We Will Rock You Young@Part

Western Theatrics’ We Will Rock You Young@Part, was a vibrant, high-energy production, that was well directed, smoothly executed and nicely polished but retaining enough edge to keep it feeling organic. It had its audience clapping and stamping along and crying out for more.

Older sibling production to Western Theatrics’ Dare to Dream, performed the week before, it shared a basic rear platform and stairs set - perhaps used to more effect in this show (designed by Kate Oxley and Peter ‘Pear’ Carr, and made use of quality projections. Jo Padgett’s futuristic and rock inspired costumes were a delight and rock concert style lighting designed by Kat Brieden and Rhys Healy was a great asset to the show.

Callum Fairweather was very likable as Galileo Figaro, our “Everyman” hero, laidback and relaxed in the role and singing well, a great anchor for the production. His ‘babe’ Scaramouche was played by Jocelyn Dale, in what I think is my favorite interpretation of this role ever - feisty and self-assured, she stole scenes and was a joy to watch.

Killer Queen is a great villain and was played with power by Zara Consen, aided well by Max Murray as offsider Khashoggi.

The Bohemians, our outcast heroes, were superbly played, with Marc Obi a delight as Brit exuding natural charm and Rhianna Patching strong and striking as partner Oz. Logan Bin Bakar showed his versatility once again, giving us an unexpectedly wise old rocker in Buddy. It isn’t possible to mention all the Bohemians - all named for rock icons, but I particularly enjoyed Will Gorn’s unlikely Madonna and Ash Brady’s roller-skating Paul.

A very busy, very drilled ensemble provided great support throughout - with lovely work from the teen queens Kiara Chidgzey, Braydee Audrain, Kiara Bentley and Chloe Schiller.

A powerful production that hit the right notes in more ways than one, and great fun to watch.

Kimberley Shaw