Thirteen

TADAMS Youth Cast staged Thirteen with energy, telling the story of Evan Goldman, a New York teen whose life is upended when his parents’ divorce and he is forced to move to small-town Indiana. The production followed Evan’s desperate bid to fit in and throw the perfect Bar Mitzvah, all while navigating the social politics of teenage life.

Gregor Paterson led the cast as Evan, maintaining a consistent character arc as he tried to balance friendships and popularity. Alongside him Bethany Wylie played Patrice showing a sense of loyalty. Both handled the demands of the roles with assurance, particularly during moments of inner conflict and transition. 

Daniel Wylie’s portrayal of Archie was a highlight. He delivered a performance filled with wit and emotional nuance, balancing Archie’s manipulative edge with an underlying vulnerability. His comedic timing was sharp, and his vocal delivery added to the character’s authenticity and heart.

As Lucy and Kendra, Gabi Patino Mains and Sofia Ferras-Daly brought contrasting personalities, capturing the competitiveness and romantic entanglements at the centre of the school’s social drama. Scott Morgan’s Brett was a nice portrayal, showing a confident stage presence. Rio Rennie (Eddie), Logan McKay (Malcolm), and Lennon Milne (Richie) supported the school’s social hierarchy with well-rehearsed movement and character work.

Emily Goudie, Ruby Martins, and Lauren Greenfield (as Molly, Cassie, and Charlotte), contributed meaningfully to group numbers and transitions.

The ensemble added colour and atmosphere and many showed excellent stage presence throughout the production.

Jonah Phillipson Masters and Julia Wojton brought levity from the orchestra pit providing moments of calm in the otherwise fast-paced teenage world.

Musical direction by Shona Morgan ensured that vocal harmonies were cohesive, and diction was largely clear throughout ensemble numbers. Choreography by Stuart Whyte was appropriate to the age and ability of the cast, with movement sequences delivered in time and with confidence.

Lighting was used effectively to define spaces and moments to the simple but clever set configuration. Stage management by David Nicoll ensured smooth transitions and tight cueing across the show.

In all, Thirteen was a well-prepared youth production with a strong sense of story and a cast directed to show capability and commitment. 

Well done everyone.

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