Company

WAAPA’s Third Year Musical Theatre students present Company, in a crisp, clean and clever production that is delighting its capacity audiences.

A great looking show, it features a streamlined set by student designer Ashlea Lansford, evocative and effective lighting design by Rhys Pottinger, top notch sound design by Noah Ivulich and thoughtful costume design by Monique Doubleday - the wedding dress is especially gorgeous.

Craig Dalton leads a strong student orchestra and even manages to play through being physically assaulted by a cast member - a unique and admirable skill.

Conor Nelson, very solid in the central role of Robert, leads a strong cast, all of whom deliver distinct and interesting characters. Ciara Taylor and Ethan Jones are a delightful as Sarah and Harry, with some excellent stage fighting, expertly directed by Andy Fraser. Tahra Cannon - dripping honey with her Southern accent - and Alexander Landsberry work well together as divorcing couple Susan and Peter, as do Isabelle Davis and Benjamin Barker as straight laced Jenny and the more free David.

Annabelle Rosewarn (Amy) gives perhaps the best performance of “Not Getting Married” I have ever seen, perfectly pattered and expertly acted and she was well matched with Jed McKinney as Paul. Another showstopper was Victoria Graves' (as Joanne) performance of “Ladies Who Lunch”, which enthralled the audience. She worked well with Luke Wilson, lovely as Larry.

The trio of ‘girlfriends’ aced “You Could Drive a Person Crazy”, and Grace Collins (April), Sara Reed (Marta) and Rose Shannon-Duhigg delivered excellent performances throughout. Solid support from ensemble Caitlin New, Madeleine Jolly Fuentes, Harrison Targett, Axel Duffy, Jack Hatford and Jackson Peele.

Choreography, by student Caitlin New, also in the ensemble, was fun, striking and quirky - and very nicely executed.

A strong opening to their final year from the Music Theatre students, as well as the students in creative courses. A very strong production of a challenging and interesting musical.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Jon Green