LIA LOVES... THEATRE. DANCE. CULTURE. EVENTS.
Follow her adventures as Adelaide's premier theatre buff, arts contributor, educator and ambassador!
November 21, 2024
‘Brilliantly quirky. Gothically dark. Magnificently re-imagined!’ State Theatre Company South Australia’s adaptation of Jack Maggs, Peter Carey’s novel, brings together a rich, profoundly Australian narrative, stunning performances, and innovative technical elements, creating an immersive experience that captivates the audience from start to finish. Set in 19th-century London, the story follows the mysterious ex-convict Jack Maggs (Carey’s reimagining of Magwitch) as he returns from Australia, driven by a desperate search for his ‘son,’ Henry Phipps, who has vanished without a trace. Maggs becomes entangled in the strange world of Phipps’ neighbour, Percy Buckle, and his eccentric household. In his pursuit, Maggs strikes a deal with Tobias Oates, a young novelist and self-proclaimed “mesmerist” (or is it perhaps Charles Dickens himself?), hoping to find Phipps. However, Oates has his own agenda and sees in Maggs the perfect inspiration for a new novel. Throughout Jack Maggs, the great Samuel Adamson explores themes of guilt, salvation, social class, and the effects of past trauma, all with grace and quick wit. Adamson has used Carey’s lush and immersive writing, with […]
November 15, 2024
Anyone who knows me, understands my love for the arts, both professional and amateur, and I have a special place in my heart for the grassroots of performing arts – beginning in schools and youth theatre. Mamma Mia! is a lively and infectious musical set on a beautiful Greek island, revolving around a young bride-to-be and her quest to discover the identity of her father before her wedding. The show is driven by the music of ABBA, with its iconic songs providing the soundtrack to a story about family, love, and self-discovery. It’s a credit to the young performers that the show still captures much of the vitality and exuberance that the professional productions are known for. This school production, by Loreto College, is a joyful experience that showcases the talent, excitement, and commitment of the student cast. Donna is the heart of Mamma Mia!, and young Bella Killen playing her does an admirable job of bringing this iconic character to life. While her performance is mostly optimistic and cheerful, there are moments when Donna’s […]
October 20, 2024
The Hunchback of Notre Dame, a musical adaptation of Victor Hugo’s classic novel offers a compelling blend of lingering melodies and emotional storytelling. Set in 15th-century Paris, The Hunchback of Notre Dame follows the story of Quasimodo, the deformed bell-ringer of Notre Dame Cathedral. Abandoned at birth and raised by the sinister Judge Claude Frollo, Quasimodo lives a reclusive life, shunned by society. The plot begins during the Festival of Fools, where Quasimodo is cruelly mocked but finds solace in the beautiful Romani woman, Esmeralda. Esmeralda, compassionate and free-spirited, stands up for Quasimodo, sparking a deep bond between them. Captain Phoebus, a dashing and brave soldier, enters the story as he is drawn to Esmeralda’s charm and spirit. He becomes her ally, recognizing the injustice she faces and developing feelings for her. Their romance adds a layer of complexity, as Quasimodo also harbors deep affection for Esmeralda, creating a poignant love triangle. As Frollo becomes increasingly obsessed with Esmeralda, he turns tyrannical, determined to possess her at any cost. Quasimodo, torn between loyalty to Frollo […]
October 11, 2024
Bring It On: The Musical, directed by Ray Cullen and brought to us by award winning Adelaide Youth Theatre, brings a vibrant energy to the stage, in this movie to musical show. With music and lyrics by none other than Lin-Manuel Miranda, you can hear the hints of Hamilton and In the Heights coming through. Thanks to the inventive and incredible choreography by Shenayde Patterson along with cheer coach Graziella Candeloro – the dance and cheer sequences are dynamic and expertly executed, showcasing the athleticism of the cast and often steals the spotlight. The lead character, Campbell, is portrayed with charm and determination by Abigail Sharp. Her journey from a top cheerleader at her old school to navigating the challenges of a new environment is relatable, even if some of her motivations feel a bit familiar. The underdog story has its moments, and Campbell’s resilience resonates, through the lovely lyrical vocals of Sharp. On the other side of the rivalry is Eva, the cheer captain of the new squad, played villainously by Zahli Linke. While […]
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 […]
September 28, 2024
