LIA LOVES... THEATRE. DANCE. CULTURE. EVENTS.
Follow her adventures as Adelaide's premier theatre buff, arts contributor, educator and ambassador!
June 2, 2025
A Stylish, Stirred (Not Shaken) Triumph at the Adelaide Cabaret Fringe After the sold-out success of Love is a Game: An Adele Song Cycle, anticipation was high for the next outing from powerhouse performers Oliver John and Leticia Lee – and Bond Songs: The Music of 007 does not disappoint. Sleek, nostalgic, and packed with vocal fireworks, this elegant cabaret is a love letter to the music that has defined cinema’s suavest spy for over six decades. Set in the opulent Ayers House Ballroom, the venue alone sets the tone for a night of sophistication and style. But once the first chord hits, it’s clear the real glamour comes from the trio onstage. With Euan Safey commanding the keys with precision and flair, the musical foundation is as smooth as a martini and just as intoxicating. Oliver John and Leticia Lee are magnetic throughout. Their voices – rich, controlled, and emotionally charged – bring new life to iconic Bond themes while also highlighting the depth of the lesser-known tracks in the 007 songbook. From the […]
May 31, 2025
Few high school productions have ever come as close to professional-level polish and sophistication as Pulteney Grammar School’s incendiary staging of Urinetown: The Musical. Skilfully directed with acid-sharp wit and bold energy by Jo Casson, the show was a pro-level success, replete with satirical bite, perceptive performances, and theatrical style that defied belief in a high school production. No sooner had the houselights faded than the audience was whisked into a dystopian world starkly realised in excellent lighting, set, and sound design. Technical niceties were dealt with to a degree more generally reserved for seasoned companies: striking industrial imagery, spot-on balance in the sound, and evocative lighting effects that authenticated comedy and pathos with equal emphasis. Henry Green was well-suited to play morally ambiguous and self-aware Officer Lockstock with commendable ease, navigating the show’s meta-theatricality with a dry wit that left one in hysterics. His inquisitive opposite, Emily Puah, brought warmth and humour to Little Sally, with whom she played lustily innocent and on the mark with comedic timing. Billy Rowan, as evil Caldwell B. […]
May 11, 2025
Step aside, dusty fairy tales – Disney’s Beauty and the Beast musical has roared back to life on the Australian stage with a production that’s equal parts spellbinding spectacle and heartwarming humanity. This new staging enchants from start to finish, but it’s the sparkling cast that truly makes it feel like magic. With a golden blend of powerhouse vocals, playful choreography, and nuanced performances, the cast breathes fresh life into this beloved beast of a classic. At the centre of the enchantment is Shubshri Kandiah as Belle, who proves once again she’s the Belle of any ball. With a voice as pure as a snowflake and a fierce intelligence radiating from every line, Kandiah brings a modern grace to the book-loving heroine. She balances strength and compassion with such effortless ease, her Belle isn’t just beautiful – she’s brilliantly bound for greatness. Brendan Xavier gives a deeply moving performance as the Beast, managing to growl, snarl, and still tug heartstrings. His transformation isn’t just physical – it’s emotional, and Xavier’s rich baritone and layered vulnerability […]
May 9, 2025
State Opera South Australia’s production of Flight is an exhilarating, emotionally astute, and visually dazzling night at the theatre. With Jonathan Dove’s vibrant score and April De Angelis’ sparkling libretto brought to full, glorious life under the direction of Stephen Barlow, this production soars with wit, sexiness, and a sharp-edged sense of contemporary humanity. Based loosely on the true story of a refugee stranded in an airport, Flight unfolds within the liminal space of a terminal, where characters from all walks of life are temporarily grounded; physically and metaphorically. The opera’s mixture of comedy, pathos, and social commentary makes it fertile ground for an ensemble-driven showcase, and this cast delivers with gusto. James Laing is extraordinary as The Refugee, combining vulnerability and mystery with a captivating countertenor warmth. His nuanced performance gives the opera its aching emotional core, balancing beautifully with the otherwise fast-paced, often farcical scenes. Anna Voshege’s Controller floats above the action in both literal and vocal terms, her crystalline soprano and commanding stage presence making her a magnetic, omniscient figure. Her interactions […]
April 25, 2025
