Words and Music by Stephen Sondheim - Book by James Lapine
Directed by
Richard Block -Musical
Direction by Damien Slingsby
Choreography
by Kathryn Jones
Presented by
Dramatic Productions in association with ANU School of Music
Gungahlin College
Community Theatre until 12th September 2015.
Reviewed by
Bill Stephens
Stephen Sondheim’s brilliant musical exploring beyond the “happily ever after” of favourite fairy tale characters to uncover lives which don’t necessarily have a happy ending, places considerable demands on the actors playing those characters, as well as the audience, because, as with all Sondheim musicals, it demands good vocal technique and excellent enunciation from the actors.
It says much
for the success of Richard Block’s impressive production, that most of his
cast meet these demands, with
enthusiastic, well delineated characterisations which not only allow the
audience to savour Sondheim’s brilliant lyrics, but which capture the humour as
well as the darkness inherent in Lapine’s intriguing, convoluted storyline.
Among the
strong ensemble cast, Veronica
Thwaites-Brown as the Baker’s Wife, Sian
Harrington as Little Red Riding Hood, Phillipa Murphy as Cinderella, and
Alexander Clubb as Cinderella’s Prince who was “bred to be charming, not
sincere”, all give strong
performances. Kelly Roberts is
outstanding as The Witch, both before and after her transformation, making
every line of her dialogue count, and singing her difficult songs superbly.
Colourful
costumes and props, together with an impressive set, courtesy of Victorian
Opera, add sheen to the production. Full marks also to musical director, Damien
Slingsby, who accomplishes an excellent balance between the singers and
orchestra. An added bonus is the opportunity to sample Gungahlin College’s cosy
new community theatre.
This review first published in the digital edition of "CITY NEWS" on 29th August and in the print edition on 2nd September 2015.
