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 […]
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 […]
February 3, 2020
It’s no secret I’m a big fan of Adelaide Youth Theatre. In it’s tenth year, founders and producers Emma Riggs and Kerreane Sarti have created an incredible platform and learning ground for Adelaide’s young musical theatre talent; fostering the craft and building the foundations for a potential professional career. This summer school holiday show, Seussical, was put together in 2 ½ weeks with a cast from the ages of 12 to 21. Just read that again… Two and a half weeks. The incredible music of Stephen Flaherty and lyrics of Lynn Ahrens, based on the works of the formidable Dr. Seuss, was brought to life by the AMAZING production team of dual Director and Musical Directors Serena Martino-Williams and Jesse Budel and fabulous choreographer Nina Richi. Seussical takes us into the world of Dr Seuss, where we visit his beloved characters including The Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie and JoJo. The Cat in the Hat guides us into the Jungle of Nool where we meet Horton, the kind hearted […]
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 27, 2019
On an unexpected wet and windy Adelaide night, Stan Lai’s The Village provided a heart-warming and comforting night at the theatre. Set at the end of the Civil War in 1949, in a Military Dependents Village in Chiayi, Taiwan, the story crosses a span of 50 years and three generations – the Zhao, Zhu and Zhou families. From the first generation fleeing mainland China after the Kuomintang was defeated, yearning to go back home, to building temporary homes which become their permanent homes, The Village traces the lives of these families and explores themes of identity, belonging and community. Drawing from real life stories in such villages, acclaimed legendary director, Stan Lai has captured poignant experiences and crafted an epic and masterful theatre production that depicts a true, touching history of Taiwan. We are introduced to the first generation, who settled into their makeshift village home, Formosa Village One, after fleeing to safety in Taiwan. It was presumed to be a temporary refugee exile, but transformed into a permanent communal melting pot that would vibrantly […]
October 18, 2019
You know you are in for a zany night out when critics have described this show as ‘multi-layered hyperactivity for the stage’. Bringing my 11 year old son as my date/fellow critic, we walk into the theatre to see a parade of audience members having their photos taken on stage in various states of crazy poses. We discover these photos are then used as part of the shows finale. More on that later. Techno Circus is presented by SIRO-A, a group described as ‘Japan’s answer to the Blue Man Group’. Personally, I loved these guys more! SIRO-A are renowned worldwide for their spectacular performances that combine special effects, incredible projections, mime, dance, puppetry, comedy, illusion and high energy techno music. They have wowed audiences of all ages with their Golden Buzzer winning act from America’s Got Talent, attracted millions of views on YouTube, sold out shows across the globe, and now are ready to take Adelaide on a ride as part of the Adelaide Festival Centre’s Oz Asia Festival. This show is a feast for […]
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 […]
June 17, 2019
Paul Capsis. The man, the myth, the enigma. I have been a fan of Capsis’ since I watched him explode on the screen in ‘Head On’. Then seeing him as the totally mad, flamboyant reincarnation of Rumpelstiltskin in the State Theatre and Windmill collaboration – I was smitten. An award-winning, versatile, original and seasoned performer, he knows how to turn it on and turn it up. And he has been non stop since. Making a dramatic entrance and belching out the Skyhooks 70s classic ‘Ego is Not a Dirty Word’, we realise that this will be a night full of unexpected eccentricities and rip-roaring, emotion charged entertainment. And not only with Capsis out front, but with the marvellous and musically gifted Jethro Woodward and The Fitzroy Youth Orchestra supporting, we knew we were going to be witnessing something of a rarity. Wrapped in leather, fur and jewels, Capsis informs us he received a call from Julia Zemiro to be part of the Ad Cab Fest in 2019, after a five year absence. However, she had […]
June 15, 2019
Settling into the Dunstan Playhouse on a cold and dreary night, the only thing we needed to warm the cockles was a pint and a good story. Thankfully, we got both. Entering dressed in a kilt to wolf whistles from the crowd, the stage slowly lit up each musician as they joined in the opening song. And what an eclectic mix of musos it was! After learning the correct Irish way to cheer for a song you like (Yeaow!, if you are curious), the audience went wild when the dazzling talents of the fantastic Mr Fox were unveiled. A remarkably charming, charismatic and captivating stage performer, Mr Fox (I enjoy referring to him in this formal manner) brings his distinctive storytelling, song, dance and limericks all wrapped up in his delectable Irish accent, to Adelaide for the first time. If it sounds like I’m crushing on Bobby, you’d be right. What’s not to love about a handsome, blue eyed, tap dancing, kilt wearing Irish man who sings songs about loving Bonnie lasses and his ma’m? […]
June 12, 2019
The scene was established the moment you walked into The Space Theatre. Filled with orchards and peacock feathers strung from the balcony as well as the iconic peacock chairs from the era of the 70s sitting near the front of the stage. A beautiful setting for an incredible show. The crowd was full of baby boomers, and some youngins like myself, ready for the music of the night…a celebration of the music by the women in Australia during the 50s, 60s and 70s. We first saw a projected video of Merle Thornton and Rosalie Bognor who famously chained themselves to the bar at the Regatta Hotel, Brisbane in 1965, not only to gain women’s right to drink at a bar with men, but to bring to light the real issues women were facing at the time – equal pay, equal treatment and a revision of the sexist laws that plagued Australia. The very talented Amelia Ryan, of Simply the Breast and The Breast is Yet to Come fame, cleverly brought to life the unsung women […]