Into the Woods, staged by third-year students of Elder Conservatorium Music Theatre and directed by Miranda Middleton, with musical direction by Peter Johns and choreography by Amy Zhang, is a vibrant and accomplished show that highlights not only the brilliance of Sondheim and Lapine’s storytelling, but also the outstanding talent emerging from South Australia’s performing arts community. Middleton has re-imagined this beloved musical through a distinctive Australiana lens, infusing it with a uniquely local flavour. From set design to accents and costumes, this whimsical tale is transported into a 1980s Australian bush setting. The enchanted forest becomes a dry landscape dotted with references to an Aussie backyard – the cow being represented by an Esky and even the iconic Hills Hoist. The characters – while steeped in fantasy – speak and dress with subtle outback references. This clever reinterpretation offers a grounded and refreshing take on the classic, making it both accessible and delightfully unexpected. With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by James Lapine, Into the Woods cleverly weaves together several Brothers […]
March 27, 2025
Sister Act the Musical is nothing short of a divine experience, delivering a sermon of soul, sass, and side-splitting humour. This production, with new music by Alan Menken, hits all the right notes and makes a joyful noise that could convert even the most cynical audience member into a believer in the power of musical theatre. Director Bill Buckhurst has orchestrated a production that is equal parts heartwarming and hilarious, striking the perfect balance between raucous comedy and heartfelt storytelling. His vision brings fresh energy to this beloved musical, ensuring that every scene feels dynamic and engaging. Choreographer Alistair David deserves a standing ovation for his electrifying dance numbers, which transform the convent from solemn to spectacular. The ensemble moves with precision and joy, making every routine feel as uplifting as a Sunday morning gospel choir. Leading the religious congregation is the sensational Casey Donovan as Deloris Van Cartier. With a voice as booming as a cathedral organ and charisma that would light up the stained-glass windows, Donovan gives a rightly nun-forgettable performance. She commands […]
February 2, 2025
The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals is a thrilling mix of horror, comedy, and musical theatre. Making its South Australian premiere produced by Immi Beattie and Gracie Greenrod of Funk Soul Productions and created by StarKid Productions—famous for A Very Potter Musical—this show introduces an unusual premise: Paul, a man who hates musicals, becomes the reluctant hero in a town overtaken by an alien hive mind that forces everyone to sing and dance. Combining horror with comedy, the show offers a fresh take on resisting musicals. The humour is quick-witted, with clever references and parodies of musical theatre tropes. At the same time, there’s a palpable sense of tension as the characters fight for survival. First-time director, who also doubles as actor in the show, Teagan Garvey, deserves praise for his strong vision and dedication. The musical numbers are a highlight, with excellent musical direction by Immi Beattie, who enhances the characters’ unwilling transformation into participants in a musical world. The catchy, satirical score adds to the enjoyment, even as the characters face impending doom. […]
January 26, 2025
Adelaide Youth Theatre has kicked off 2025 with an exhilarating rendition of the iconic Chicago, reminding us why this classic musical endures as a theatrical masterpiece. By assembling an exceptional cast and presenting a sleek, contemporary reimagining, AYT and its team deliver a performance brimming with sharpness and brilliance, matching the energy of any professional production. The set design, echoing the recent professional tour in Adelaide, blends Art Deco luxury with minimalist modernity, capturing the heart of Chicago’s Jazz Age while ensuring its relevance for today’s viewers. Bold lighting and lively choreography energize the production, blending nostalgia with a fresh, exciting perspective. The cast’s performances, both lead and ensemble, are extraordinary. Ayeisha Everett shines as Matron Mama Morton, the forceful yet empathetic figure who influences the fates of the female prisoners. Her powerful rendition of “When You’re Good to Mama” is a highlight, showcasing her commanding vocal ability. Riley Mobbs portrays Amos Hart, Roxie’s beleaguered but loving husband, offering a tender contrast to the otherwise flashy and cutthroat world of Chicago. His rendition of “Mr. […]
January 18, 2025
Two decades is a significant span of time for nurturing and celebrating emerging talent in a summer arts initiative. Pelican Productions has perfected this, as each year approximately 300 students from across South Australia dedicate two weeks of their summer break to honing their abilities in musical theatre. With an exceptional team of instructors and mentors, they bring excerpts from some of theatre’s most beloved and iconic musicals to life. This year, Pelican welcomes back alumni performers, many of whom are currently active in the arts, including Stephanie Cole, Joe Meldrum [last seen in Chicago], Finn Green [on tour with The 60 Four], Jordan Tomlijenovic [starring in Jesus Christ Superstar], and Matthew Prime [touring with Tina Turner the Musical], among others! With three casts performing, I had the privilege of attending the opening night production of Hollywood. Each musical number was vibrant and tuneful, showcasing the dedication and progress of each participant over the past fortnight. The performance alternated between senior and junior groups, with every sequence flowing smoothly and engaging the audience. The ensemble […]
