Review: HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL at Harlequin Theatre
What did our critic think of HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL at Harlequin Theatre?
By: Monica Moore Nov. 19, 2024
Disney's High School Musical
Harlequin Musical Theatre
16-30 November
Reviewed by: Sharon Fogarty
High School Musical premiered on the Disney Channel on January 20, 2006. It became the most commercially successful Disney Channel television film and launched the careers of stars such as Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens. The catchy music, lyrics and 'Grease-style' teenage love story gained many fans worldwide leading to a second movie, spinoff series and a musical stage show.
Harlequin Musical Theatre has assembled a young, talented cast to bring to life a story that is 18 years old but still as toe-tapping and fun as when it first came out. Co-directors Charlotte and Jacob Harris, have created a show that flows seamlessly with minimal set changes, allowing focus to be on the actors and characters they have created. Emily Young, as Musical Director, ensures the familiar pop songs many of us grew up with are given the respect they deserve, as does newcomer Anya John-Francké as choreographer, with iconic dance steps included in refreshed choreography. A standout for me was 'Getcha Head in the Game'- it can't be easy to choreograph with basketballs!
Bringing the characters to life are leads Raquel Carter (Gabriella) and Patrick Cunneen (Troy). Carter plays the role of Gabriella with a wide-eyed innocence and naivety and her soft soprano voice matches beautifully with Cunneens in every duet. Cunneen displays the arrogance of the 'cool kid' at school believably in a role that demands full singing, acting and dancing. His scenes with Coach Bolton showed emotional conflict well and brought depth to his character. Sharpay (Michaela Ralph-Smith) and Ryan (Kenny Stanford) brought the comedy to the show in their roles. Ralph-Smith embodied the selfish diva-with-an-attitude in facial expression and gesture and backed it up with a voice to match. Stanfords Ryan was suitably under-the-thumb of his big sister but equally as talented in song and dance and it was nice to see the clear story arc of being able to 'break free' from his sister's thumb at the end (pun completely intended). The all-singing, all-dancing ensemble was full of talented people and both 'Status Quo' and the 'We're All in this Together' finale showed that every person could sing and dance. Special mention to some featured ensemble performances such as Anna Reyes as Taylor was crisp and officious in acting and voice, Kieran John-Francké (Zeke) and Lexi Buchanan (Martha) who's small solo vocal lines were soulful and stood out in 'Status Quo', Giorgia Beillard (Kelsi) and Toby Scott (Jax) who brought the acting comedy and authenticity to their roles and the comic timing of Sam Pinfold (Ms Darbus) who reminded me of so many passionate and quirky drama teachers I have had in my life.
For a nostalgic journey down memory lane or a lighthearted trip to the theatre, this production will appeal to all ages.
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