Here is a marvelous' review we received by RizzieReviews
The Marvellous Wonderettes
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What an appropriate show to finish WMTC's last show at The Grove! Full of nostalgia and joy! So fitting as WMTC prepare for a new and no doubt successful chapter providing great musical theatre on the Central Coast. The Marvellous Wonderettes, a musical, full of familiar hits from the 50' and 60's, follows the journey of four high school friends into adulthood, exploring L.O.V.E. (spells love). Whilst the plot is lacking in depth, it acts as a segway into various girl group songs which were presented with a Supremes kind of feel. The set is purposely simple to place us in the Springfield High School auditorium, during prom 1958 and then again in 1968 for the very revealing reunion.
Due to the nature of the limited script, the action on stage is quite static, however the choreography was incredible and a credit to Mia Brody, enhancing every song and transporting the audience back in time with some iconic moves. With such a small ensemble and so many songs with four-part harmonies, the Musical Director, Hannah Whitwell and the cast are to be congratulated on what must have been a rigorous rehearsal process to bring these well known musical numbers to life. Whilst all of the musical items entertained the audience, some really struck a chord with perfect harmonies and had everyone bopping in their seats.
The lighting, although perhaps intentionally problematic in parts (It is after all a high school production ?) may have had some opening night glitches but will no doubt be ironed out throughout the run.
The costuming was delightful and captured both the time and the place with thought and flair, even subtly colour coding each performer to enhance and deepen the characters.
Seriously, with a four hander, you have to have significant talent otherwise it all falls over and these gals brought it! (Sorry Judy you don't get any credit!)
Felicity Margery as Missy Miller was the leader of the pack with amazing vocals making sure everyone was marvellous. She graces the stage with confidence and gravitas the anchor for the group - we voted for her!! (Sorry other Wonderettes!) although she does have a penchant for the older man.
Olivia Rowe as Cindy Lou Huffington was enigmatic and so sexy she produced some beautiful numbers including Preacher Man one of the highlights of the show.she made the greatest transformation from high school to adulthood. such a charismatic and comic character. Try keeping your eyes off her!
Stephanie Hanlon as Suzy Simpson stole the show in so many scenes! Sort of not meaning to. such is her acting prowess. Her subtle comedic ability was so engaging. Her physical and facial expressions cemented many scenes. But most of all, her gorgeous lilting voice provided so many wonderful renditions of many famous songs that will leave you wanting more.
Liz Thomas as Betty Jean (sorry BJ) was the comic fall girl her masculine persona set her apart from all the others and we loved her all the more for it. her journey was pretty much set from the get go. her feisty relationship with her BFF Cythnia and her one love Johnny is the foundation for much of the conflict in the story. Some of her comic lines were well delivered and very memorable.
Finally Karen Rowe Director has managed to bring all these elements together to create an engaging and delightful evening at the theatre.
The Marvellous Wonderettes is on at The Grove until 30 November 2024 Go Chipmunks!!.
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