Reviews

The Magic Kazoo is the latest in a series of operas adapted and produced by Freeze Frame Opera for Primary School students. Whereas previous shows have adapted familiar stories or used opera music to shape known stories, The Magic Kazoo aims to capture the elements that make The Magic Flute enchanting, while creating a short opera story that appeals to young audiences.

This is a timely new Australian play centred on mental health.

The central character is Anna, an eighteen year-old who has been on medication since as long as she can remember. The play opens with Anna, appearing quite normal, establishing a relationship with Oliver, a male friend. In the background is Anna’s protective mother Renee who encourages the relationship. However, Anna decides not to take her medication anymore and discovers that as a child she had a promising writing talent, a talent that seems to have been suffocated by medication.

The Australian Premiere of Evil Dead the Musical is a schlocky, blood-filled parody of the Evil Dead series and horror movies in general. Self-aware, and not taking itself very seriously, it is well-directed with high production values and a talented cast and crew.

“We Will Rock You” was one of Queen’s most famous songs and a beloved moment where the crowd joins to pulse to that oh-so-familiar rhythm. It has also been picked up at numerous sports events, which is fitting. The song was reportedly inspired by a crowd singing a footy chant.