Curtains

From the creative minds behind Chicago and Cabaret, Kander and Ebb's Curtains is, at its core, a celebration of the stage, made by theatre makers for theatre makers.

Koorliny Arts Centre's latest production of the musical comedy whodunnit highlights exactly that, producing a whirlwind performance that pays homage to all the best theatrical tropes, on and off the stage.

The story follows the development of new original musical 'Robbin Hood', when cast members are left shocked by the death of their leading lady on opening night.

Met with less than satisfactory reviews, the cast and crew are held captive in their theatre as the murder is investigated, all the while trying to revise their show in the process.

On the case is Leutenant Frank Cioffi, brought to life by Timothy Tyrie who is equal parts dorky and lovable as the knowing detective who not-so-secretly longs to be a part of the world of the arts.

Erin Craddock shines as his counterpart, the sweet young ingenuine Niki Harris - the pair's Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers moment late in act two bringing the duo’s sublime vocals and palpable connection to the forefront as their characters received a well deserved moment in the spotlight.

Thrust into the limelight to replace the leading lady is the show within the show's lyricist Georgia Hendricks, played expertly by Grace Johnson.

Johnson's vocals rightfully draw people in, commanding the stage during the tender ‘Thinking of Him’, while she also acts well to reignite the spark with husband and writing partner Aaron Fox, played with perfect sincerity by William Fosket. who gives a memorable performance of ‘’I Miss the Music’.

Also a highlight was ‘Robbin Hood’ production team, Christopher Alvaro and Lucy Eyre in the roles of director Christopher Belling and producer Carmen Bernstein respectively.

Alvaro was a clear audience favourite as the theatre crazed director, exuding confidence and passion for his craft with every fibre of his being, while Eyre complemented him, perfectly showcasing Bernstein's sharp, go-getting attitude.

Though this reviewer could individually praise all members of the cast, it is evident director Kimberley Shaw worked closely with her players to develop their characterisation to the nth degree, with even the ensemble members giving a layered, studied performance of their characters, ensuring audiences members will be enthralled wherever they look on the stage.

The vocals in this production are to be commended, Taui Pinker and Tara Oorjitham guiding the cast through a variety of different genres, maintaining crisp, clean harmony work throughout, all coming to a head in  eleven o'clock number 'In the Same Boat', which will tickle the minds of even the most musically learned.

Choreography throughout is polished and effective, Connie Wetherilt acing the many different styles from square to rag, not missing a beat when taking the stage herself at this particular performance.

While act one closer ‘Thataway’ was a lively display, it was ultimately the tap-tastic show stopper ‘A Tough Act To Follow’ that was undoubtedly the shows best kept secret, showcasing the entire cast’s triple threat abilities.

Whether you’re a 'show person' or not this production is a showcase of the exceptional talent in Perth that will keep you guessing until the final curtain call.

Guest reviewer

Images (from top): Vaugh Lowe, Lucy Eyre, Grace Johnson and William Fosket; Erin Craddock and Timothy Tyrie as Niki Harris and Lt. Frank Cioffi and the cast of Curtains, the musical comedy whodunnit.