The Wedding Singer

There are a lot of things to be impressed about when you see Sunnybank Theatre Group’s production of The Wedding Singer. The first notable positive is the substantial size of the ensemble cast including an eight-person-strong live band. Everyone on stage (and one can also assume offstage in the band pit) has enthusiasm and a cheerfully infectious joy. The cast are well-rehearsed, never appearing to miss a line or a beat. The show also benefits from great choreography by Jacquie Cullen to support the plentiful songs throughout.

Those viewers familiar with the film on which this musical is based might be a little disappointed not to hear the familiar ‘80s tunes that peppered the Sandler/Barrymore vehicle. Fans of new music, however, will be thrilled to experience the funny and touching original works. There’s even a granny rap that, while it’s not Rapper’s Delight, is as cheeky and humorous as in the movie.

The direction of the musical by Pam Cooper is tight. Pam does especially well with getting good comic performances out of the actors. In particular, Lisa Alsop as Linda/Ensemble is fearlessly funny as well as having a great singing voice. Lesley Davis as Grandma Rosie is also a delight to behold. Every time Melanie Pennisi is on stage, she shines brightly enough to make one wish she had a larger role. Elton Jun Camagay is lovely in the role of George, while both leads Chris-Morphett-Wheately (Robbie Hart) and Katya Bryant (Julia) take a little while to warm into their roles.

There are some small things that could be improved as the show continues. It would be great to hear Sarah Roberts (Holly) sing from the diaphragm as often projection and pitch is negatively affected by only the nasal resonators being used. There are a few moments when cast members’ self-consciousness overshadows the characterisation. The leads can work a little more on generating the chemistry you see in a blooming romance. Sound levels are also occasionally problematic, with vocals or dialogue at times being overpowered by music and at other times the music being too quiet to really get the atmosphere right. Scene changes can also use some tightening up.

That said, this show is really pleasurable and packed full of laughs. The digital set design is a cool idea, lighting good and costumes radical. The cast have so much fun performing it really does enhance the audience’s enjoyment. They’ve all clearly worked very hard to get the lines, songs and dance moves down pat. They support and trust each other very well. It doesn’t matter if you’ve seen the film or not, you were alive in the 80’s or just a twinkle in your parents’ eyes, this show has wide appeal and is very uplifting viewing.

Kiesten McCauley 

Photography: Kaymar Kreations