Popstars - The 90s Musical

Watching Art in Motion Theatre Company’s vibrant and fun production of Popstars - The 90s Musical, it is easy to see why this show has been one of the most frequently performed shows in Australian high schools, with its fun relatable characters, lots of great roles for young women, and familiar 1990s songs. Strangely this trend has not spread to the west, with only a smattering of school shows this side of the black stump, and this being the community theatre premiere in WA.

This young cast (they’re aged 14-21) look like the high schoolers they are playing and have a lovely rapport. While vocals aren’t always on point, there are some excellent individual voices and Music Directors Niamh Nicholls and Ruby Voss have clearly worked hard with this cast and nurtured developing voices. Dancing captures the best of the 90s dance moves, and the cast are well-coordinated and execute the choreography from Tess Howieson, Cortni Cooper and Keri Baker with enthusiasm.

Its girl band versus boy band, as two groups of performers prepare for the local talent quest, where secret guest judge is rumoured to be TV Talent judge Simon Austin. 

Mean girl Shannon, played with lots of power by Hannah Jade Keppler, is determined to win at all costs, recruiting best friends Steffi (nicely played by Isobel Radclyffe-Smith) and the delightfully dim Tina (great comic timing from Sienna Patterson). They seek out a talented lead singer to boost their act, finding the downtrodden but gorgeously voiced Charlie, played with great vocal strength and conviction by Jordi Askew.

Shannon’s recently dumped boyfriend Mark, brilliantly characterised by Beau Van Der Beeke, is determined to beat Shannon at her own game. He is joined by mate Vinnie (excellent presence and swagger from Keaton Humphreys), Shannon’s long suffering twin Patrick (strongly sung and acted by Micheal Carroll) and the silent but hilarious Shane (an audience favourite in the hands of Harry McGuire).The boys are coached by the sweet and very talented Ella, beautifully played by Jocelyn Dale.

In smaller roles, Asha Kopa is lovely as Carrie, and the tiny but cohesive ensemble kept busy throughout, with James Letch playing several roles including the School Principal and the long-awaited Simon, Annaliese Cummings is delightful as the talent quest compere and Makaya Kemp owns the small but pivotal role of Amber Shue.

Audience members of all ages seemed to be having a great time. Lovely to see a fresh new production, performed with spark and enthusiasm.

Kimberley Shaw