flowerchildren - The Mamas and Papas Story
Although they only performed together for three years from 1965, the impact American folk rock vocal group The Mamas and Papas on the music scene at the time was enormous. With America still at war in Vietnam, the young people of the time were looking for a way out and they found it with drugs, music and the message of peace and free love. This show captures all of that and so much more.
For those familiar with the music, you will be thrilled at this homage to the band’s life work and for those of you who are not, you will fall in love with this talented, hilarious and ultimately tragic tale.
Opening with their massive hit ‘California Dreamin’, it soon becomes apparent that you are about to witness something special. Each member looks the part, but most importantly they capture the harmonies beautifully.
Director David Gauci has done a fine job in bringing together a talented group to breathe life into the sounds of the sixties and musical director Emma Knights’ attention to detail means the soundtrack to the evening will keep you tapping your feet long after the curtain goes down.
It would be fair to say that Michelle Phillips (Fiona Delaine) did a lot of growing up during their whirlwind success and Delaine captures this transitioning well whist still obtaining the right amount of innocence. Vocally her performance is divine, which we have come to expect from this seasoned performer. John Phillips (Lindsay Prodea) was the creative force behind the group. Prodea’s passion is believable as he struggles with addiction, his performance is solid. His undying love for Michelle was his inspiration for many of the band’s hits, but the band nearly collapsed when Michelle had an affair with band member Denny Doherty (David Salter). Salter has undeniable stage presence and hits just the right note in his portrayal of Doherty. Lisa Simonetti (Mama Cass) is nothing short of brilliant. Masking her pain throughout the show with hilarious one-liners, her performance is not to be missed. Her rendition of ‘Dream a Little Dream’ is a show-stopper.
Each member of the group gives a compelling performance, capturing the pain behind the scenes with restraint. This story is told quite simply with narration given by the main cast to fill in the gaps in the plot. Hulaballo dancers are added to most musical numbers and provide just the right amount of cheesiness. Special mention must go out to Fiona Aitken for her hilarious imitation of replacement band member Jill Gibson.
This is a well thought out and directed show, but above all highly entertaining.
Kerry Cooper
Adelaide Fringe 2015 Previews.
flowerchildren – the mamas and papas story
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