Disney Mulan Jr.

Phoenix Theatre have created what I believe is their best youth musical to date, with the feel-good show Mulan Jr. A beautiful looking junior production with a lot of heart.

A vibrant young cast of 25 keep busy all evening, with all but the two central characters playing multiple roles, with quick changes of Jayde Clark and Sarah Brooks bright costumes in abundance. The multi-level Chinese set (Jayde Clark and Daniel Muller) provides elegance and atmosphere.

The central characters are a delight. Ebony Uetake makes a lovely leading lady, capturing both the sweet voice and gentle nature of Mulan, as well as her inner warrior. There is outstanding teamwork with Jacob Clayton who makes the dragon Mushu his own, with a fiery, high energy and vey likeable performance.

Edzelle Abrio brings depth to Captain Shang - allowing him to grow, while Mulan’s army friends are a delightful trio with great teamwork from Mason Cailes-Spence (a great smile), David Bell (a notable stage presence) and Ffion Bishop (nice timing).

The ancestors, Laura Foster, Lowri Bishop, Georgia O’Dea, Kika Van Wilde and Lara Wood also demonstrate good teamwork, and Mulan’s family are a nice unit. Evan Bishop makes strong distinctions between his characters Fa Zhou (Mulan’s gentle father) and the ruthless Hun leader Shan-Yu, Ella John is a gentle mother as Fa Li and tiny, funny Sarah Cosgriff, perhaps the youngest female cast member, is an inspired casting choice as Grandma Fa.

The characterisation in the smaller roles is precise. Daniella Torres relishes the officious Chi-Fu, Mia Brogden gives the Matchmaker a nice nastiness, and Lunar Har Paz makes the most of the Cheongsam seller. Good work from Lexi Baggaley and RJ Calton (punching well above his weight) as the Hun soldiers Subar Tu and Sabur Tu.

James Leber plays Chen nicely and Harrison Ricci brings an impressive imperial air and a gorgeous Higginsing of his song, to The Emperor. Sade Oyasope, Sienna Law, Delanie Young and Zoe Bartle complete the cast.

Choreography by Rachel Vonk, is executed with precision and vocal director Samantha Ferguson has clearly worked hard to bring out the best in these young performers.

Mulan Jr. is a pleasure to watch and will bring joy to audiences of all ages. A short and sweet show, perfect for a family treat.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographs: JS Photography and Imaging.