Anything Goes

The Perth Amateur Operatic Society’s production of Anything Goes was an exuberant celebration of classic musical theatre, brought to life by a dedicated and talented cast. The show dazzled with its vibrant staging, sparkling costumes, and an energy that made the audience feel as though they were swept up in a joyous, carefree tide of song and dance.

Madelyn Schoonover’s portrayal of Reno Sweeney was nothing short of captivating. With impeccable comic timing and a commanding stage presence, she delivered show-stopping numbers that left the audience cheering. Christie Young, stepping into the role of Moonface Martin, infused the character with both humour and charm, turning what could have been a fleeting role into a memorable performance.

Maeve Murray’s Hope Harcourt was both witty and endearing, her vocal prowess and nuanced acting perfectly capturing the character’s inner conflict and playful exterior. Adding further depth to the production, Jane Taylor’s portrayal of Evangeline Harcourt brought an additional layer of warmth and complexity, complementing the dynamic interplay between characters. Meanwhile, Alan Musgrave’s Evelyn Oakleigh was a standout for his ability to balance the comic elements with an undercurrent of sincere emotion, proving that even a traditionally secondary role could resonate deeply when given such care.

Bekki MacKenzie shone as Erma, delivering her lines with a crisp, engaging sassy energy that lit up the stage. Stuart Robertson’s portrayal of Billy Crocker provided the perfect foil with his suave delivery and charming demeanour, rounding out a cast that clearly understood both the humour and the heart of this timeless musical. Ian Birse, as Elisha Whitney, added an intriguing spark to the performance, contributing a well-measured blend of subtlety and expressiveness that enriched the overall narrative.

Alongside the strong casting in both lead and supporting roles, the ensemble members demonstrated a solid ability in scene setting and characterisation, despite their potential not being fully realised throughout the production.

Overall, this production of Anything Goes was a testament to the Perth Amateur Operatic Society’s commitment to quality performance. The talent of the cast shone through, ensuring an evening that was both entertaining and filled with vibrant, standout performances.

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