Miss Westralia

This “almost” World Premiere is a biographical musical about the first Miss Australia, Beryl Mills, from Geraldton WA, who was crowned in 1926. A musical with the same name, characters and basic concept, by the same authors premiered at FringeWorld 2018, but this version is different in tone and style and runs as a full length show.

A solid new local musical, with a great storyline and some lovely messages. Jake Nielsen and Matthew Predney’s composition is varied and catchy, with clever lyrics (Nielsen) and a jaunty but thoughtful book by Madeline Clouston. Dramaturgy by Amelia Burke is evident in this historical journey, with a modern outlook and feminist bent.

Helena Cielak is delightful in the title role, a sweet voiced girl-next-door with brains and beauty, and her likability and broad Australian accent quickly win the audience’s heart.

The other actors all play a major role, and a number of cameos. Grace Johnson is stunning as self-obsessed southern belle Miss America, Norma Smallwood, a mixture of honey and malice. Grace’s nasty Miss New South Wales and her Bronx accented telegram boy also provide some great moments. Rachael Chamberlain travels a lovely journey as Beryl’s mother Kitty, reluctant chaperone, come shopaholic, come strong support. Chameleon-like, Thomas Dimmick is convincing as millionaire Frank Packer.

All sing superbly under the musical direction of Christopher Milbourn, with Emily Star creating some clever choreography in the constricted space. The set, constructed by Étain Boscato, has some clever devices, and is one of the more fully realised sets at the Blue Room in recent years. Mai Han’s lighting design helps to create a variety of locales across Australia, the Pacific Ocean and the United States.

This warm tribute to a local little-known heroine is touching, clever and funny, with a good quality score. A must see for lovers of new musicals, history buffs and lovers of good female roles. Tickets are selling really quickly, so move fast.

Kimberley Shaw