Jesus Christ Superstar, the iconic rock musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, remains a powerful and thought-provoking retelling of the last days of Jesus Christ. Blending a compelling narrative with unforgettable music, this production, gloriously directed by George Torbay, captivates audiences with its contemporary relevance and emotional depth. Presented by the graduating students of Elder Conservatorium Music Theatre, this musical is a brilliant showcase of the talent to come out of this world class course. From the opening number, the energy is palpable, where the incredible lighting and soundtrack smack you in the face and reverberate through your core. The score features a blend of soaring ballads to pulsating rock anthems, making each song memorable. From the well-known ensemble number ‘What’s The Buzz’ to Mary Magdalene’s poignant ‘Everything’s Alright’ while “Superstar” electrifies the stage, capturing the essence of fame and its consequences. Paul Sinkinson’s musical direction is marvellous, bringing a fresh vitality to the score while maintaining the integrity of the original compositions. Expertly balancing the rock elements and emotional weight of the […]
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 […]
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 […]
March 13, 2023
Smashed – The Brunch Party is the only way to start your Adelaide Cup day! As we picked up our breakfast banquet from the amazing buffet by Meez on Plus, and snaffle a Mimosa on the way in, we were treated to a pre-show disco with Lady Marmalade and other 70s hits blaring through the glorious Speigeltent at The Garden of Unearthly Delights. Our hostess with the mostest, Jazida, turned ‘Burn Baby Burn’ into ‘Brunch Baby Brunch’ with a gaggle of dancing avocados before we were introduced to each performer with their own individual act. Betty Bombshell, one of Australia’s most in demand burlesque artists, kicked off with a Shania Twain cowgirl number which not only showed off her bootylicious curvaceousness, but also her comedic timing. Malia Walsh [who can also be seen in kids Fringe show Children Are Stinky] provided hilarious acro interludes, as well as her own aerial set atop a champagne bottle – complete with fluorescent stiletto ankle boots to a mashup soundtrack of Cyndi Lauper and Britney Spears! Next up was […]
March 2, 2023
As with most shows I review, I refuse to do any research before enjoying the performance in the moment. And boy was I glad I came into this one cold. Damian Callinan, award winning actor, writer and comedian has a surprise discovery of his mother’s 1946 diary, filled with tid-bits of her every day; work life, volunteer commitments with wounded servicemen, church activities and her wild social frolics. However, through this journey of unmasking and revelation, more questions are raised than answered, so we go on a cinematic voyage with Callinan, as he turns his mother’s diary, as well as his father’s retirement journal into a double feature of love and loss, with his parents as the stars of the show. We play the part of the test audience – and his family all have special roles in the making of the ‘film’. Great nieces and nephews [who bear a striking resemblance to Damian’s mother – the genes are strong in this family] are the storyboarders, makeup artists and boom operators. A lovely inclusion that […]
March 20, 2022
I remember first meeting Hans at the Weimer Room back in 2003; a tall, thin and lanky teenager who was the interval act and compere at the weekly cabaret shows that were hosted in the dingy, Berlin-esque bar. He had a multitude of talent back then – all singing, all tapping, all accordion playing comedian, so it is hardly surprising he has reached the dizzying heights of Berlin boy wonder today. One might call it a self-fulfilling prophecy, as he has always dubbed himself ‘an international superstar’ Manifestation at its finest! Hans A Night at the Symph HONEY! marks his return to the stage since the dreaded C-word took hold of the arts world and spun it through the wringer. But being the stalwarts that we are, we dusted ourselves off and prepared for retribution. A what a night of reckoning it was! The magnificent Thebby Theatre was electric – both literally and metaphorically – as the highly regarded 18-piece Adelaide Concert Orchestra, ahem, The Ungrateful Bastards Orchestra, took to the stage to rapturous applause. […]
March 14, 2022
