The Kill Deer

In a month that has seen several new Australian musicals performed in Perth, The Kill Deer is the real home-grown contribution, the World Premiere of a locally written show that is attracting great audiences for Murdoch Theatre Company.

Teenaged Elliot has been missing for five years. When he unexpectedly re-appears after ringing for help from a phone box, there is cause for celebration. But things begin to not add up. Is Elliot really Elliot?

Harley Dasey is impressive in the central role, bringing outstanding vocals and a compelling performance. In future incarnations of the show it would be great to see the character developed further to give us more of his thought processes - especially in the hands of a strong actor such as Harley, whose solo songs were excellent. At the moment, the show feels more about Elliot’s sister River, who is played well by Tannah Pridmore.

Journalist Amy was well played by Tashlin Church, working well with a solid Jefferson Hoan playing Henry, a case worker from the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children. I am unsure as to whether it is the writing or the fact that sometimes the sound balance favoured the band, but it was difficult to tell how Amy fit into the story for a while - unfortunate as she is a pivotal role.

Cathy Woodhouse brought depth to Bernadette, Elliot’s mother, in an emotive well-sung performance, nicely paired with Rigel Paciente as her ex-husband Roger. The song “O My Water”, and its reprise are highlights.

A chorus of twelve are kept busy throughout.

A seven piece music ensemble, led by Musical Director Paul Olsen, are strong and clean, and vocals are well delivered by all. At times though, especially in the large group numbers, lyrics were hard to hear, which in a completely new show can leave us a little lost.

This is a show that deserves future development and a further life. An interesting story that raised almost as many questions as it answered - it deserves to be seen. Congratulations on presenting a brand new show that was exciting to see and showcased loads of developing talent, both in the cast and the production team.

Kimberley Shaw