin Back both served as Executive Producers to ensure the truth and integrity of her life story. Tina – The Tina Turner Musical electrifies the stage with a powerful portrayal of the iconic singer’s life, delivering a captivating blend of music, drama, and inspiration. As the curtains rise, the heartbeat of her hit ‘Simply the Best’ with the 80s Tina sitting cross legged chanting before going on stage hits the core. The audience is transported through Turner’s remarkable journey, from her humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to her meteoric rise to stardom and her triumphant emergence as the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. One of the most astonishing aspects of the […]
April 21, 2024
Elder Conservatorium Music Theatre have done it again, with a superb graduating class production to rival any professional show touring the country. Little Women, a coming-of-age story written by American novelist Louisa May Alcott, was originally published in two volumes in 1868 and 1869. The tale follows the lives of the four March sisters – Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy – and tells of their passage from childhood to womanhood. Loosely based on the lives of the author and her three sisters, they travel along the novel’s narrative arc, each with their own story, climax and resolution. An immediate commercial and critical success, the novel addresses the major themes of ‘domesticity, work and true love, all interdependent and each necessary to the achievement of it’s heroine’s individual identity’. Such its success, Little Women has been adapted into film no less than seven times, multiple stage and television adaptations and this version debuted on Broadway in 2005. With book by Allan Knee, lyrics by Mindi Dickstein and music by Jason Howland, there is so much to […]
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 14, 2023
FAME is a stage musical based on the 1980 film of the same name, conceived and developed by David De Silva. With book by Jose Fernandez, music by Steve Margoshes and lyrics by Jacques Levy, FAME follows the lives of several students who attend New York City’s High School of Performing Arts from their first year in 1980 to their graduation in 1984. The musical is significantly rewritten from film and television adaptations, with an almost entirely new score, except for the title Academy Award-winning song ‘Fame’. This full-length production is brought to life by the wonderful team from Adelaide Youth Theatre – brilliant training ground for young people in the arts. A triple threat dance major, sassy, confident and determined to make it in the big smoke Carmen Diaz, was portrayed with believability by Paige Tran. Her swan song ‘In LA’ displayed sincere vulnerability beyond her years. The intelligent but serious classical actor, Nick Piazza, was played by Jack Keukenmeester. With a secret romantic interest in Serena, Keukenmeester was authentic and genuine in his […]
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, […]
February 28, 2021
FANGIRLS is a brilliant new Australian musical with book, music and lyrics by the absurdly talented Yve Blake. First produced by Belvoir and Queensland Theatre in association with Brisbane Festival and Australian Theatre for Young People in 2019, FANGIRLS premieres at the Adelaide Festival with much hype and new cast members. A musical based on societies fascination with reckless, uncontrollable, and feverish teenagers and their frenzied infatuation with their celebrity boy worships. It’s not the first story of delusional or uninhibited female obsession, but it is the first to completely encapsulate the very real way the world tries paint young women – that they are ‘weak’ and ‘uncontrollable’ and their passion make them ‘crazy’. Yet their male counterparts are celebrated and revered for showing similar enthusiasm for their football heroes. FANGIRLS is a compassionate celebration of young women, their excitement, and their influence. A show not just for teenagers, but for their parents, grandparents and basically anyone who has ever had a celebrity crush. The story centres around 14 year old intellect Edna [portrayed to […]
February 26, 2021
Every now and then a work comes along to challenge our perception of human connection, strength, tenacity, and resilience. Out of the apocalypse that was 2020, Gravity and Other Myths [GOM] created their most ambitious work yet – The Pulse. Their highly structured international touring model was in tatters and they had to reinvent themselves for a new world. A world where touching each other was taboo and where people and communities were constantly readjusting and responding to the changing environment around them. I was privy to seeing some rehearsals and work in progress, but nothing prepared me for the behemoth I was about to witness. A cast of 30 strong acrobats and 30 young female vocalists brought The Pulse to life. Upon being seated, adorned with masks, the membranous soundscape, designed by Mik LaVage, strikes you in the core – reverberating through your soul with its ominous and palpating tones. With the house lights still shining bright, the curtain rises ever so slowly to reveal a bare stage, set as a rehearsal space – […]
