Xanadu

In Xanadu does Mosman’s show

A zany fun-filled night decree.

This affectionate stage musical send-up turns cult classic Xanadu, regularly rated amongst the worst movie musicals ever made, into a laugh-filled romp.

Seen the movie? That may well broaden your smile. Lived through the disco era? That will certainly tickle a funny bone or two. But this production feels like an all-round crowd-pleaser.

Mosman’s production is a cute, cheeky, high-camp disco frolic.

Director Anthony Young, choreographer Sammi O’Key and the cast nail a stream of comic moments, springing variously from lines, characters and visuals, slyly nodding at both era and film.

Young and his crew surely immersed themselves in every 80s cliché, move, fad and fashion, before cheekily recycling many as gags in cleverly staging this cheerful parody.

The cast nails the requisite comic delivery splendidly too, playing so many kooky lines and moments with utter belief.

Jessica Burns, the classical muse Klio, comes to LA to inspire artist Sonny (Daniel O’Connell), disguised as roller-skating Aussie Kira. When she launches into a broad, joyously awful Aussie accent it’s irresistible. Her cheeky smile, comic timing and strong pop vocals are at the centre of the show’s success. Her performance has the warmth, heart and sincerity without which this show wouldn’t register.

The two men in her life also push the boundaries as far beyond the two dimensional as the piece allows. O’Connell gives artist Sonny an earnest, engaging portrayal - he’s a bit of a naïve hero stereotype, sure, but he carries it off smoothly and engagingly. As Danny, Christopher Hamilton textures the role of the artist-turned-developer nicely, giving him sufficiently tangible feelings.

Is that all sounding a bit deep and meaningful?

Never fear, Klio’s two wickedly funny muse sisters, outrageously played by Jill Munt and Suzie Blackwell, never delve below the surface in their share of the funfest, with performances that are a cross between clowning and panto.

The ensemble and supporting performers enter into the spirit with energy, enthusiasm and an aptly pointed sense of fun.

The title tune, and other well-loved pop hits like ‘Suddenly’ and ‘Magic’, delight, popping up at the corniest of cues. Musical Director Melinda Hole, her on stage band support the vocals effectively. Susan Boyle’s costumes are bright and attractive, and Alex Cotton keeps the setting sparse and simple, so vital on the small Zenith stage.

Xanadu is as fun-filled and silly a night of musical comedy as I can remember seeing on a Sydney community theatre stage.

Neil Litchfield

Earlier Coverage

Note: While the movie Xanadu was nominated for 6 Razzies (awards at the opposite end of the scale to the Oscars), the major award that year was actually taken out by Can’t Stop the Music. The Broadway musical, on the other hand, was nominated for the Best Musical Tony.