The Wedding Singer

The Wedding Singer is a musical based on the film of the same name. It did not get a long run on Broadway. After seeing this excellent production, I was surprised.

The highlight was the amazing chemistry between Leighton Irwin and Katlin O’Keene as Robbie, the wedding singer, and Julia, the girl he wanted. There was a touching vulnerability about their performances which was engaging, and they both sang well.

Dion Kaliviotis played a quirky Sammy, fellow band member and best mate of Robbie, and was very funny. So too Danny Nercessian as the mincing George, the third band member. Grace Maddern and Rosie Alexander as Holly, Julia’s best friend, and Linda, Robbie’s fiancée, used their impressive dancing skills well and sang up a storm. Cathy Phillips was very funny as Robbie’s grandmother.

Other cast members showed flexibility by playing multiple roles, and there were some quick costume changes. The show was colourful and high energy, with some tight choreography.

The band was at the back of the stage and became the band for the various weddings that occurred. Very practical for a venue without an orchestra pit. The simple set featured a double bed on one side and other items brought on for various set changes. A bathroom was created with a couple of trolleys.

The only issues I had were technical. The lighting was effective, but sometimes late. The sound had major technical difficulties. Initially I thought there was a good balance, but at the Bar Mitzvah the sound wasn’t working at all, and was intermittent from then on, so many words were lost.

I’m sure these issues will be addressed and they will have a most successful season.

It was a shame, when the rest of the show was on such a high standard.

Graham Ford