XANADU, the Carillon Theatrical Society’s presentation for 2017, is just outstanding.
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You will be singing most, if not all, the songs endlessly over many weeks to come.
It is both a complicated and a very simple story and in the vein of “Mamma Mia!” this one is happy, sad and very very funny. It will have you tapping your toes, singing along with gusto and probably getting up and dancing in the aisles.
Without knowing how, you will recognise song after song after song as they are performed by some remarkable talents.
The storyline is supported by an exceptionally funny script and we get to enjoy this as a result of the performers’ superb comic timing. Everyone has something truly funny to say and sometimes it is not possible to have recovered laughing before the next hysterical statement begins.
You will enjoy this show.
The main characters are Clio/Kira played beautifully by Eliza Tucker - another stand out performance – and Sonny played by gorgeous Dave Webb along with Wane Howard who yet again, turns in another superlative performance with his fabulous, fabulous tapping. It is a showstopper!
Circling around creating mischief in any way possible are two of Kira’s sister muses, Melpomene and Calliope, played by Gabbi Bolt and Sammy Taylor and they practically steal the show. This is really funny stuff here and the girls relish their roles.
Again, as Bathurst has come to expect from any CTS production, the chorus and dancers deliver a sterling performance which can only strengthen the production. And just when you think that this must be all that there is – out come the dancers, the cleaners, the construction workers, the rockers, the sirens, the Andrew Sisters and the skaters.
To perform with the support of such talented people must be so very satisfying.
We have previously seen the fruits of great direction from Leonie Freeth and again she does not disappoint. The choreography from the fertile brain of Janelle Kemp is inspiring while the musicians, led by Phil Snitch, deliver the music with great enthusiasm and the fabulous costumes from Jacquie Smith bring a visual feast to the stage.
The staging and scenery including the magnificent Pegasus is great. It is inspired and clever and those backstage people never let the CTS down.
Of course, much is made of various lighting techniques which enhance the action and I remain open mouthed about the technology behind the wall mural and how it comes to life!
It is a very clever, funny and enjoyable production. You really will enjoy this show.