A self-proclaimed glamorous bogan, Amelie Peters is a classically trained singer, international performer and accredited vocal coach who burst onto the stage with her flame hair and sequin covered curves. Just like a real-life Jessica Rabbit – but with personality and pipes! This young cabaret diva takes us through an hour of painlessly pitched parodies, cracking covers and her own original songs interspersed with stories and anecdotes from her [agonizing] years as a retail assistant. Let’s face it – we’ve either all been the retail worker who knows exactly what she is talking about or are the customer she’s lamenting about – either way, this show is for everyone! With satires of ‘9 – 5’, based on the irregular working hours of retail casuals, to the Whitney Houston/ Andrea Boccelli ‘I will always love you/Time to Say Goodbye’ medley – as an ode to her finally leaving her retail job, Peters has her full voice, and acting range on display. From a soft alto, to belting chest voice, flipping right up into the highest of […]
March 14, 2022
Having grown up with the songs of the 60s and 70s thanks to my parents, it felt fitting to bring my mum to enjoy the musical extravaganza that is The 60 Four. A group of four young men, three of whom met in music class at school, who found and fell in love with the sound of the 60s back in 2015, thanks to cabaret performer Michael Griffiths. After performing a Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons medley for an awards night, they received a standing ovation and were immediately booked for three gigs. Luckily for us, they have continued to hone and explore more music of the era, extending their repertoire into a two-hour show, jam packed with slick suits and even slicker choreography. With a venue as brilliantly suited to this style as the Norwood Concert Hall, and a stage set up to rival any celebrity playing in town, the boys roar onto the stage, decked out in matching green velvet jackets to bust out ‘Sherry’ from Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, […]
March 8, 2022
When I saw the marketing for the Classical Mystery Tour, I thought this would be perfect for my Beatles loving, drumming mad son. Not to mention, I grew up on the sounds of the rocking 60s and swinging 70s, so this world premiere of the legendary Beatles album, Magical Mystery Tour was right up my alley. Staged at The Moa, the famous outdoor venue at Adelaide Fringe’s Gluttony, this concert, at a pre-sunset time, was, quite literally, a magical ride through the soundtrack. Magical Mystery Tour album was born after The Beatles completed Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band in April 1967. McCartney wanted to create a film that captured a theme of a psychedelic bus ride with McCartney’s memories of Liverpudlians holidaying on coach tours. The film was to be unscripted; various ‘ordinary’ people were to travel on a coach and have unspecified ‘magical’ adventures. Despite the widespread media condemnation of the film, the 1967 soundtrack release was a critical and commercial success. With Magical Mystery Tour, The Beatles continued their studio experimentation that […]
March 5, 2022
There are certain opportunities in life that are unmissable, and beholding Pina Bausch’s The Rite of Spring is one of those momentous occasions. A German dancer and choreographer who was a significant contributor to a neo-expressionist dance tradition now known as Tanztheater, Bausch’s approach was noted for a stylized blend of dance movement, prominent sound design, and involved stage sets, as well as for engaging the dancers under her to help in the development of a piece. Her work, regarded as a continuation of the European and American expressionist movements, incorporated many expressly dramatic elements and often explored themes connected to trauma, particularly trauma arising out of relationships. From this, she created the company Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch, which performs internationally to this day. Her thrilling Frühlingsopfer (The Rite of Spring), created in 1975, caused a stir in the dance world with its stark depiction, in which the Chosen One is sacrificed to gratify the misogyny of the surrounding men, all while dancing on a stage entirely covered in soil. Based on the ballet and orchestral concert work by composer Igor Stravinsky, The Rite is described by […]
March 1, 2022
360 ALLSTARS, the phenomenal physical worldwide smash, that has been selling out Broadway, Edinburgh and the Sydney Opera House, is back at the Fringe! A show which features and explores all forms of rotation, 360 ALLSTARS connects the elite street to the masses to deliver a supercharged urban extravaganza. Boasting a stellar cast of young, hip and impossibly talented artists, including the 2x World Champion BMX Flatlander, two champion break-dancers, an internationally acclaimed basketball freestyler, and a World Record holding Cyr wheel artist, 360 ALLSTARS is a spectacular fusion of the extraordinary skill and originality that begins from street culture. Add to this a stunning live soundtrack delivered by US MC and live looping vocalist, Mirrah, and multi-award-winning master musician, producer and visionary Gene Peterson combined with incredible video projections, 360 ALLSTARS is as aurally exciting as it is visually astounding. As The Flamingo filled to almost capacity, we are treated to an intro of all the talent who will be entertaining us. Starting with B-Boy Sette, a champion break-dancer from Melbourne. A dancer for […]