February 25, 2021
What I love most about the Adelaide Fringe is the diversity of shows on offer; there’s cabaret, comedy, theatre, magic, circus, music, dance…and as a punter, to have to pick a few to see based on photos, a blurb and a ticketing link is not an easy task. That’s where I come in – I get to see a plethora of shows and tell you, the punter, what I recommend. And Playback, by emerging South Australian production company, Cocktail Creative, is one I highly recommend. Set in local west end nightclub, Loverboy, you enter via a rear laneway; all dingy, with graffiti on the walls I almost expected to see a group of guys huddled over a fire pit beat boxing similar to New York in the 80s! We are taken to an outdoor bar to enjoy a bevy or two before our pre-show host Big Sash Daddy took us through our paces with a game of ‘Name the Song, Artist, Movie and Year’. I’m not gonna lie. I LOVE these types of ice breakers, […]
February 21, 2021
I absolutely adore the Holden Street Theatres, and The Arch is the perfect backdrop for this tale of murder, mayhem, and mystery. Parlour Games, presented by The Green Guys Company, plays fact with fiction, as a voiceover announces that crime-writer Agatha Christie has gone missing. This was in actuality, a true fact. Christie went missing on December 3 1926 and was not located until 11 days later, in circumstances so strange that they raised more questions than they solved. Christie herself was unable to provide any clues as she remembered nothing. Or did she? Meanwhile, the play depicts eight of her biggest fans coming together in the hope to meet their literary hero for a book signing, at a little English tearoom, only to discover that during an innocent round of Parlour Games, one of them has killed Christie herself! What ensues is an hour of hilarity, classic ‘who dunnit’ interrogations, suspense and pandemonium. Was it The Hostess [Luca Sardelis]; the hard working, but nervous wreck owner of Munkwell Manor, convening the book signing? How […]
February 19, 2021
When the recommendations say mature audiences, not family friendly with occasional coarse language and mild sexual references, you know you are in for an insatiably good night! Billed as the late night after party to tickle your fancies, Club Queens really will be the place to be seen on a Friday and Saturday night during Adelaide Fringe season. Opening night hosts, cabaret doyenne Amelia Ryan and arts royalty Mitchell Butel set the tone with their parody song about Covid, cabaret, clubs, and the Clare Valley, all to the tune of ‘I will Survive’. After welcoming the dignitaries and special guests, all formalities were thrown out the window for a night of unencumbered fun, unpredictable laughs and a teaser of shows that played earlier in the night or are yet to premiere. The show began with Australia’s favourite Cabaret performer and icon, Carlotta, who taunted and heckled the crowd, much to their delight, all the while smashing out dazzling show tunes leaving the audience wanting more! Jo Lawry was up next with her soothing, velvety and […]
January 25, 2021
It’s no secret I am a big fan of youth productions in South Australia. In the words of Whitney Houston ‘I believe the children are our future…’ and the sensational cast and crew of Adelaide Youth Theatre’s production of Moana Jr are testament that the future of theatre is in good hands! Moana Jr is a 60-minute musical adaptation of the 2016 Disney animated film, bringing the adventures of Moana and her village of Motunui to life onstage. Moana Jr features all the beloved songs from the film, written by Tony®, GRAMMY, Emmy, and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i, and Mark Mancina, including “How Far I’ll Go,” “Shiny,” and “You’re Welcome.” This delightful and heart-warming coming-of-age story follows the strong-willed Moana as she sets sail across the Pacific to save her village and discover the truth about her heritage. Moana and the legendary demigod Maui embark on an epic journey of self-discovery and camaraderie as both learn to harness the power that lies within. With empowering messages of bravery and selflessness, Moana Jr […]
January 18, 2021
