Carrie

The musical Carrie is perhaps best known as being one of Broadway’s biggest flops, but in the hands of WAAPA’s Second Year Musical Theatre students, it was an unmitigated success. This cohort’s first public performance as an individual cohort, it was designed, built and crewed by WAAPA Production and Design Students, and accompanied by WAAPA Music Students.

Expertly directed by Tyler Jacob Jones, this was a strong production that deserved the buzz it generated. Strong musically under the guidance of Musical Director Vanitha Hart, creative choreography by Freya List was executed with precision and energy.

Stephanie Graham played the title role with quiet dignity and lovely depth, a sympathetic characterisation that had a gentle strength. Kimberly Rose brought maturity and an underlying feeling of unease to the role of Margaret White, Carrie’s zealous God-fearing mother.

The other leading role, and perhaps the role most accessible to the audience, is that of Sue Snell. Hannah Chesser was outstanding as this conflicted teen, in a beautifully crafted performance. Sue’s boyfriend, Tommy Ross, who at Sue’s insistence asks Carrie to the Prom, was played with charm and grace by Ty Arnott.

Christina Anastasiadis was convincing and commanded the stage as bully and mean girl Chris Hargensen, while Sebastian Cruise, until now always cast as sweet boy-next-door types, revels in bad boy Billy Nolan, in a very strong performance. Great work also from the teachers, played by Hanna Bourke and Nye Morrison, while this talented cast made the most of smaller and ensemble roles.

Josh McNeil’s striking set design consisted mostly of large overhead lights, used to create magic and tension, with the assistance of Lighting Designer Matt Roberts. Sound designer Michael Fletch and Composer Amaru Zachariessen created fabulous storm effects that continued through the interval.

A production of an excellent standard that augers well for this cohort’s final year. A joy to watch.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Stephen Heath