Disney's Moana Jr.

Disney’s Moana Jr. is a sixty-minute musical adaptation of the 2016 Disney animated film, bringing the adventures of Moana and her village of Motunui to life on stage. It is a heart-warming coming of age story with messages of bravery and selflessness and, with several songs written in a Polynesian language, it gives the children experience of singing in another language, which they did with confidence.

Director for FMS Youth Theatre's production, Sarah Mulcare, has sensibly kept the stage area fairly clear, decorating it with just some blocks and a couple of palm trees. Numerous well-made props (Jane Clements, Graeme Clements and James Beale), easily manoeuvred by the cast, were used – most notably the clever boat, the monsters’ faces and the treasure chest. The sea was ingeniously represented by six girls floating and gliding around with chiffon scarves and wave cloths. Costumes throughout were simple but effective. Lighting and sound worked well (Estelle Munn and Graeme Clements) and the use of head mics and a good balance maintained with the backing tracks meant we could hear most of the words.

What performances these talented youngsters gave! Solo and chorus singing was all spot-on with loads of enthusiasm and I particularly admired the way you handled the Polynesian songs. You all danced well too, filling the stage with colour and movement. Mabel Mulcare as Moana and Rosie Beale as Maui really shone in their roles, exuding confidence and style, and I really enjoyed Lyra Russell’s interpretation of Tamatoa in a very striking costume. Best of all, everyone looked like they were having a great time.

You took on a challenging piece of theatre and really smashed it – huge WELL DONE to everyone involved!

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