June 10, 2019
When I was a young performing arts student living in Perth, I frequented the jazz bars and underground clubs scouring the city for the hip, sweet sounds of the ragtime blues. My housemate at the time was a jazz muso, so I had big band rehearsals in my house all the time. It’s safe to say, I have a soft spot for this style. Tonight, as part of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, we were packed like sardines in The Famous Spiegeltent, to see The Hot Sardines. With the house full sign out front, we were ready to be dazzled by this New York based jazz ensemble. Co-led by lead singer Elizabeth Bougerol and pianist Evan Palazzo, she tells the story of how they met at a jazz jam advertised on Craig’s List. She was looking for a piano player, but not just any piano player. One who knew and understood a particular song, Fats Waller ‘Your Feet’s too Big’. She asked Evan if he knew the song and the rest as they say, is history. […]
June 6, 2019
Like most little girls, my first memories of Judy Garland have something to do with a yellow brick road, an emerald city and red slippers. I watched in awe of this young girl skipping and singing her way into my heart and I too wanted to be part of her seemingly magical and perfect life. But End of the Rainbow doesn’t paint a pretty picture of Garland’s last days; instead it rips you through the bright lights and dark pits that tormented her, enabled her, and eventually killed her. The regal, old Royalty Theatre provided the perfect backdrop for The Ritz Hotel London, 1969, where Garland was preparing for a 5 week stint at Talk of the Town nightclub. Orchestrated and managed by her fifth and final husband, Mickey Deans, with her long suffering accompanist, Anthony Chapman, we watch the relationship between the three characters bounce between banter, comedy, hatred, power, joy, pain, love and truth. And bear witness to the mental and physical decline of the world’s darling. Peter Quilter’s worldwide smash brings to […]
May 27, 2019
Bringing my nearly 11 year old son, who has just moved schools and is making new friends, to a one woman show about the trials and tribulations of a young girls journey from childhood to adolescence, seemed very timely and opportune. I remember my twelve year old self as slightly sensitive, hopeful, emotional and enthusiastic and I suspect, after a few personal conversations with my own pre-pubescent son, he feels the same. Internationally acclaimed solo performer, Mary-Frances Doherty gives a remarkable and real performance of 12 year old Katie, who is very happy we all could attend her birthday party. She is disappointed her best friend, Tracy, couldn’t come – she was busy making an appearance at another party. To begin with, Katie is very flippant about Tracy not being able to be there, but by the end, she is openly and visibly upset; the least she could do was answer her calls, like her posts or share her videos! In a vulnerable, exposed and intimate horseshoe setting, we are thrown together to celebrate Katie’s […]
May 27, 2019
If you have children, and perhaps even if you don’t, you have almost definitely read The Gruffalo. A children’s classic by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler which has sold over 13 million copies, won several prizes for children’s literature, has an Oscar nominated animated film, it is now also the play which has had sell out seasons on Broadway and London’s West End. The story of The Gruffalo is based on a Chinese folk tale of a fox that borrows the terror of a tiger, however Donaldson was unable to think of rhymes for ‘tiger’ so instead invented a word that rhymes with ‘know’. And the rest, as they say, is history… The mouse’s tale is one that unfolds in two phases; whereby the mouse uses crafty tricks to circumvent danger. On his way through the deep dark wood, the mouse encounters several dangerous animals (a cunning fox, an eccentric, sergeant-type owl and a maraca wielding snake). Each of these animals, clearly intending to eat the mouse, invite him back to their home for a […]
March 18, 2019
March Productions debut musical offering, Barnum, is a night of triumph, energy and monumental talent. With a perfectly simple, but effective set we are transported to the 1800s, where Anna and Amy Beecher take us on a historical journey with pictures and artefacts of Barnum’s life as we take our seats. P.T Barnum truly was an intriguing man, with a knack for promotion and humbug. This sets the scene for the extravaganza we are about to experience. Our first introduction to Barnum is him running through the audience with gusto, to end up on stage and immediately breaking the 4th wall to narrate his story. I am instantly drawn into Jayden Prelc’s portrayal of Barnum – charismatic, magnetic, dynamic, not to mention his natural comedic timing and prodigious voice. He navigated the wordy script and musical numbers with such relish. A true and rare performer of his age, I anticipate a professional career in his near future. Watch this space. His Charity Barnum, played by Alana Iannace, was sublime. She had steely strength and independence, […]
January 27, 2019
Walking into the Bakehouse Theatre this evening was a burst of fresh air. No, literally. It was 45 degrees outside. And fittingly, I was going in to see Neil Simon’s Last of the Red Hot Lovers. This offering is the fourth for Starc Productions, Adelaide’s newest full-time professional theatre company, a collaboration between Marc Clement, Stefanie Rossi and theatre gem Tony Knight. Starc’s sentiment is to produce plays with minimal set design, thus allowing the actors to take, for lack of a better phrase, centre stage. This was evident upon entering the theatre – a clean, classic set in white and red. Stylised as such that the key timekeepers – the clock and telephone – were in bold red, while the couch and table were white. I liked the addition of the apples on the table; a suggestion of sexual seduction perhaps? Set in 1969, to the tunes of Bacharach, Barney Cashman, a middle aged, married, fish restaurateur, wishes to join the sexual revolution. Unbeknownst to him, it’s not that easy. In three acts we […]