Fame The Musical

Fame The Musical is playing to enthusiastic Covid Capacity crowds at Crown Theatre. Locally produced by HAMA Productions, this is a bright and bounteous professional production that continues our Covid Legacy of top-notch locally produced musicals. Well directed by Adam Mitchell, it features a predominantly local cast that really pack a punch.

Playing on a multi-level single set, designed by Bryan Woltjen, trucks are used to create multiple locales, and the show flows well, dynamically lit by a design by Lucy Birkinshaw. Musical Director Harry Oliff leads a live band, visible on the second level. The show sounds great - with music and vocals both strong and an effective sound design from Jake Goodwill.

This class at the High School of Performing Arts is impressive. Rechelle Mansour is dynamic in the central role of Carmen, radiating energy and verve. New to Perth, G. Madison IV is loveable and lights up the stage as Tyrone Jackson. James Bell is great fun as Joe Vegas, with Greg Jarema genuine and sincere as Schlomo Metzenbaum. Taylah Small dances beautifully and gives Iris Kelly loads of charm.

A standout in her cohort at WAAPA, and blooming in her professional debut, Paige Fallu is a deserved audience favourite as Mabel Washington, while Elaina O’Connor is lovely as Serena Katz, creating a gorgeous onstage relationship with Isaac Diamond, a self-assured Nick Piazza. Ethan Churchill brings a strong portrayal to Goody, with Shanice-Kalina Thompson likeable and convincing as Lambchops.

Great work also from the staff at ‘PA’. Lucy Williamson brings great depth to English teacher Miss Sherman, with great conflict with Mia Simonette’s Ms Bell. Manuao TeAotonga is excellent as drama teacher Mr Meyers and Igor Sas is a solid Mr Sheinkopf.

A large and well drilled ensemble bring life, colour and some top-notch dance skills to the show - beautifully executing Dani Papa’s highly varied and clever choreography.

Fame is a show with a long legacy, and this production is a great combination of the familiar and unexpected. A polished and well-presented production that will not disappoint.

Kimberley Shaw