Disney's High School Musical

This is most definitely not the easiest musical for a young company in only their second year to perform. However, this lively energetic group made it all look easy.

The effective set used a raised platform area across the back with steps down either side onto the stage. This gave height to the production and included two large painted  Wildcats Basketball emblems. The stage area was used well with good lighting and sound balance. The dancing and general movement was of a very high standard, as was the singing with some superb solo and complicated vocal harmonies. The orchestra, led by Rod,  was very complementary to the singers and provided a lovely sound.

Ben Minieards (Troy Bolton) and Eleanor Whitestone-Paul (Gabriella Montez) were very well matched, leading us with comfort through the whole energetic show. Their voices blended so well together it was a pleasure to listen. Violet Clarke (Taylor McKessie) has great stage presence and a voice to match, she was in character always. Troy Anderson & Joe Jeffery (Chad & Zeke) were strong vocally, bringing out some of the comedy in the piece through their acting. Kelsi Neilson, played by Hatti Taylor, was true to the character of the original film and I’m sure was playing the piano covered by the keyboard from the pit. It was very authentic and Hatti has a lovely singing voice. Abi Faulder & Isabel Robinson (Jackie Scott & Martha Cox) were very confident with Abi helping to keep the pace of the production throughout. Sharpay & Ryan Evans (Emily Moss & Henry Patterson) are by far the biggest characters on the stage and these two young actors didn’t disappoint. They had the look, the comedy, the vocals and together they battled their dialogue like true siblings. Coach Bolton was played by Matt Dixon. It’s never easy in a youth production to play an adult and made harder by being the parent of another member of the cast. Matt coped so well with this and his scenes with Ben were excellent, a credit to them both. Our other adult character was Ms Darbus, everyone’s favourite drama teacher. Anya Neal played her with humour in a larger than life style which was great.

All the smaller roles were done very well and the ensemble of Jocks, Thespians, Brainiacs, Skater Dudes and Cheers all played their part in keeping the energy going throughout. I particularly noted Lily-Grace roaring into the drama class auditions. This was one of my favourite scenes, not only well directed but confidently played by all involved, including the earthworm. Also the two young boy Jocks were fabulous. I noted from the programme that the dance captains were two of the Cheers (Sian & Alison); choreographers of the future perhaps?

The Megamix finale was a celebration of the whole evening with fabulous choreography showing off each group of performers. Congratulations to the production team of Katy, Rod, Fiona and Nathalie and to everyone involved in this excellent production. I can’t wait to see what you do next.

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