Tick, Tick…Boom

Tick, Tick…Boom is a last-minute addition to Wanneroo Repertory’s season. When it was announced that the scheduled play was unable to go on, about 7 weeks before Opening Night, director Devlin Turbin offered to do the musical Tick, Tick…Boom. From announcement, through auditions, rehearsal and construction in a very short time, one might forgive a slightly undercooked production, but this was a production that was polished and raring on Opening Night (except for programmes - but we can forgive one dropped ball).

This semi-autobiographical musical about a young composer worried about reaching 30, without having made a successful show, was penned (and originally performed) by Jonathan Larson as a solo show, a handful of years before his breakout success Rent, and for audiences it carries the sadness of the knowledge that while Larson achieved his dream of a Broadway success, he did not live to enjoy it.

Converted after Larson’s death into a three-actor piece by playwright David Auburn, this production, without altering dialogue, adds an ensemble (unlike the original off-Broadway cast - they do not have wages budget with which to contend). The ensemble play minor characters originally played by the central cast, which both fills out the stage, and would have removed some of the pressure of a short rehearsal period. Great work from Georgia Goff singing gorgeously as actress Karessa, Aleisha Archer relishing the role of Agent Rosa, Jake Battle finding contrasts in Larson’s father and Caleb Stevens playing idol Stephen Sondheim.

The lead trio are also strong. Jordan Richards anchored the show well, barely offstage as Jon, in an impressive performance. Ellie Coburn sang nicely and was very sweet as girlfriend Susan. Blair Price-Morgan sang beautifully, giving a deliberately understated performance as Michael.

The set consisted of a realistic brick wall and several levels of staging that brought to mind warehouse conversions in New York City, with the skilful 4-piece band led by Musical Director Jasper Cruden, clearly visible throughout - lending a rock concert feel. Costumes were nicely selected for both character and era, and lighting choices from designer Matthew Roberts colourful and emotive.

Choreographer Caleb Stevens (performing double duty on-stage) kept the actors moving throughout, with some clever ideas throughout. He was assisted by Naomi Capon who provided extra choreography.

More than just a space filler, Tick, Tick…Boom is a fully realised production that entertains. While Opening Night audience was a little small, I hope that word-of-mouth will bring the crowds that this show deserves.

Kimberley Shaw