The Drowsy Chaperone

WAAPA's third year Music Theatre students performed The Drowsy Chaperone with relish, seemingly having a ball bringing this Tony Award musical to WA for the first time.

Outstanding performances abounded in this clearly directed, beautifully presented homage to old-style musicals.

Ashley Roussety bonded warmly with the audience in the central role of 'Man in Chair' who shares his love for the 1927 show "The Drowsy Chaperone" as his imagination transforms his apartment into the original staging.

Melissa Russo delights in appropriately over-playing dotty socialite Mrs Tottendale gloriously. Her butler, known only as Underling, is nicely played, with understanding by Jens Radda.

Matthew Manahan makes a handsome hero as Robert, performing with precision, especially when working with charming friend George, very well played by Mikey Halrow. Love interest Janet, was played very sweetly by Stephanie Wall who packed a punch in her show-stopping songs.

Theatre producer Feldzieg was nicely nailed by Andre Drysdale, while his sexy but silly companion was played brilliantly by Christina Odam.

Dancing gangsters Samuel Welsh and Hayden Baum delighted the audience with well timed comedy, Jason Arrow was very funny as Latin Lover Adolpho and Embla Bishop was lovely in her last minute appearance as Trix.

The title role did not disappoint - with Stefanie Caccamo outstanding as The Drowsy Chaperone giving a performance with star power and amazing vocals.

A strong ensemble gave great energy to every moment.

The seven piece orchestra under the guidance of David King, played faultlessly.

Set and costume designer beautifully brought the 1920s to life before our eyes with the costumes, set and properties beautifully constructed by WAAPA students. Lighting, designed by Luke Ioppolo was gorgeously theatrical, while sound was expertly designed by Alex Toland. A production team of fifty-five, many of whom are students at WAAPA, seem to have worked with a clear, shared vision to produce a show that was seamless and tight.

The Drowsy Chaperone was a wonderful show that was a joy to watch.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Jon Green