Band Geeks

Black Box’s Australian premiere of Band Geeks is a fun musical celebration of geekiness, the joy of teamwork and music, performed by a top notch cast, in a well realised, high energy production.

In a show about bands, a great quality brass band was a must, and Musical Director Chadwich Beins has managed to cram an 11 piece band into very limited space backstage, and have them create great sound.

The on-stage band may not actually play instruments, but also create amazing sound. Central character Elliot Goodman, tuba player and leader of the “Marching Beavers” anchors the show beautifully in a performance that combines gorgeous vocal tones with ultimate geekiness. His best friend, flautist Laura is with loveable awkwardness by Tayah Crothers. Handsome newcomer with a bad reputation, Jake Fowler, is portrayed with style by Josh Spencer-Pepper, while Asha Vivian allows “hot girl” baton twirler, Nicole (gorgeous but too annoying to be a cheerleader), to be more than just a pretty face.

Ashley Garner stands out as joker Spitz, a perfect foil for serious exchange student Natalia Vosavich, played by Stephanie Shaw, in a lovely pairing. Saskia Ware is a great contrast as goth girl Molly, while Cooper Jenkins adds light as campy Alvin Freeman. Sebastian Coe nicely handles the complex character of Stewart Dixon, unveiling a strong tenor.

Lovely support from Liam Telcik as Kyle Watson, Aaliyah Thompson as Jessie and Imogen Dearlove as Jordan. Choreographers Bianca and Maddi Thomas, who have worked wonders and created excellent formations (and some great geekiness) on the tiny stage, pull double duty as flag girls Felicia and Valerie.

The “grownup” characters also deserve a special mention. Matilda Jenkins (Sue Hornsby) and director Katherine Freind as Principal Gayle Dixon, both took on their roles just four days before opening night. Their roles were fully realised and seemed to be “meant to be” in impressive performances. Kelsey Zampino is solid as Principal’s Assistant Joyce.

Performing on an almost bare stage (the minimalist design by George Boyd and Katherine Freind working well), the settings were created with projections by Blake Jenkins, and lighting and sound design by John Spurling and Don Allen. Michaela Pavlov’s costume design includes some excellent surprises.

Black Box’s vibrant production may inspire other companies to attempt this fun and different musical - a great choice for a young, talented company.

Kimberley Shaw