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 […]
February 26, 2020
I’ve always had a soft spot for The Bakehouse Theatre, having performed there myself many years ago. It is a casual, intimate space, perfect for the one man play, The Will To Be. Written, produced and performed by an incredibly creative and talented young man, Mark Salvestro, The Will To Be is a thought provoking, one act exploration of sexuality, societal suppressions and shame laced with the words of Shakespeare. We first meet the character, William O’Halloran, sitting atop his desk reading a letter to himself as we take our seats in the studio theatre. The eloquent, historical set implies this is the office of an intellect; with books, certificates and work scattered across the room. A carefully placed coat rack with jacket and hat strategically placed, and a melancholy late 50s early 60s soundtrack playing in the background. Salvestro articulates the nervousness, flustered and overwrought O’Halloran with such a befitting authenticity of someone dealing with an indecent homosexual discretion being discovered in the 1960s. He tells us he has been fired one month before […]
February 21, 2020
Entering the hustle and bustle of the fab venue, The Moa, with one of my all-time favourite nostalgic tunes, ‘You Call Me Al’ blaring, you know you are in for a good night when you are invited up on the stage to enjoy a beer as you walk in! The Choir of Man is the international success from the hitmakers, Andrew Kay and Nic Doodson. And what a hit it is! Put a pack of 9 twenty-something young, talented men together to sing, drink and talk for almost an hour and a half and what you get is incredible adrenalin, high voltage energy and pure, undiluted entertainment! A cast of seemingly ordinary guys will blow you away with their incredible choreography, tight vocals, sweet poetry and dynamic instrumentals featuring songs from rock, folk, pop and Broadway! The scene was set with the opening number ‘Welcome to The Jungle’, which also happens to be the name of the pub the show is set in. After this bolt of lightning initial scene, we get to meet the […]
February 19, 2020
When you walk into a theatre set with a banana on a ladder, a bunch of balloons in one corner, two microphones stands and an array of costumes set on either side, you know you are in for a traditional Woodley treat. Known as the goofy half of Lano & Woodley, Woodley has carved an incredible career for himself with his slapstick, slightly innocent persona. After working together for almost 20 years, Woodley and Lane decided to part ways in 2006, which led to Woodley performing a number of solo stand up shows, leading to his latest offering, *@#!KING CLOWN. Directed by Bob Franklin with sound and lights by Benny (well done sir), *@#!KING CLOWN (I love writing that), is the story of Woodley’s journey to France to present at a 3 day masterclass with European clown royalty, Balzakov (cough, cough). Here he finds he is demoted to only speak for an hour, as ‘comedian’ from Australia, Franc Woodle, not the 3 days, and then becomes a student in the workshops of mime and funny. […]
February 16, 2020
What a start to the fab Adelaide Fringe season! Beautiful weather, an afternoon out with the family to see the spectacular Brass Monkeys. Presented by Circus Trick Tease, this powerhouse trio of performers Kyle Raftery and April Dawson [under the pseudonyms of Jason and Kylie – love the Neighbours reference] and director Malia Walsh bring their new quirky, action-packed, comedy and circus show to Adelaide. After seeing their award-winning 2019 show, ‘Children Are Stinky’, I knew this was going to be a great spectacle. Walken in to the pre-show tune of ‘Weapon of Choice’ by Fat Boy Slim [see what I did there? Walken…], we are greeted by a set of giant coloured circles with musical notes; a nice bright stage to capture the youthful audiences imagination. Jason and Kylie are engaging, clever and highly energetic and have the young crowd enthralled from start to finish. So much so, that the children could not contain themselves in their seats and just had to join them on stage! The premise of the show had Jason and […]
March 2, 2019
