Dusty – The Original Pop Diva

Babirra Music Theatre continues to produce top flight shows. It was not just the leading lady, but every role that was cast from strength.

Of course, most of the heavy lifting was done by Emily McKenzie as Dusty, and she met every challenge. She has a terrific voice, and we felt for this woman as she initially took up the fight to become a singer and then struggled with alcoholism and relationship issues. Many of her best vocal moments were when she was at her lowest ebb.

Thirteen-year-old Phoebe Bourke was the young Dusty, who reappeared throughout the show to communicate with her older self with an amazing voice for one so young. She showed great maturity in her performance and it was fascinating to watch their relationship ebb and flow.

Sarahlouise Younger was Dusty’s on-again off-again partner, Reno, with powerful vocals and passionate chemistry with Dusty. Ashley Taylor and Zachary Alaimo were Dusty’s support staff, Peg and Rodney, who also got their chance to shine and provided many of the comic moments.

Highlights for me were the a capella singing of the ensemble in “I Think It’s Going to Rain Today” at the AA meeting, and Jennie Kellaway’s heartfelt “My Colouring Book” as Dusty’s mum, after leaving a birthday message on her daughter’s answering machine in America.

The lighting was excellent and the minimalist set allowed for the action to flow. The band was very good, but sometimes the sound was a bit loud and voices could distort.

Another excellent night at the theatre from one of our top amateur companies.

Graham Ford