February 28, 2022
‘Those who don’t believe in magic, will never find it’ Roald Dahl I, for one, am a magic believer, which is why I adore live theatre. And these words were beamed in front of us, as if to test our faith during this delightful and captivating children’s show, Roald Dahl and the Imagination Seekers. Presented by Get Lost & Found Ltd, Puffin and the Roald Dahl Story Company in association with Interactive Theatre International, a UK based theatre company that produces and promotes interactive comedy theatre, the show is an immersive and collective performance between two actors, and the audience. First commissioned in 2015 by Puffin Books to create a new children’s theatre show based on the works of the world’s number one storyteller Roald Dahl. This show was performed all over the UK and Ireland. In 2019, a collaboration with Roald Dahl Story Company created this new show and has been touring the world since. Especially conceived for ages six and up, the show fosters both imaginative and literacy skills through performance, games and […]
February 28, 2022
After missing out on seeing this rock show at last year’s Fringe, I finally got to witness the hype that is 27 Club. Presented by Andrew Kay, Australia’s premier rock and roll promoter, and Release Creative, the team behind last year’s hit Disco Wonderland and the Barossa Contemporary: Festival for the Curious, are bringing the house down again with this must-see gig. A simple premise – lets celebrate the greats of rock and roll with a rotating cast of Australian rock royalty. Featuring Sarah McLeod from The Superjesus, Kevin Mitchell of Jebediah fame, Carla Lippis, Dusty Lee Stephenson, Libby O’Donovan and a band that brings the house down – this is a concert for those who lived through the 70s, worshipped the 90s and celebrated the noughties. The icons of the ’27 Club’ – those that met their demise at the age of 27 by drink, drugs or jealous husbands– included blues influencer Robert Johnson, Janis Joplin, Kurt Cobain, Jim Morrison, Amy Winehouse and Jimi Hendrix. Add the exactness of The Moa as a venue, […]
February 25, 2022
I like to walk into shows impartial – I don’t do any research before, so I allow my natural appreciations and instincts to react. It has been a while since I’ve seen a true dance theatre work – and Bodylex did not disappoint. Produced and choreographed by creative academic, Rhys Ryan, Bodylex explores rules, regulations and laws and how our bodies respond to these forces either unintentionally or consciously. Questions are posed – do we resist? Conform? Adapt? This piece of experimental theatre is designed to provoke, engage processing of politics pursue examinations of the physical form. Upon entering the hazy black box of The Bakehouse, of which I’ll be extremely sad to see gone, the stage is set starkly with three dancers in simple, muted tone pants and singlet. Two side lights illuminate the space, and we hear the sound of a repetitive and pulsing clap or wood knocking together – this is the heartbeat of the soundscape that gets built upon as the tensions rise. The movement of the dancers – Anika de […]
February 24, 2022
What is Arcadia? Utopia. Unspoiled. Uncorrupted. Presented by local South Australian company, Cocktail Creative, off the back of their award winning sell out season of Playback from Adelaide Fringe 2021, Arcadia is an escape to a desert paradise celebrating idealistic social values of the wild and free. A communal journey expressed through dance, aerial and music with a banging, psychedelic soundtrack. Music from the 70s spanning multiple genres of pop, rock, indie and RnB will see you plunged into a world where the soul, spirit and heart can be truly free. The Octagon at Gluttony is a great venue for this type of show, the cast of five dancers utilise the shape and space really well and have an obvious connection to each other. Starting with a steam punk, Mad Max feel then moving into bohemian, trippy vibes, finishing with massive pops of colour and texture, the costumes, set and lighting were dramatic and vivid. Vocalist Rachel Vidoni, who also happens to smash out a tune on the harmonica and a super sparkly guitar, had […]
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, […]