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Relationship 101
13th November,
2008
By Renee Maloney
 We
all have different ways of dealing with our relationships. Some of
us talk to our partners, some of us turn to our parents, and some of
us chat with our friends… PEP are putting it onstage!
In its upcoming variety show—cheekily called I’m Perfect, I’ll
Change You, That’s Love!—PEP Productions puts the spotlight on
relationships.
Featuring a young and energetic cast performing an eclectic mix of
classic and current Broadway show tunes, the show highlights some of
the most familiar situations facing couples today. “We decided to
tackle a relationship-themed show because it has such wide appeal,”
says director Julia Roper. “From dating to love tiffs and weddings
to married life, I am convinced there will be at least one moment
where the action on stage is all too familiar.” But while the show
is light-hearted and comical, it’s not all “champagne and roses”
says Roper.
“We wanted to give the show more depth by exploring non-conventional
relationships, infidelity, heartache and attempts at
reconciliation,” she explains. “We also look at self-image,
rejection, communication breakdowns, and long distance
relationships.” “With so many different scenarios on offer, I guess
it gives the audience a chance to step back and see the drama that
plays out in their own relationships.”
I
caught up with Julia Roper and Vicki Barden to discuss the show.
Where did the idea for the show come from?
After our last variety show, "A PEP Perspective", the audience voted
on what show they would like PEP to do next. The outcome was "I
Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change". We needed to raise funds to
do that show in 2009 (well, that's the plan anyway!), so decided
upon a 'teaser' "I'm Perfect, I'll Change You, That's Love"
How did the choice of songs come about?
The theme of relationships was a given, but we decided to broaden
our musical selection by incorporating various genres eg, jazz and
pop as well as contemporary theatre and old classic songs.
What are the aim/advantages of a production like this?
The advantages are raising much needed funds, but also a variety
show allows performers an opportunity to be featured as prominent
soloists, plus performers are given a variety of characters to sink
their teeth into. Variety concerts often appeal to a broader
demographic than music theatre supporters alone. The other advantage
is that we have more freedom to be able to create the journey for
cast and audience to share.
What are the highlights of the production?
We have a cast of outstanding performers who bring a range of
characters to life. We've taken a fresh approach to many of the
songs, which compliment our take on issues relationships often face.
The performance will be acoustic, rather than amplified, which
brings its own intimacy to the show. The vocal quality, balance and
energy that the cast produce, are a dynamic combination that the
audience is sure to appreciate. Our tight 3 piece band completes the
overall experience. The rollercoaster of emotions that the solos
take you on are poignant and thought provoking.
How is it different from previous PEP variety shows?
PEP has previously performed one variety concert, "A PEP
Perspective". It was based around having a selection of songs from
numerous shows to give you a "preview" in order to vote for PEP's
next production. "I'm Perfect, I'll Change You, That's Love" has
taken songs out of context to piece together a commentary on
different forms relationships can take.
Cast:
Glen
Barnett
Jen Biggs
Kate Burns
Latecha Cadle
Felicity Eastwood-Tromp
Karlie Gooding
Eleanor Horsburgh
JC La Fontaine
Krystal Shute
Suzanne Tate
Jenter Zilm
When:
Thursday
November 20, 8pm
Friday November 21, 8pm
Saturday, November 22, 3pm
Saturday November 22, 8pm
Where:
Doncaster Playhouse,
679 Doncaster Road, Doncaster
Melways Map 47 E1
Tickets:
$25
flat rate
Bookings:
0423
935 320 or
pep.productions06@gmail.com
(please leave a contact number)
For
more information visit www.pepproductions.org.au
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