Review – The Boy from Oz, Len Power, Canberra Critics Circle
12 October 2024This review by Len Power originally appeared on the Canberra Critics Circle on 4 October. Len Power’s reviews are also broadcast on Artsound FM 92.7 in the ‘Arts Cafe’ and ‘Arts About’ programs and published in his blog ‘Just Power Writing’ at https://justpowerwriting.blogspot.com/.
First opening in 1998 in Sydney, ‘The Boy From Oz’ achieved great popularity and a long run on stage with Todd McKenney as Peter Allen. Taken to Broadway with Hugh Jackman in the lead, it repeated its popularity throughout its limited run. It remains a popular musical in revivals around Australia.
Peter Allen was a larger-than-life figure for much of his later career, finding success as performer, singer and song-writer. The book of the show provides glimpses into his life from childhood in a New South Wales country town to the glittering lights of Broadway, using many of his popular and enduring songs along the way.
The performer who plays the marathon role of Peter Allen must have charisma, energy and strong vocal ability. Free Rain Theatre made a fine choice in casting Jared Newall in the role. His high energy performance, acting ability and fine singing capture the essence of Allen the man and performer. His singing of ‘Tenterfield Saddler’ and ‘Once Before I Go’ are particular highlights, topped only by his performance of the rousing ‘I Go To Rio’ with the company at the end of the show.
Janie Lawson gives a fine performance of great warmth as Allen’s mother, Marion Woolnough. In her capable hands, the level of emotion she brought to the song ‘Don’t Cry Out Loud’ was another highlight of the show.
The roles of Judy Garland and Liza Minnelli are difficult to play, given the well-known and unique characteristics of these performers. Meaghan Stewart as Garland and Stephanie Bailey as Minnelli give a sense of these of these personalities without making the mistake of trying to copy them. Both strong singers, they performed their songs very well.
There are many other effective performances from the large cast and many of the ensemble had cameo roles as well.
The large amount of choreography by James Tolhurst-Close and Kristy Griffin matched the dancing styles of the time periods of the story. It was danced with high energy by the ensemble, who also sang very well. Their singing of ‘I Still Call Australia Home’ with Jared Newall almost stopped the show.
The orchestra, conducted by Ian McLean, gave a rousing performance of the many songs in the show.
The show moves with speed and energy and has been efficiently directed by Kirsty Griffin. The messy-looking words painted on the floor were a distraction and the set was minimal and uninteresting. The soundscape before the show was too loud and was such a jumble of words and sounds that it was annoying rather than atmospheric.
Overall, this is a good production with fine performances, singing and dancing. The cast display the life and times of Peter Allen with great appeal, making this an enjoyable show.
Photos by Janelle McMenamin