The Wedding Singer

The Zodiacs made a welcome return to the Grange Theatre for their production of ‘The Wedding Singer’, directed by Lou Steggals (a first time director for the group). The set looked good and was utilised well throughout. It was a static set, with a staircase stage right with a walkway above. There were doors as part of the set, which revealed Robbie’s bedroom. Projections were used throughout the production as well, which added to the scenes. Other set pieces were brought on by the stage crew. These changes were done quickly, which helped ensure the pace was kept up. Costumes and wigs were very good, adding to the eighties feel. They were colourful and vibrant, adding to the feel good nature of the production. The props were well researched and sourced, with everything from a keytar to an eighties mobile phone. The Zodiacs are very good at comedy, and there were some great comedic moments throughout this production. The direction was good throughout, with some good stage groupings. The pace was very good as well.

The musical director for this production was Craig Price. It was great watching the band play, and Craig leading them. The reeds section was a particular highlight. There was a real eighties feel to the music, so all credit to Craig and the band for creating this. The vocals from the cast were also very good.

The choreographer for ‘The Wedding Singer’ was Jessica Martin. The choreography was good and executed well. Hints of famous eighties dances were used throughout the choreography, such as Michael Jackson’s ‘Thriller’, giving a nostalgic feeling to the numbers.

The lighting was good throughout, with some great colours used. The sound was a bit hit and miss throughout. Mics were cued in late, and there was one that kept going off and on. The sound balance between the band and cast was good though. It was just a shame about the mics.

Blair Smith gave a fantastic performance as the protagonist Robbie Hart. This was a performance full of charm and wit. Blair created believable relationships with Kirstin and his fellow bandmates. His vocal performance was strong throughout, and he had the opportunity to play the guitar, which brought sincerity to the character, especially during his duet, ‘Awesome’.

Kirstin Dunn matched Blair’s performance as Julia Sullivan. There was a good innocence to the character at the start of the production, which slowly faded as her true feelings were revealed. Kirstin created good, believable relationships with everyone on stage, especially with Blair. Her numbers were very well performed as well.

Tom Ray gave good support as Sammy. He created a good, believable relationship with Chloe. The audience were willing that their characters would end up together again. Tom’s vocals were good throughout.

Tayler Spruce gave a good comedic performance as he flamboyant George. He worked well with both Blair and Tom as the band, creating a good relationship with them. The audience loved Taylor’s performance, and particularly enjoyed his numbers.

Chloe Pennington played Holly. Although perhaps a little bit nervous, it was a good performance from Chloe. She performed well and executed her songs and dancing particularly well. There was a believable relationship created with the rest of the cast.

Glen Guglia was played by Mackauley Carter. This was a very good interpretation from Mackauley. He played the smarmy Glen very well. Mackauley led ‘All About the Green’ very well, with some excellent dancing.

Kate Walker was very funny as Grandma Rosie. To find out this was Kate’s first time acting on stage was surprising, as her performance was confident and completely natural. Her performance of ‘Move That Thang’ was hilarious and brought the house down. A great performance.

Libby Marshall seemed to be affected most by the mic problems, with hers going on and off throughout the production. This did not detract from her performance though. Libby put 100% into her performance. ‘Let Me Come Home’ was very well performed with great vocals and dancing.

The ensemble did well throughout the production, playing everything from wedding guests to revellers to Hollywood look-a-likes. The ensemble really added to the humour of the production, especially during ‘Pop!’ and ‘Single’. The featured dancers did very well, with particular mention to Iona Anstice who was very expressive throughout.

Overall, this was a very good production. There were great leading performances, excellent support and some great comedic moments.

Thank you to the Zodiacs for their warm welcome and kind hospitality. All the best for your next production, ‘Beautiful’, next year.

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