Murder on the Magic School Bus
Murder on the Magic School Bus is a loving parody of the 1990s cartoon series The Magic School Bus and the book series of the same name by Joanna Cale and Bruce Degan. Featuring an eccentric school teacher Miss Frizzle, who took her class through time and space on learning journey field trips, it was popular with 90s youngsters. In this version, presented by The Lavender Collective as part of State of Play for Fringe World, Miss Frizzle takes her university students on a journey to learn about Forensics.
Playing in one of Fringe World’s bigger venues, a set of mismatched bus seats nicely implies a titular bus. Kate O’Sullivan takes control beautifully as Miss Frizzle, with an unsettling edge.
Good teamwork from this cast, successfully playing a diverse group of university students. Callum Fairweather is strong as the mysterious Xavier, Dominic Depiazzi is convincing as outspoken pre-med student Jamie, while Jasmine Ward brings dark demeanour to Ash. Sarah-Beth Aldridge nicely flies under the radar as Charlie, Clare Boon has fun as Princess-like Instagrammer Lexi and Genevieve Wilson brings high energy to sporty Sam.
Definitely not for kids, this one is a little bit grim at times, but there is lots of humour. While not always as pacy as it could be, it is clever and there are some sharp character arcs.
Travelling to the Busselton Fringe, this is a great choice, particularly if you were a fan of the books or TV show.
Kimberley Shaw
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