Celebrating their first big show in their 10th anniversary year, Adelaide Youth Theatre [AYT] marks this occasion by restaging of one of the most famous, grim and difficult musicals of all time – Les Misérables. As a recap, the story follows former prisoner Jean Valjean, who, after being released from the watchful eye of Inspector Javert, is unable to find work because of his status as an ex-convict. He eventually steals from a local church, but when apprehended, the priest claims that Valjean was given the valuables. This triggers a change in Valjean, and he constructs a new identity for himself as a pillar of society and a local businessman. Years later, he adopts a young girl named Cosette, whose mother Fantine, a former employee of his, became a prostitute and died a horrible death in the gutters after being fired. As the years progress and the French Revolution begins to foment, a grown Cosette falls for a passionate revolutionary named Marius, while Javert begins to close in again on Valjean’s secret past. Upon entering […]
October 22, 2020
In today’s current climate, getting to see live theatre is an absolute treat, so when the opportunity to review Scotch College’s Stop the Presses! came along, I snapped up the chance! I was completely bowled over by their production of Les Miserables in 2019, so I was excited to see what they present this time around. I. Was. Not. Disappointed. Stop the Presses! is essentially a showcase of songs from popular musicals over the years. This gave the students, ranging from years 7 to 12, an opportunity to shine across multiple roles, with characters and stories. At first glance, it looks like a random compilation of musicals, however delving deeper, each musical has a common theme of hope, resilience, strength and support. Traits these kids had in spades! The opening number, Welcome to the Rock from Come From Away was gritty and true, with fabulous accent work. Jim Martin lead the charges with his strong stage presence. ‘Stop the World’ was full of fervent intensity, especially from Adele Hubmayer and Jack Raft; exceptional young performers […]
October 20, 2020
Well, Grease certainly is the word! And for our first foray back into theatres, being welcomed by Rydell High is a treat! We are all familiar with the cult film Grease, however this version is based on the Broadway musical by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. Set in 1959 at fictional Rydell High School, the story follows ten working class teenagers as they navigate the complexities of peer pressure, politics, personal core values and love. With a score borrowing heavily from the sounds of early rock and roll, Grease was initially a raw, aggressive and sometimes vulgar show, but subsequent productions sanitised it and toned it down. The show references social issues such as teenage pregnancy, gang violence, sexual exploration and rebellion. All which are still current issues the youth of today face. The musical’s basic plot is a subversion of the common trope of 1950s cinema, where instead of the male lead being transformed into a more sensitive and sympathetic character, it is the woman who is drawn into the man’s influence and transforms […]
March 18, 2020
I was lucky enough to gain a personal invitation by acclaimed director and choreographer, Nick Power to his third independent work, Two Crews. And who else better to come and witness this hip hop battle work for the Adelaide Festival, than my own little B-Boy, my middle son. Two Crews is the collision between France and Australia in the form of Parisian, all-women hip hop dance company, Lady Rocks, founded by choreographer and dancer Lea Cazauran. Representing Australia is Sydney based Riddim Nation, a collective who bring all styles of street dance fused with elements of their traditional culture into the ring. We arrive to see the vast open space, ready for the crews to battle it out. As they enter, they warm up in their respective corners, silently staring down their opponents. The way the stage was set, felt like the audience was pitted against each other! Clad in leopard print shirt with braids, Clairea is the first to take to the stage with a light-footed, almost lyrical popping and locking sequence, before the […]
March 11, 2020
A typical artist’s studio. Paint splattered floor. A wooden, ricketty shelf with finished canvas’ tucked away. A window for natural light. A red table with a white chair. A red ladder leans casually against the shelf. We see a pair of yellow socks poking out from underneath the easel, where The Artist himself is hidden behind his canvas, deep within his creative process. So preoccupied that he often dipped his paintbrush in his cup of tea, and drank from his paint water! My eye, and ear, is drawn to a leak in the ceiling. I am a little concerned, as it is very close to the lighting rig, but my concern soon turns to relief as the annoying drip is all but part of the show. There is a chuckle-inducing scene involving the drip, his cup of tea, and a teabag. I’ll leave the rest to your imagination… Thom Monckton is a New Zealand born, Finland based physical theatre artist trained in circus arts at CircoArts in Christchurch and then at the famed mimodynamics school […]
