Daniel Koek – Bringing Him Home With His West End Story

West End sensation Daniel Koek is an Adelaide boy who has come home to perform highlights from his roles in musical theatre. Seated in a makeshift cabaret venue that was constructed on the Festival Theatre stage was ingenious and worked very well. A packed house full of anticipation and hometown enthusiasm was a great welcome to this incredible talent.

Looking suave in his three piece suit Koek took us on a musical journey, with an honesty that was refreshing. Retelling his story of ambition and challenging experiences through words and music was both inspiring and entertaining. Koek is a man who has clearly worked hard for his success and we the audience were lucky enough to witness the fruits of his labour.

Songs from The Phantom of the Opera, Chess, South Pacific, West Side Story and Les Miséerables and a couple of gems from his latest album High showcased a voice that was controlled and demonstrated a broad range for a tenor. His use of pitch and intonation accurately displayed emotion that transcended to a moved crowd.

I am sure the standing ovation was no surprise to Koek; a performer of this calibre is bound to be in the industry for years to come.

Kerry Cooper

Photographer: Leo Holden.