Company

After a particularly fraught opening, and delays caused by Covid in the cast then bushfire evacuation, Wanneroo Repertory finally opened their quality production of Company. Now playing to capacity crowds, this is a superbly sung, expertly acted show.

On the evening of his 35th birthday, Robert, the lone bachelor in his friend group, surrounded by his crazy couple friends, contemplates whether to wish for a romantic partner or to be happy with his situation.

Playing on a simple multi-level set, designed by Mark Nicholson, Company, apart from central character, is played in monochrome, with set, properties, and costumes, all in black and white, giving this a sophisticated New York vibe.

Musical Director Taui Pinker leads an excellent eleven-piece band, supporting the top-notch vocal performances - although on Opening Night (having had limited tech rehearsal during to ongoing issues) microphones were not always live when they should be, leading to performers sometimes singing unmixed.

David Wallace gives a strong central performance as Robert, putting great emotion into his ballads and delivering a very genuine portrayal. He feels detached or separate from the remaining characters, seeming isolated in a crowd, which I feel is deliberate, and adds depth to his portrayal.

The most mature couple Joanne and Larry are played with great teamwork by Jane Anderson, whose “The Ladies Who Lunch”, was gorgeously cynical and delivered beautifully, and Chris Bedding whose nightclub dancing is something to be seen. Peter and Susan, whose relationship is not what we expect, were played well by Marshall Brown and Aleisha Archer - bouncing nicely off each other.

Genevieve Newman’s dieting Sarah, and on-the-wagon husband Harry, played with skill by Andrew Brown, are relatable and funny. Grace Johnson as the sweet and square Jenny and Charlie Darlington as her loving husband David make a beautiful couple whose love and affection feel tangible.

About to be married Amy, a fabulously frenetic Madeleine Shaw, and her steady and upright fiancé are brilliant together and their Getting Married Today, joined by Grace Johnson and her superb soprano voice was a showstopper - earning mid-song applause at several points.

The trio of girlfriends were a delight, acing You Could Drive a Person Crazy, with Tatum Stafford lovely as conservative Kathy, Charlotte Louise good fun as bohemian Marta and Erin Craddock giving an intelligent portrayal of ditzy April.

Peter Giles’ lighting design has moments of great poignance although timing was a little out at the first performance.

Choreography usually isn’t at the forefront of a Sondheim musical, but Connie Wetherilt has choreographed with flair – especially in “Side by Side”, and her work is well executed by the cast throughout.

Company has a well-deserved buzz and is a great choice for those who love Sondheim, or simply a well performed musical without sparkles. A great show.