Looking for a night out to celebrate all things women in a man’s world through the storytelling of cabaret? Then head on over and catch Woman by the vocally talented chanteuse, Jodie Stubbs. She will take you on a historical journey through time; from the Garden of Eden, to the turn of the 20th century to modern day motherhood explored through song, story and comedy. Using music from Broadway, 60s classics, R&B, pop; you’ll enjoy this one-woman show as she navigates what it’s like to ‘have it all’. Jodie makes her grand entrance with strong opening vocals, before walking us through the long history of female oppression, beginning with the story of Florence Nightingale. She first sings ‘What’s Up?’ by 4 Non Blondes, and this becomes her theme song for the night…before she is interrupted by her ‘ringing’ phone – the babysitter. She then strives to get through her one hour show recounting how you can be a mum, cabaret star, wife and career woman – without having to check on the kids! The systematic […]
March 1, 2019
Tonight’s Fortuna Spiegeltent, the most elaborate and superbly air conditioned tent at The Garden of Unearthly Delights is the home of Paul McDermott and Steven Gates’ Go Solo (Together, as they say) for the next ten days. McDermott and Gates became friends in 1999 after meeting at the ARIAs, but this marks the beginning of their musical duo, after singing together privately for 5 years. Two of Australia’s most adored and revered comedic singer-songwriters, McDermott, from cult musical comedy group Doug Anthony All Stars and Good News Week (my fave) and Gates, one third of Tripod, bring Adelaide a show of old friend barneys, reminiscing, witty banter and spontaneous drivel scattered amongst their genius lyricism and songbook catalogue. We begin with Shopping Mall, Paul’s tongue in cheek ode to finally understanding common life after his high roller times with DAAS, followed by a rock, Chilli-Pepper-feel rendition of White Man Prison (loved it!). A beautiful Be My Queen, by Gatesy, with comical vocals by McDermott lead into an impromptu heckle of a 13 year old audience […]
February 23, 2019
Tonight’s sold out, highly anticipated, award winning show, Djuki Mala are quirky, high-voltage, compelling, cheeky and joyous. And that is just the crowd warmer! Direct from Elcho Island, Djuki Mala (meaning bird mob) perform an incredible fusion of traditional Yolngu culture, contemporary dance and storytelling. They achieved overnight success when Frank Djirrimbilpilwuy (Big Frank) uploaded a clip of the ‘Chooky’ boys dancing to Zorba the Greek back in 2012. Lionel, Big Frank’s son, created this special video as a thank you to the Greek nurse, Liliane, who cared for his sister while she was sick. From the success of the video, which has had over 2.5 million views on YouTube, they have toured all over the world with their exuberant and effervescent interpretation of dance, song-lines and pop culture. Beginning with a history of colonisation, we see an opening of the four dancers in traditional costumes and ochre, with Gara (spears) and Galpu (spear thrower) and are introduced to Margaret, Big Frank’s wife, via the multimedia projection on stage. She tells us about Big Frank, […]
February 21, 2019
I like seeing a show without expectation, so I do minimal research beforehand and be led purely by what I see on the stage. And what I saw this evening, By a Thread presented by One Fell Swoop Circus, was nothing short of magical. A thick, white rope strung between 2 large pulleys suspended from the top of The Peacock in a spotlight, greeted the audience as we took our seats. Soon, there were bodies clad in jeans and white tank tops entering the arena to take turns in pulling one end of the rope to unravel it upwards. Our attention is then drawn to a scream as a young woman, Ellen, swings on the other end into the crowd. This performer astounds me. She looks as graceful as a gazelle and delicate as a rose, but the strength her body has is incredible! All the performers are spectacularly powerful, agile, elegant and athletic. And there is no prejudice between the roles the performers play. Women being lifters and the base at times, while the […]
February 20, 2019
As a mother of 3, with 2 jobs and 1 husband, I love a night off to have a good belly laugh. So while my huz looks after the kids, I take my dad to see Eddie Ifft Walking on Eggshells. I can hear some of you chortle right about now…I have a cool dad who is not easily shocked or offended, so he was the perfect date. The US comedian has performed to sold out crowds around the world, hosts the successful Talkin’ Shit podcast and has released 3 DVDs, including one titled ‘I Love Pussy’, and 3 CDs with songs such as The Vagina Room and Freeze Enough Sperm, this guy is not afraid of a little over sharing [when I say a little, I mean a lot] or shock value. Ifft lives up to his reputation as a boundary pusher, being politically incorrect at the same time as being super funny. I found myself laughing at jokes and face palming at the same time. This is Eddie’s thing. Making ‘people laugh at […]
February 19, 2019
