An enthusiastic audience, bubbling with somewhat wicked anticipation, greeted the Cast of the Devonport Choral Society’s long awaited production of ‘The Full Monty’ on Opening Night.They were not disappointed.
A large, talented cast, directed by the very experienced Sid Sidebottom, and supported by a wonderful orchestra and dedicated crew, entertained the large audience with this quirky, humorous, poignant and unpredictable story, of a mixed group of working men needing to make a living, in any way possible, in hard times. Their solution was unusual, challenging (for their families, and friendships), and both moving and hilarious. And, best of all, a huge success, on many levels.
Very strong acting and singing talent was on display throughout the Production, which included very experienced performers, plus some impressive younger cast members who will surely have a great future in live theatre.
The Season continues until June 1st at the Town Hall Theatre. Book your tickets now so that you can support local talent, and enjoy a very entertaining, if somewhat naughty, night out!Congratulations to all. Go Team!
Campbell Mayberry, Logan James, Mason Waller, Billy Hawkins, Derrick McPhie and David Lee in The Full Monty finale
Devonport Choral Society is seeking Expressions of Interest from Directors who would like to work with us in our 2025 season.
If you have a project in mind (it must be a musical), please send us some information about your proposed show – show requirements, production personnel, your vision.
Applications for this round of Expressions of Interest will close on Friday 14 June 2024.
Devonport Choral Society deliver with new musical Freaky Friday.
It would be easy, maybe even prudent, to produce a family favourite crowd pleaser in the current times. Bums on seats, audiences humming along and all that. DCS and Director, Maree Brodzinski, are to be congratulated on taking a risk with the unfamiliar Freaky Friday. The buzzing atmosphere and spontaneous applause amongst the crowd on Thursday night suggests the Company will be rewarded with the audience they deserve when word of mouth gets around.
The show is based on the various cinematic iterations of the same name. The basic premise of the mother/daughter magical body swap facilitates the ensuing tale of generation gaps, walking in someone else’s shoes, losing loved ones, finding others and the value of family. I laughed (a lot) and came close to tears (a little) which is how I like my theatrical experiences.
I have some reservations about a couple of the musical numbers having a saminess about them and some potentially questionable lyrics. However, most of the songs are cleverly constructed to further plot or character development and are highly entertaining. Likewise the cast were not immune to the occasional vocal or physical stumble and a couple of the character accents were…interesting. These are minor quibbles but it would be disingenuous of me to omit them.
What was delightful to see was the commitment, focus and generosity of an ensemble ranging from the very young (Zeb Peters, making an impressive debut) to the more seasoned performers (names withheld at the request of the actors!) They are superbly led by Alana Lane and Natalie Gaffney playing mother and daughter (Katherine and Ellie Blake). Triple threats doubled! They own the stage, both equally adept in the comic and dramatic moments, beautiful voices and impressive physical actors. They immediately established character and then swiftly presented a believable and sustained transformation…bravo. Billy Hawkins (Mike), Elizabeth Sly (Torrey), Campbell Mayberry (Adam) and Elizabeth Jolly (Savannah) are all terrific in supporting roles.
Brodzinski’s direction is clear and guides the audience’s focus throughout. The choreography by Dana Sallese, ably supported by daughter, Gabriella, is an entertaining blend of funky and funny. Set design (Jennifer Slater and Belinda Gunston) is deceptively simple but highly effective, allowing for smooth scene changes and conveying time and place. An obviously experienced and talented band delivers a near flawless performance under the direction of Petrina Jahnz.
As part of our season of FREAKY FRIDAY, we would like to offer to our community a “relaxed performance” on Saturday 20 May at 1.30pm.
A “relaxed performance” is a type of live performance that is specifically designed to create a more relaxed and inclusive atmosphere for people who may find traditional performances challenging or overwhelming. This can include individuals with disabilities, neurodivergent individuals, those with sensory sensitivities, young children, or anyone who may benefit from a more flexible and accommodating environment.
What can you expect at the Freaky Friday relaxed performance?:
* House lights will be left on and dimmed during performance * A pre-show talk about what to expect during the performance * Sound levels will be lowered, and any sudden loud noises, flashing lights or other potentially distressing effects will be minimized or eliminated altogether * Audiences are free to move around, make noise, and leave and re-enter the performance as needed * Auslan Interpreters (Deaf Connect Interpreting Service) * Hearing loop installed with headsets * Space for service animals * Visual and communication resources such as communication boards and visual stories * Resources to increase comfort such as booster seats for the theatre * A chill out area * Additional Front of House staff to assist you
Thanks to everyone who came along to our info session today. It was great to see so many new faces, as well as lots of old friends. Find the information pack here. Further audition resources will be available upon booking your audition. To book and audition, call Kimbra on 0458 847 484 between 4-9pm.
