Children's Letters To God.

The adage to never work with children should probably be written on stone for first time directors, but Callan Kneale made his directorial debut with a cast of 26 under eighteens, a youthful crew, teenagers operating sound and lights and a band too young to vote, and did so very successfully.

A core cast of five; most of whom despite their youth are almost stage veterans, led a strong ensemble. Samuel Tye won sympathy as awkward Brett, Emily Gelineau sang beautifully as Iris and Jayden Payne captured romantic dreamer Joanna believably. Charlie Darlington played central role Theo with confidence and honesty. Completing the quintet was its youngest member, Noah Fullarton, making his theatrical debut in a delightful performance as Kicker.

Musical Director Andrew Dobosz's small young band were beautifully kitted in American Marching Band uniforms and sat in a bandstand upstage centre. From there they were able to achieve generally good balance against young unmiked voices.

George Boyd's set design which included many surprises, was bright and functional and set pieces such as a house frontage, windows and play equipment were well utilised. The backdrop included an exquisite park setting by scenic artist Tim Prosser.

Callan Kneale coped very well with his young and often inexperienced team. While there were some inconsistencies with accents (most but not all dialogue was delivered with Australian accents while songs were distinctly American) and some conversation was garbled in its enthusiasm or slightly too sotto, this is a show produced with so much raw enthusiasm it is a delight to watch. A joyous glimpse at the bright future of Perth theatre.

Kimberley Shaw.

Images:Jayden Payne and Sam Tye (top) and Emily Gelineu.