Review: Jack Maggs at Dunstan Playhouse
November 21, 2024
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 pieces were energetic, featuring impressive dance sequences and crisp, harmonious vocals. The costumes were striking, complemented by stunning lighting and projections, thanks to the outstanding work of Jen Frith, Andrea Prime, Ray Cullen, and Campbell Lawrence.
The show opened with The Book of Mormon, featuring the full ensemble of Latter-Day Saints. The comedy and vocals were top-notch, particularly the performances by Reo Gerhardy and Leo Sage as Elder Price and Elder Cunningham in “You and Me [And Mostly Me].”
Next, the junior students presented a selection from Annie, highlighted by a beautiful solo from Harper Di Rubbo in “Opportunity,” followed by a lively performance of “The Hard Knock Life,” with the delightful Eliza Brumby as Annie. Senior students Sophie Fonovic, Alex Collins, and Georgia Sykes (Miss Hannigan, Rooster, and Lily St. Regis) delivered a polished rendition of “Easy Street.”
Alumni Stephanie Cole captivated the audience with her interpretation of “Tomorrow,” which was nothing short of extraordinary and a true reflection of her reputation as a sought-after vocalist.
Roaring On from The Great Gatsby Musical dazzled with a glittering gold and silver display, while some of the energy seemed muted. Nevertheless, Jack Keukenmeester as Nick Carraway led the ensemble with confidence. Amelia Boys’ performance of “For Better or For Worse” was heartfelt and tender.
The next set, from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, featured a talented group of junior performers singing “The Letter/Golden Ticket,” “Oompa Loompa,” “Queen of Pop,” and “Juicy.” Standout performances included Mayah Brook as Charlie, Evie Drew as Violet Beauregarde, Edison Love as Mr. Beauregarde, and Mimi Broomhall as Willy Wonka.
Act Two opened with the grandeur of The Lion King, where costumes took center stage, particularly the giraffes on stilts. The choreography, especially in “Shadowland,” was captivating, and the performances of Kayla Symonds as Nala and Eryn Crane as Rafiki were nothing short of magical.
The senior students brought Guys and Dolls to life with renditions of “Luck Be A Lady,” “Take Back Your Mink,” “Follow the Fold,” and “Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat.”
A personal favorite musical, the cast fully embodied the period’s style and dance moves, with Liam Goodes’ portrayal of Sky Masterson showcasing excellent vocal work. The show-stopping number “Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat,” featuring alumni Josh Angeles as Nicely Nicely, had the audience roaring with applause.
The following junior performance from Beetlejuice was playful and vibrant, even though its subject matter dealt with death. Standout performances included Edison Love as Beetlejuice and Lila Messenger as Lydia, with Messenger’s performance of “Home” being particularly moving.
The evening concluded with a thrilling mash-up of &Juliet and SIX! The Musical. As a fan of both productions, I was thoroughly impressed with how the seniors executed these numbers. Asher Gordon, Abi Sharp, and Chloe Molineux portrayed Shakespeare, Juliet, and Angelique with finesse.
The six ex-wives of Henry VIII, performed by Maddie McNicol, Jasmine Huynh, Chloe Dowd, Amelie-Rose Kemp, Piper Kuzniecow, and Amali Noble, were nothing short of exceptional in their vocal, dance, and acting performances. Dowd’s version of “Heart of Stone” was particularly remarkable, with her emotional depth and vocal precision on full display.
The show’s finale, a moving collaboration of alumni performers singing “From Now On,” left the opening night audience on their feet, applauding the incredible talent on display.
Kudos to Pelican Productions!
Adelaide is fortunate to have such a dedicated organization nurturing the future stars of musical theatre.
4 stars
Lia Loves.
