Xanadu

HAMA Productions’ Xanadu is a bright, broad stroke production that doesn’t take itself very seriously, but the performances, singing, music and production values are seriously good, in this fabulous and funny show.

Sounding superb, familiar tunes have the audience tapping their toes, with excellent singing backed by Music Director Taui Pinker’s strong four-piece band. A single, elegant set, designed by Rhiannon Walker, houses the band on an upper level, and pays homage to the Grecian themes of the show. Costumes are a bright blend of pseudo–Ancient Greek and the most extreme of eighties fashion, and Max Mackenzie’s lighting design is fun and vibrant.

Elaina O’Connor as Ancient Greek Muse Clio, posing as Roller-skating Aussie girl Kira, sports the broadest Australian accent you’ll hear this side of the Black Stump (it is delightful) in a performance that despite being deliberately over-played, still manages to be touching and sweet. She is beautifully paired with Vincent Hooper, always welcome back in his original home of Perth, whose lovely asides to the audience are particularly fun - solid as artist Sonny Malone.

Villainous sisters Melpomene and Calliope quickly become audience favourites as played to perfection by Rachel Monamy and Elethea Sartorelli, chewing the scenery, and admitting to such in a joking aside that passed over 99% of the matinee crowd. Brandyn Kaczmarczyk and Tate Bennet gender flip (sort of) and delight the audience in similarly larger than life performances as sisters Terpsichore and Thalia, nicely balanced by Claudia Haines-Cappeau and Georgia Rogers playing (almost) straight as Erato and Euterpe.

Recently returned to Perth, Jamie Jewell is impressive in the dual (and very different) roles of Danny and Zeus, with Josh Hartley excellent as tap-dancing Young Danny.

A small but talented and hard-working ensemble provide support throughout. Singing and dancing (under choreographer Meagan Boniface) is well executed throughout. 

Great use of roller skating that might just inspire audience members to dust off their old skates.

Xanadu may not change your life, but it is pure escapism that is guaranteed to lift your spirits and keep you smiling for a few hours. A must-see for lovers of the film, and those who enjoy a fun, frivolous - yet well-performed musical.

Kimberley Shaw