Loserville

Allegro took a bit of a risk this year when they decided to stage ‘Loserville’ a comparatively new and lesser known musical. Set in the 70’s the somewhat complex plot revolves around a computer geek trying to develop software so that computers can communicate with each other. His fellow geeks are determined to win a Sci-Fi competition and meet the Starship Enterprise crew. Add to that a young lady with ‘brains and beauty’ who disguises herself as a geek so that she can become the first female astronaut. This modern day storyline is to say the least ‘thin’. Although the music is quite repetitive and not particularly memorable it is certainly lively and does bounce along holding the piece together. Despite this Allegro made an excellent job of this production.

The company exuded verve and energy both vocally and in the innovative and intricate choreography which demanded a high level of precision from the cast..

The four geeks were a formidable quartet interacting well with some well timed one liners. Matt McDonagh portrayed the geeky Michael Dork extremely well with his fine singing voice and expressive dialogue. We could feel his pain in his efforts to try and find love with the lovely Holly (Rachael Aedy) who commanded the stage with her warm personality and strong singing voice. Lucas (Tim Pearson) also had the audience on his side gaining their sympathy in his unrequited love. Matthew Cleator as the gawky Marvin was most amusing with his exaggerated mannerisms especially when having his panic attacks while Andrew Halley completed this impressive quartet with his lovable characterisation.

All of the supporting characters were very well cast and convincing in their roles.

A minimal set was very well used with the nonintrusive moving of various pieces of furniture used effectively to depict the different scenes. Impressive well designed lighting brought this simple set to life .

This well dressed company put heart and soul into developing their own individual characters and appeared to revel in trying to outdo each other resulting in a cast where everybody was true to the part they played. Star Trek costumes and scenes in the planetarium were visually stunning.

The entire cast was vivacious and dynamic throughout with some powerful singing and excellent characterisations. The production and technical team plus a well balanced orchestra certainly succeeded in making this somewhat fragmented and unusual piece into a production which was most entertaining and thoroughly enjoyable. Congratulations all.

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