Musical of Musicals the Musical

Musical of Musicals the Musical might be better described as five musicals in one. Taking the basic story of a young woman who is unable to pay her rent, we see the story as if written by Rodgers and Hammerstein, Stephen Sondheim, Jerry Herman, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Kander and Ebb.

The cast of four - Ruth Bennett, Rachel Monamy, David Wallace and Jesse Watts, beautifully accompanied by director (and occasional narrator) Kate McIntosh, are all superb and work outstandingly well as a team.

Ruth Bennett shines in her first lead role, playing a gamete of personalities from Kansas farm girl, through Evita-inspired aspiring star, to sleazy speakeasy performer. Rachel Monamy is excellent throughout, and is especially impressive as the Mame styled Auntie Abby.

Jesse Watts plays a variety of leading men, and is wonderful as all, from deep-thinking composer to gay jail-bird. David Wallace's characters are all the villain of the piece, but are amazingly varied, and he embodies each character and musical style with conviction.

The solid looking set, designed by the directorial team, manages to transcend the five musicals - Corn, A Little Complex, Dear Abby, Aspects of Junita and Speakeasy, with ease. Jon Lambert's lighting design is noticeably conscious of each production style and well operated by Lee and Joshua Germain.

One of the funniest musicals you could hope to see, Koorliny's Musical of Musicals the Musical is a must-see for die-hard musicals fans but is also a highly entertaining romp for everyone else. A beautifully produced, gorgeously performed show.

Kimberley Shaw

Images: Deprimo Photography.