Altar Boyz

Altar Boyz is set at the last concert of the tour of the Catholic boy band, “Altar Boyz”. We not only get to see the fabulous concert, performed by the quintet of boys - Matthew, Mark, Luke, Juan, and Abraham (Abraham is Jewish) but we join their quest to save souls, find the history of the band and get to know this very interesting group of young men.

These are some impressive young performers who can dance up a storm (the choreography from Jessica Ashton is top-notch and very well executed) and produce excellent, “classic boy band” harmonies (vocal coaching from Bec Pearce). Tangible rapport from this cast, that replicates the ten-year relationship of the band.

Sebastian Cruse brings lead-singer charm and low-key swagger to the role of Matthew, in a beautifully crafted performance. Matthew Hourigan brings great fun and flamboyance to the role of Mark, and his confession of his secret (not the one you’d expect), is a highlight of the show. Nicholas Cruse gives street cred and edginess to fresh-out-of-rehab (for exhaustion) Luke, with beautiful portrayals of Luke’s thought processes. Anthony Garcia gives Latin American sex appeal and expertly accented delivery to Juan. Ethan Churchill - in one of the quickest show-to-show turn arounds we have seen (having closed Avenue Q the night before this opened) gives Abraham credence and depth, in a very likeable performance.

Sharing a base set with sibling production Avenue Q, the upper tier of this multi-level set (designed by Olivia Collier) is used to house the band - the talented Emily Gelineau, Joel Bass, Ben Griffith, and Nikki Gray (who interact nicely at times). The rock concert vibe is aided by lighting design from Richard Timms.

While previous productions of Altar Boyz have faced criticism for mocking the Catholic Church (the satire is loving and never blasphemous), this one has attracted some abuse from people that assume this is an actual religious boy band that would support the current discrimination debate. This queer-friendly show is unlikely to actually offend anyone, but sends some lovely messages of tolerance, love, brotherhood, and acceptance.

A little Fringe World hit that wasn’t getting the capacity audiences it deserves, if you are praying for a great night out, Altar Boyz is the answer to your prayers.

Kimberley Shaw

Images: Amanda Humphreys Photography