High School Musical Junior

                             

This was my second visit to the Performing Arts Centre to review a production performed by Abigail’s Performing Arts and once again, both shows performed on Sunday 8th June were sell outs with very loud, enthusiastic audiences. As per my first visit, I was made very welcome and it was clear that this a real community performing arts group, where everyone is included and valued.  The cast numbered up to thirty, aged 11 – 18 and there was a real buzz in the audience and backstage as the show was about to begin.

The floor space was used incredibly well and the cast entered via the wings. The set was minimal, and a very large Interactive White Board was used effectively to project the different sets. Props were brought onto the stage as necessary by backstage crew and cast members and scene changes took place fluently and seamlessly. The lighting and sound effects were good and worked well and added to the setting of an American high school. The music was provided by backing tracks which had been chosen carefully to achieve a good effect.In general,most of the principal characters could be heard at the back of the hall and the microphones worked reasonably well. The costumes and make up were particularly good and every actor looked their part.

Troy played by Stan Howell-Smith and Gabriella played by Maddie Griffiths worked well together when on stage at the same time. They had reasonable chemistry and worked hard to make their characters believable. Sharpay played by Holli Dixey and Ryan played by Daisy Dixey had excellent chemistry and played their parts exceedingly well. Chad played by Cameron Kiff and Taylor played by Violet Stuart-Allen were effective and kept the production moving with good energy when they were on stage. Ms Darbus played by Neve Kidd played the drama teacher very well with a completely over the top yet effective attitude, which added some good comic elements to the show. Coach Bolton, played by Tristan Williams, appearing in his last show with the group before he attends university played Troy’s dad efficiently and effectively.

The rest of the cast supported the main actors generally well and there were elements of good singing and dancing throughout the whole show. The cast had mastered and sustained effective American accents throughout the show.

Good, proactive direction and straightforward yet effective choreography lifted this show to a very enjoyable level.

This was a good show, and the team deserves credit for utilising the skills and talents of thirty youngsters plus everyone who helped and supported this production in any capacity.Well done to all!

 

 

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