Madagascar: A Musical Adventure Jr.

Gosford Musical Society Juniors never cease to amaze their audiences with well produced shows, and Madagascar Jr is no different. A musical based on the 2005 animated film may seem like a strange choice for a stage adaption, but in an era where every second Disney movie is hitting Broadway, it hardly comes as a surprise - it’s sure to be a hit with both young and old.

Director Matty Johnston has assembled a highly energetic cast of 50 young emerging artists to bring the show to the Central Coast stage for the first time. Matty’s direction keeps the show moving along at a brilliant pace. Aided by the dynamic vocals under the baton of Vivienne McLaren, and sensational choreography created by Jess Sillince.

Tom Kelly as Alex, Erin Hobden as Gloria, Scotia Emmett as Marty and Liam Barbeler as Melman carry the show with professionalism and skill well beyond their years. Allegra Hall as King Julien has perfect comic timing. Keegan Morley leads what appears to be a never-ending raft of adorable Penguins.

Madagascar is as colourful as it is energetic. Costumes by Kerrie Fuller, lighting by Damien Rice, and Set and Projection by Beck Johnston, provide a rich and vivid world in which these young people can shine.

The Broadway Jr shows often sacrifice the concept of ‘the ensemble’ in favour of making sure everyone gets a moment in the spotlight within the 60(ish) minute run time, but that’s not noticeable in this production even if there are many bit parts throughout the script. Gosford Musical Society Juniors has once again done what it does best: staged a family friendly show, that’s created by a tightknit family.

Joshua Maxwell