The Boy From Oz

The Boy From Oz is a powerhouse show for the title character, and in Rohan Browne they found the right man. He has a good singing voice and his dancing was amazing. However, it was his natural manner, chatting to the audience, which carried the show.

Caroline O’Connor was excellent as his mother-in-law, Judy Garland. She died early on, but that didn’t stop her returning at various intervals to give Peter some good advice. Vocally she really channelled the ageing Judy magnificently. Robyn Arthur was a constant delight as Peter’s mother.

Loren Hunter did well as Liza Minnelli but didn’t have the powerhouse voice that Liza had. Maxwell Simon was Greg, Peter’s partner later in life, and his rendition of “I Honestly Love You” was heartfelt. The dancing of the ensemble was spectacular, particularly when the Rockettes dance with Rohan. The costumes were dazzling.

There was a large set of stairs in the middle of the stage which was used effectively. Strings of lights hung from the flies and changed colour to stunning effect.

Initially the sound was a problem, being too loud for the singers and some of the dialogue to be heard. This improved in the second half and hopefully won’t be a problem in future.

By the finish there were as many fans of Rohan Browne as of Peter Allen in the audience.

Graham Ford

Photographer: Jeff Busby