Written by
Elise McCann and Richard Carroll
Musical
Direction by Michael Tyack
Musical
Arrangements by Stephens Amos
Space
Theatre – 17th June 2017
Reviewed by
Bill Stephens OAM
Elise McCann
won Helpmann and Sydney Theatre Awards for her portrayal of Miss Honey in the
Australian production of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s adaptation of Roald
Dahl’s “Matilda”. “Matilda” is currently playing in the Festival Theatre in
Adelaide, but with Lucy Maunder playing Miss Honey.
Apparently still
smitten with the Roald Dahl bug, McCann has collaborated with Richard Carroll,
Stephen Amos and Michael Tyack to devise this witty, stylish tribute to Dahl,
in which she gives a performance which is pure star-quality from beginning to
end.
 |
| Elise McCann |
Every inch
the diva in elegant white slacks and top, with a detachable white overskirt
monogrammed in black with Dahlisms which serves as a handy prop, McGann took
command of the stage from her first entrance, immediately involving her
audience in her brilliantly conceived exploration of the quirky world of Roald
Dahl.
Drawing on
songs from a variety of sources including “Matilda”, “Willy Wonka”, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” and
“James and the Giant Peach”, as well as some delightful original compositions by
Stephen Amos for Dahl’s “Revolting Rhymes”, McCann held her audience entranced with
her impeccable diction, both in word and song, and perfectly honed stagecraft.
She
introduced them to Dahl’s curious invented words, performed some samples of his
writing, and then proceeded with revelations of the events and experiences,
some quite moving, which made up his fascinating world. Throughout the telling
she sprinkled in songs like Bricusse and Newley’s “Pure Imagination” and
“Oompa, Loompa”, Shaiman and Wittman’s “It Must be Believed to be Seen”, and
Tim Minchin’s “Naughty”, “The Smell of Rebellion” and “My House”, at perfectly
judged moments.
A classy
nine-piece orchestra, conducted from the piano by Michael Tyack, did full
justice to Stephen Amos’ superb musical settings, and director, Richard Carroll
added his own special magic with imaginative lighting, star cloths and
stationery mirror balls.
“Dahlesque”
is a magically conceived and presented show with special moments for every member
of the family. It will be touring so make
sure you don’t miss it when it comes to your city.
This review first published in AUSTRALIAN ARTS REVIEW. www.artsreview.com.au