All Change [Phrase/British/Spoken] – Used for telling people on a train or a bus that they must leave it because it is not going any further. This is quite the metaphor for this play in so many ways. The fact that the train symbolises the end of the road for both our main characters, Ivor and his daughter Lily. That trains occupied a huge part of Ivor’s life, the notion of one’s train of thought and how dementia breaks this and the fact that no one actually likes change. Smokescreen Productions starts the conversation with their affecting and sentimental work, All Change. Produced with support of new Adelaide company, STARC Productions, All Change first began as a project based on a family experience of writer and actor, Tim Marriott. It had a limited but very well received run at Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2018 and this reception encouraged the team to reinvigorate and adapt to this year’s Fringe. Director Nicholas Collett was very lucky indeed to have the talented Stefanie Rossi and Tim Marriott as his […]
February 17, 2019
Blackrock and Nick Enright have been customary with drama school auditions around the country since the mid 90s, and with good reason. Inspired by the true events of a young girls murder on Newcastle’s Stockton Beach in 1989, Enright was asked to write an education piece that examines the world of adolescence, mateship, violence, and relationships. He was then commissioned by Sydney Theatre Company to expand the play into a full length work, and Blackrock was debuted in 1995 to critical acclaim. The town of Blackrock is shook when the body of a teenage girl is found the morning after a party, raped and murdered. The play does not depict the murder itself. Instead, the focus is on a teenager, Jared Kirby, torn between the choking culture of mateship and misogyny and the effect of Tracy’s death on her friends, the parents of those involved and the town. Although the play is now over 30 years old, Enright’s depiction of Australian youth culture is still front and centre today. The objectification of young women, binge […]
February 17, 2019
Cabaret is not like anything else. Packed in like sardines, up close and personal, audience interaction. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea. But if you want to experience cabaret, there is no better introduction than Michael Griffiths. A seasoned performer, musical theatre trained, Helpmann Award winner, Michael brings his vivacious personality and captivating voice to Le Cascadeur at The Garden of Unearthly Delights with his show, Michael Griffiths: By Request. He delighted us with Sweet Dreams, In Vogue, Adolescent and Lucky. Blew us away with his Cole Porter tribute show and now brings all his favourites back for a rollicking rendition, this time with a band (the very talented Felicity on bass and Josh on drums). A casual but exuberant atmosphere, we are taken back to the 70’s and ABBA with Knowing Me, Knowing You, and here Michael explains his love affair with music began. He talks about his very first concert experience with his dad, seeing A-ha, which was the segue to Take on Me. Other favourites from Peter Allen, Barry Manilow, Queen (so […]
February 16, 2019
On a balmy Saturday night, we packed ourselves into Le Cascadeur at the Garden of Unearthly Delights to see cabaret darling Amelia Ryan’s new show, Simply the Breast. Accompanied by Michael Griffiths, she takes you on a journey – an emotional, captivating, hilarious and honest one at that- through her life and the ‘breast’ of her previous shows, Storm in a D Cup, Lady Liberty and The Breast is Yet to Come. To set the scene, she waltzed onstage with a breast pump (my poor husband was mortified when tasked with holding it for her), and immediately broke the fourth wall with candid satire and jest. Taking us from her unique childhood in small town Bombo, to her stripper university days, meeting the love of her life and bringing her son into the world, Amelia lays all her cards on the table and leaves no stone unturned. And what a show this makes. I cry laughed (yes, there was bladder leakage) and got teary, I gasped at her honesty, I was gobsmacked at her life […]
February 16, 2019
The buzz and excitement of opening night at the Adelaide Fringe was palpable tonight. The Garden of Unearthly Delights was its usual vibrant, eclectic self, host to some of the best Fringe acts the world has to offer. With a full house at the Corona, Circus Oz’s Neon delivered on all the promised trashy, glitzy, gaudy and tragic celebration of the 80’s. Starting with John Farnham’s You’re the Voice blaring out of the sound system (which inspired an audience sing a long while taking our seats), followed by some Spandau Ballet Gold , we were taken on a glorious ride through a decade of music, bad dancing and some incredible feats of fancy. From the opening number, we knew we were in for a treat of serious proportions.These guys and gals have talent. And of course they do. Circus Oz have been creating extraordinary shows for 40 years – touring successfully nationally and internationally. Circus Oz celebrate breathtaking stunts, Aussie humour, and an all human ensemble. I especially adore their motto of promoting the best […]