Forbidden Broadway

Free Rain has presented a most entertaining evening full of Broadway fun and wicked humour which will appeal to fans of musicals and  those who have enjoyed (or endured!) personally being in productions. It is expertly directed by Anne Somes and musical director Nicholas Griffin. Jacquelyn Richards’ choreography is fun and vibrant (and particularly knowing for the Fosse tribute!)

The set is simple, lit well and versatile enough for the minimal props. Sound was consistently good. Acts come and go quickly, with these artists having the skill and ability to sketch a character, transform their voices and entertain the audience in the space of minutes. It is truly difficult to separate one fine singer from another and the casting was certainly strong.

Halimah Kyrgios was an amusing and almost uncanny Liza Minnelli, complete with dashing wig and mannerisms. Nicola Hall brought Barbra Streisand “Back to Broadway” with a vocal transformation. Tim Dal Cortivo’s rendition of “It’s Too High” (a.k.a. “Bring Him Home” from Les Miserables) showed his vocal experience and command of technique. Sian Harrington showed her comic timing and expression as Cosette, who, one must admit, really is “an obnoxious little waif”. David Spence made a great Phantom in “Mucous of the Night”, and Georgia Pike as Ethel Merman was a treat, coercing the Phantom to embrace singing in a true voice without effects.

This production is highly recommended and a fun evening for musical afficianados.

Rachel McGrath-Kerr

Photographer: Craig Burgess.