We Will Rock You

The “big production” in WA’s accidental little Ben Elton festival (it ran concurrently with Arena’s production of Ben Elton’s Silly Cow), We Will Rock You had its audience rapt, as they laughed heartily, clapped, stamped their feet and sang along.

This futuristic Queen musical that doesn’t take itself very seriously, was performed with both excellence and a nod and a wink, as this huge cast wowed its audience.

Using a very industrial scaffold set, and a large rear projection, Bronwyn White and Karen Francis’ used the full width and depth of Manpac’s large stage - just as well too, as with a cast of 53, and huge dance numbers the space was necessary. Lighting design by Tony Gordon and Karen Francis gives the show a rock concert feel. The solid pace of this production was diminished a little by some scene transitions that should have been more smooth.

Musical Director Vanitha Hart (also on keys) led a seven-piece orchestra that played well and mastered their “line”, and singing (under the tutelage of vocal director Kirstie Corbishley) was impressive throughout. Choreography by Rhiannon Francis and Sydney Hopkins was varied and well-executed.

Costumes (Karen Francis, Kim Parker, Pat Francis and cast) were vibrant and fun.

There were some very likeable performances. Braeden Geuer was impressive as “the dreamer” Galileo Figaro, working well with Asha Perry who gave Scaramouche intelligence and sass. Rebels Oz and Brit were very well played by Tara Lynette Elliot (fabulous vocals) and Jioji Nawanawa (great presence). Scott Hansen was an audience favourite as leader Buddy.

Everyone loves a good villain and Kristie Corbishley was a brash and campy Killer Queen, well supported by Alex White as Khashoggi. Offsiders - the Gaga Teacher, played by George Turner, the Gaga Girls and Nurses, were played with great spirit, although the nurses, despite some great business, were pulling focus at times.

This show has some great moments for the Rebels, who take their names from rock heroes, and while it isn’t possible to mention them all, I particularly enjoyed Matthias Zver’s Tina Turner, Rhiannon Francis’ AC/DC, Sheryl Gale’s Boy George and Hunter Perry’s Madonna. The ensemble was focused and “on” at all times.

This show was a joy to watch, and it was great to see audience members of all ages having a ball.

Kimberley Shaw

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