Presented by
Canberra Repertory Society.
Theatre 3
until 5th July
Reviewed by
Bill Stephens
 |
| Ben Hardy - Liz de Totth- Michael Moore -Janelle McMenamin - Nathan Kellie |
Featuring
around forty of Jerry Herman’s best songs from eight of his most successful
Broadway shows, this production of “Showtune” boasts a hard-working ensemble
cast of twelve performers, including musical director, Leisa Keen.
The songs
are presented, not as scenes from the shows for which they were written, but
cleverly grouped to expose fresh nuances in the lyrics. They’re performed, without
connecting dialogue, on a stylish set designed by Andrew Kay, with lots of
colourful costumes by Christine Pawlicki, and some impressive, well-rehearsed ensemble
numbers, which have been cleverly staged by director, Jordan Kelly to disguise
the lack of dance skills in his well-drilled cast. The scene changes are
imaginative and snappy.
However,
“Showtune” is about the songs, and many of Herman’s songs were written to
showcase the talents of highly skilled Broadway star performers. Despite their
best efforts, no-one in this cast possesses either the vocal skills or stage
presence to do the solo songs justice. “Time Heals Everything” and “Shalom” expressively
performed by Leisa Keen, accompanying herself at the piano, point the way.
But despite
strong performances from Liz de Totth, Sarah Hull and Janelle McMenamin, and
entertaining moments from Ben Hardy, Nathan Kellie and John Kelly, it is Jordan
Kelly’s brilliantly staged and well-sung ensemble numbers that make this show
worth braving the Canberra cold.
