We Will Rock You

Perth Amateur Operatic Society brought Queen’s jukebox musical We Will Rock You to Perth Theatre with real energy and a high performance level. The show depends on pace, character and vocal stamina and this company delivered on all of this.

The action is set in a future where live music and individuality have been squeezed out by a slick, corporate machine. Against that backdrop, two young outsiders Galileo and Scaramouche find themselves drawn into a rebellious group determined to bring back rock, freedom of expression, and the thrill of making music for real.  Director Donna Bell kept the storytelling clear and the humour front and centre. There were some lovely moments in the direction and staging. 

As Galileo, Chris Ewans-Nicoll brought impressive vocal security and a likeable sincerity to the role. His singing was confident across the range and he handled the show’s demanding musical style with apparent ease, giving the audience a strong central performance to invest in. Bekki MacKenzie in the role of Scaramouche caught the humour well, with sharp timing and a clear sense of character. She and Chris worked well together, creating an engaging double-act.

Kirsty McDonald was a formidable Killer Queen, bringing authority and plenty of theatrical bite. She commanded attention whenever she was on stage, and her performance was confident and stylish. Jonathan Cammidge made a solid impression as Khashoggi, playing the part with clarity and good stage presence.  

As Brit, Gavin Russell gave a solid performance and Emma Blackburn delivered an excellent Oz, combining strong vocal work with confident characterisation, bringing warmth to the role. Michael Conlon as Buddy had great character and displayed a confident vocal contribution. He added colour to the Bohemians’ scenes and kept the humour and camaraderie alive. The supporting cast and ensemble all performed to a high standard, and I particularly liked Ewan Alexander’s stylised choreography and movement. Against the backdrop of the laid-back bohemians this worked well.

Musical director Joe Whiteman captured the punch and drive expected of Queen music and the band was well balanced both in the pit and between the pit and stage. Lighting and sound design added to the overall performance enhancing the already well thought out staging of the production. 

This was a highly enjoyable production from Perth Amateur Operatic Society. It was well-cast, musically strong, and direction and choreography well thought out creating an excellent production. Well done!

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