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 […]
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, […]
January 22, 2023
If you are unfamiliar with the premise of Frozen, then perhaps you have been living under a rock for the last 10 years. Let me help you… Frozen is a musical with music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez and book by Jennifer Lee, based on the 2013 film of the same name, which in turn was based on Hans Christian Andersen’s 1844 fairy-tale, The Snow Queen. Frozen Jr is a 60-minute adaptation of the full-length musical, centering on the relationship between two sisters who are princesses, Elsa and Anna. Elsa has magical powers to freeze objects and people, which she does not know how to control. After inheriting the throne, Elsa flees, inadvertently causing the kingdom to become frozen in an eternal winter, and nearly kills her sister. She must sacrifice and show true love to save the day. After seeing the professional show recently, a number of times, [ahem 7], I know this is a tricky show to stage, but when the opening lighting cue draws applause from the audience, you know […]
January 22, 2023
I tend to watch any production of West Side Story through rose-coloured glasses – it was the first musical experience I had with my dad, the 1994 Australian tour with musical theatre heavy weights Caroline O’Connor, Marina Prior and Todd McKenney. It remains my favourite musical of all time. There are moments when watching this production, that one forgets that the performers are indeed between the ages of 14 and 20, and they have not yet embarked on a professional career – that this is still them in ‘training’. And what a training ground Adelaide Youth Theatre is! To think that professionals have between 3 – 6 weeks of full day rehearsals, and these ‘kids’ brought this production to life in just two short weeks, is unfathomable. West Side Story is a musical conceived by Jerome Robbins with music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by Arthur Laurents. Inspired by William Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet, the story is set in the mid-1950s in the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City, then a multiracial, blue-collar neighbourhood. The musical explores […]
May 30, 2021
Capitalising on the success of the Netflix hit The Queens Gambit, StoreyBoard Entertainment bring to life a semi-staged concert production of the much loved, and listened to, Chess the Musical. With music by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus of the pop group ABBA, lyrics by Ulvaeus and Tim Rice, and book by Rice, the story involves a politically driven, Cold War–era chess tournament between two grandmasters, one American and the other Soviet Russian, and their fight over a woman who manages one and falls in love with the other. Chess symbolically reflected the Cold War tensions present in the 1980s. The musical has been referred to as a metaphor for the whole Cold War, with the insinuation being made that the Cold War is itself a manipulative game. As with other productions such as Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita, a highly successful concept album was released prior to the first theatrical production. In the case of Chess, the concept album was released in the autumn of 1984 while the show opened in London’s West End […]
February 3, 2020
You’d think after seeing the older cast members perform Seussical, I’d be all ‘seussed’ out, but no, I’m back for more fun and frivolity with the younger performers in Seussical JR! Again, by rehearsing both shows at the same time, in the same time frame and performing in the same theatre, I’m surprised founders and producers Emma Riggs and Kerreane Sarti are still standing! Horton the Elephant, the Cat in the Hat and all your favourite Dr. Seuss characters spring to life onstage in Seussical JR., a fantastical musical extravaganza from Tony-winners Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens. Well done to the talented production team of Director Ned Baulderstone, Musical Director Kate Neville and choreographer Teagan Fisher for navigating such elocutionary and rhetorical lyrics with such a young cast! Seussical Junior is a sung through musical based on the many children’s stories of Dr. Seuss, with most of its plot being based on ‘Horton Hears a Who!’ while incorporating many others such as Oh, the Thinks You Can Think!, McElligot’s Pool, The Butter Battle Book, If […]
January 1, 2020
Billy. Elliot. Those two simple words fill my body with feelings of nostalgia, acceptance, tenacity, forgiveness and perseverance. When I first saw the film in the early 2000s, it made a lasting impression on me. Imagine my excitement, when Elton John wrote the music and Lee Hall provided the book and lyrics to turn this coming of age dance drama film into an award winning and global phenomenon musical. While Adelaide missed out on the original 2008/2009 tour, Universal Theatrical Group, Working Title Films, Greene Light Stage, Michael Coppel Entertainments and Louise Withers Presents are now bringing the 10th Anniversary Australian Tour to Adelaide for a limited run after a hugely successful Sydney season. For those who are unfamiliar with the story, the plot revolves around Billy, a motherless British boy who begins taking ballet lessons, which is polar opposite to his coal miner father and brother’s working class, union fighting beliefs. His ballet teacher, Mrs Wilkinson, recognises Billy’s potential, and suggests he audition for the Royal Ballet School in London. The story of his […]
October 13, 2019
When asked to review Adelaide Youth Theatre’s (AYT) production of Hairspray Jnr, I jumped at the opportunity. This ain’t my first AYT rodeo, and most definitely won’t be my last. AYT are widely known to produce world class productions for youth performers, and this show reinforces their reputation. Hairspray is an American musical with music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman, and book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan, based on the 1988 John Waters movie of the same name. The songs include 1960s-style dance music (my favourite!) and ‘downtown’ rhythm and blues Set in 1962 Baltimore, generously sized teenager, Tracy Turnblad’s dream is to dance on The Corny Collins Show, a local TV dance program based on the real life Buddy Deane Show. When Tracy wins a role on the show, much to the current star Amber Von Tussle’s dismay, she becomes a celebrity overnight, wins the heart of the local teen idol, Link Larkin and leads the town to social change as Tracy campaigns for the show’s integration. I absolutely […]