Disney High School Musical On Stage

It is refreshing to attend a packed house matinee, full of excited young people, many presumably having their first live-theatre experience, and to see an energised, enthusiastic young cast on stage.

High School Musical is based on the Disney Chanel Movie of the same name. The characters are familiar to many in the audience and the kids in the crowd also clearly knew the songs. 

WAAPA Contemporary Singing Graduate Matthew Watford plays central character Troy, and is convincing as a basketball player, aspiring singer and young romantic. Mariah Gonzales is a sweet and solid Gabriella, bearing a more-than-passing resemblance to original Gabriella, Vanessa Hudgens.

Villains of sorts, but very likeable, are siblings Ryan (Charlie Darlington) and Sharpay (Holly Denton), showing lovely teamwork and some impressive song and dance routines.

Ebony Uetake gave an intelligent performance as Gabriella’s brainy best-friend Taylor, working well with Terence Smith, playing Troy’s buddy Chad.

Montana Tickner brings a fresh interpretation to composer/pianist Kelsi, Felix Malcolm is loveable as ‘secret baker with a crush’ Zeke, Liam Tickner landed some laughs as school announcer Jack and Connie Wetherilt stands out as unlikely (but very talented) hip-hopper Martha.

A hard-working ensemble add colour and fun, although the boys could have benefitted from greater numbers. Adult characters Ms Darbus (Tara Oorjitham) and Coach Bolton(Gary Wetherilt) have a lovely rapport with their younger cast-mates.

The show looks great. the set is simple, effective and clean and the costumes (Brooklyn Rowcroft) have flair.

At times it was difficult to hear dialogue - especially over the combination of underscoring and matinee buzz. Singing was clearly well taught, and at times impressive, but sometimes harmonies were amiss, particularly in group numbers. The audience did not seem to mind and this was ultimately a real feel-good show.

It is great to see so many theatres embarking on shows with younger casts and for younger audiences; A lovely insurance policy for the continuing security of community theatre. I am sure that High School Musical is generating future audiences as well as performers.

Kimberley Shaw

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