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South Pacific
Presented by: Nova Music Theatre
Venue: The Whitehorse Centre, Nunawading
Reviewer:
Melissa Trickey
– Theatre People Editor
Date Reviewed: Friday 23rd October 2009
Say
what you like about Rogers and Hammerstein but they have sold lots
more albums, tickets and music books than you! Their musicals have
stood the test of time and then some. Our best known and loved
performers have starred in them, plus, people who like sport at
least know them! It's that typical story, Americans on a South
Pacific Island, girl is a Nurse, girl meets French guy who lives on
the Island, girl falls in love, girl finds out that guy has two
children through a native woman, girl leaves guy, guy goes on deadly
secret war mission and girl realises that she loves him despite her
racial prejudices and they live happily ever after (once it's
established that he's not dead). Yes it's rather old fashioned, but
the way it deals with said issues of racial prejudices is actually
quite pioneering when you consider when it was written.
It
was my pleasure to be the guest of Nova for their opening, who I
must mention, put on a lovely Gala Supper! Overall I was quite
impressed with the standard of the production. It is evident that
Nova have been doing this for a long time, as their patronage and
their elaborate sets and costumes suggest. The set pieces were
mainly flats flown via the fly tower, with a view minor set piece
here and there, and a back drop. The painting and detail were
absolutely breath taking, the scenic painting was just to die for,
and not like anything I've seen in amateur shows lately! Yes its
pretty old school, but, so lovely to look at. I don't usually find I
enjoy just looking at sets, but this one I sure did! However, the
actual set pieces were quite awkward to place on stage; this was
evident by the rather large number of crew and the length of the
scene changes. Perhaps a slicker (not necessarily more contemporary,
but perhaps a touch more minimal) design with less small components
would speed things up. Congratulations to Barry Pearce on a lovely
design.
Lighting was Jason Bovaird, and therefore accordingly spectacular.
Some wonderful effects with movers and different colours really
enhanced the romantic scenes, and some intense blinders made the
plane very exciting, if not retina-burning! Costumes were
appropriate, well fitting and lovely to look at from Stephanie Lumb.
Props were also in the same vain. As much as I don't like saying
negative things, the sound was not up to the high standard of the
other technical production aspects. Mics were in and out all night.
Not working or not turned up, not turned off when cast were of
stage, feedback... From what I hear from my sources, it goes to show
you are best to avoid using new equipment for Opening Nights! A
shame as it did detract from the performance, and it's such a shame
for the cast. Hopefully the issues are ironed out as the season goes
on.
Noel Brown has done a great job of directing the cast around the
stage and he constantly attracts great people as his leading
players, an indication of his experience. Di Crough's choreography,
although not overly creative, was pleasant and well executed. She
produced routines that were appropriate for the cast's capabilities.
John Clancy put together a smashing orchestra and the singing was
top notch.
Now
for my highlights: the two leading players, Megan Coe as Nellie and
Zak Brown as Emile. They were just beautiful together and apart! I
have seen Zak in mostly comedy roles previously, and am pleased to
report he's just as good at the serious stuff! His booming voice
handled the many million reprises of “Some Enchanted Evening” with
ease, and he was an absolute delight to watch. His Emile was an
absolute gentleman, so kind and so brave. Megan was the consummate
professional with the bulk of the mic problems happening to her, but
I could still hear her from O Row when it cut out! She was a joyous
Nellie. Her energy and her vivacity were a pleasure to watch, as was
her wonderful song and dance numbers!!! The girl's got some stamina.
She also handled some difficult emotional material with such ease.
Rejecting someone's love for the race of their children is almost
incomprehensible in this day and age, but Megan made this part of
Nellie believable.
Megan and Zak were a beautiful on stage couple. Their chemistry was
genuine as they supported and bounced off each other. They sure got
me where I lived.... I lapped them up like a Kitty does Milk!
Congratulations two the two of you, you were stunning.
The
two were supported by an array of ensemble and supporting leads.
Anne Dewar was charming as the island woman Bloody Mary. Her
dialogue delivery, physicality and flawless accent meant her
character was clear cut and strong. I just thought that her lovely
voice was wasted with only two songs to sing... Charming yes, but a
little alarming with all the swearing! Well, I'm sure the word
“bastard” was a massive deal back in the day...
Matt Jakowenko gave a very sensitive and touching portrayal of
Lieutenant Cable.... and, let's face it, the old grannies were not
disappointed with the shirtless action. As our Matty J, as we know,
is a very nice specimen of a man.... David Sly was full of energy
and gave a most entertaining performance of Billis. A different kind
of shirtless action indeed, but I must say I did have a chuckle at
Dave in rather ridiculous costume!
The
ensemble gave it their all, I must give special mentions to two
though: Mengxi Hu was a graceful Liat, and Dominic Jackman as
Captain Brackett gave a very strong performance.
If
you haven't got tickets for the remaining shows, too bad I think, as
Nova have pretty much sold out! Congratulations to all on a lovely
presentation.
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