Maisie

This fun-sized musical for kids deserved a longer run, playing just four matinee performances on the opening days of the Fringe World festival.

For those who remember the early days of Barking Gecko, this was a step back in time, with a packed studio and children seated on the floor at the front. A warm family experience and a lovely first theatre experience for some.

Teenage Maisie wears jeans, has a messy bedroom and plays Candy Crush, but is also a princess. On the morning of her 16th birthday she learns that she has been cursed, and that unless she is married by the end of the day (gasp) ….her bottom will pop. The search is on to find her a suitable prince.

Belinda Cox, with a beautiful classical voice, is a likeable and relatable Maisie, who is accompanied on her adventure by her best friends, the dim-witted Tess (Clare McMath - with lovely timing) and Cam, played by the gorgeous George O’Doherty - who morphs into a leading man.

Lovely work from a very prim and proper King and Queen (Callum Vinsen and Sylvia Cornes, a delightfully dastardly witch (Jillian Halleron), and a trio of humourously unsuitable suitors (Jamie Jackson, Bayley Horne and Scarlet Davis).

A cast of children (there are two casts) accompany each performance, playing witchlings, paparazzi and fans. Great performances from all in the afternoon Forest team, who were well drilled, energetic and focused.

There is an obvious market for this type of theatre in Perth, and Maisie was very well received. Congratulations to all involved.

Kimberley Shaw

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