March 7, 2020
‘How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying’ the Pulitzer Prize winning book by Abe Burrows, Jack Weinstock and Willie Gilbert and Tony Award-winning musical with Music and Lyrics by Frank Loesser, is a story about the triumph of the typical man amid the mockery of big business. Once again, March Productions brings a quite adult-themed musical to life with a young cast, and while the wordy and 1960s dated show proved a little challenging at times with some stumbles over monologues, producer Alice Kennett should be very proud of the modern and sophisticated end product. The stellar production team of Michelle Davy, Mark DeLaine and Brady Lloyd should be highly applauded for their fabulous work on this little gem. When a restless, ambitious and charmingly manipulative window washer named J.Pierrepont Finch (that’s spelt F.I.N.C.H) comes across a book entitled ‘How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying’, he decides to begin his climb up the corporate ladder. Guided by the Voice of the Book, and a dose of his own canniness, Finch begins his […]
March 6, 2020
Architects of Air (AoA) are really onto something. Alan Parkinson, founder and designer and artistic director has built and toured over 500 exhibitions in more than 40 countries, sharing his ‘sense of wonder at the phenomenon of light’. Inspired by natural forms, geometric solids, Islamic and Gothic architecture; each new creation is a maze of winding paths and domes where visitors may lose themselves in sensory bliss. A luminarium takes between 4 to 6 months to build entirely by hand by a workforce of around 6 people. Built entirely in AoA’s Nottingham workshop using a custom-made PVC unique to AoA. A luminarium will last for approximately 300 days of exhibition spread over 4 years, after which it is cut into pieces to be recycled. The luminarium structure is designed with functionality in mind as a temporary building to include portability, accessibility, stability and a modularity to allow the structures to be reconfigured for different sites. Daedalum takes it’s name from Daedalus. In Greek mythology, he was the father of Icarus and the architect of the […]
March 6, 2020
I don’t like to read about a show before seeing it. I much prefer to go in unaware and come to my own conclusion. With all the hype surrounding Kiss & Cry Collective’s Cold Blood, it was difficult to shield myself from the talk. However, I managed to observe opening night only knowing I was watching dancing hands in a tiny set. The brainchild of husband and wife creative duo, dancer and choreographer Michele Anne De Mey, and acclaimed director and screenwriter Jaco Van Dormael and texts by Thomas Gunzig, Cold Blood takes us on a whimsical and entrancing ride. It is the story of seven unpredictable and startling deaths through a multitude of scenarios, using human hands and tiny, child-like toys to demonstrate the silly but fading feebleness of life. This fascinating mix of art forms – dance, film, text – is true genius and is nothing short of original fantastical theatre. As we sit and see a large projection screen, below is the live activity of dancers, camera crew and technicians that create […]
March 5, 2020
Debating whether to sit in the elevated section or centre front upon arrival with my guest, I’m glad we decided centre front. We were up close and personal with all the action. Making it’s Australian debut at the Adelaide Fringe Festival, the Battersea Arts Centre (BAC) Beatbox Academy all the way from the UK, lead by the coolest cat Conrad, are a bunch of uber talented youth presenting Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in an innovative and electrifying combination of beatbox, theatre and song – all live and all made from the mouth. We begin the evening hearing about BAC’s collaboration with our own youth arts centre, Carclew, and Conrad introduces three incredibly raw, but oh so adept kids; Ocean, T-Dog and Eemes, as a curtain raiser to the evening’s performance. They had been workshopping beats, jamming, raps and writing lyrics. Except Ocean. She had no lyrics and was going to freestyle with words the audience threw at her. Chicken, Madhouse, Rabies, Sausage. Yep, she killed it! Conrad then turned the audience into a Beatbox orchestra by […]