Review: The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals at Goodwood Theatre

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. Allycia Angeles’ choreography is dynamic, adding another layer of energy to the production.

The characters are well-crafted, blending humour with relatability.

Flynn Turley perfectly captures Paul’s awkwardness and initial reluctance to embrace musicals, but it’s his emotional journey that grounds the story.

Anna Symonds shines as Emma Perkins, the disenchanted barista. Her chemistry with Paul feels authentic, and their moments of connection are both heartfelt and touching.

Parisya Mosel delivers a great performance as Ted, the office jerk. Mosel nails the character’s sleazy attitude, and Ted’s affair with Charlotte adds a layer of complexity to his role as a villain. He’s both detestable and darkly funny.

Neve Sargeant is phenomenal in her triple roles, especially as Charlotte, a conflicted woman stuck in a failing marriage and an affair. Sargeant brings depth to Charlotte, making her sympathetic and tragic, while her impeccable comedic timing gleams.

Samuel Cannizzaro portrays Bill, a divorced father trying to reconnect with his daughter Alice. Cannizzaro brings heartfelt sincerity to the role, adding emotional intensity to the chaotic storyline.

Immi Beattie, in her triple roles as Alice, Zoey, and Greenpeace Girl, brings both rebellion and vulnerability to Alice, while Zoey is sharp-witted and playful. Beattie’s versatility is impressive.

Garvey as Professor Hidgens is superb who plays the character with a mix of paranoia, intellectualism and outright irrationality. His musical number ‘Show Stoppin’ Number’ is a standout, as he brings a sense of over-the-top theatricality to his performance. Garvey’s ability to switch between hilarious and unsettling is to be commended.

Harry Liam is a standout, bringing multiple characters to life with ease. As Mr. Davidson, he delivers a comedic yet menacing performance in “What Do You Want, Paul?” As Sam, the cheating husband, Liam’s performance of “Show Me Your Hands” brings the house down, and his portrayal of General MacNamara shows his range, combining authority with dry wit.

One of the show’s most impressive elements is how it balances its genres. The moments of genuine horror are offset by absurd comedy, creating a unique experience that keeps the audience engaged. This combination of dark and light moments makes for a thrilling ride.

The show also delivers sharp commentary on musicals, art, and conformity, blending horror and humour seamlessly. The ending, both chilling and darkly comic, highlights the show’s central message: no one is immune to the influence of the hive mind. While the conclusion may feel like a “musical apocalypse,” it’s a fitting reflection of how we’re all susceptible to the things we resist most.

The Guy Who Didn’t Like Musicals is a uniquely entertaining show that offers a fresh take on both the musical and horror genres. It’s quirky, dark, and full of songs that will stay with you long after the show ends. Whether you love musicals or “don’t like them,” this show proves that sometimes the things we least expect to enjoy leave the biggest impact.

Go see it and support this next generation of talent—you won’t regret it!

4.5 stars

Lia Loves.