Review
Viva Youth
Theatre has done it again. The wonderful stage production of the musical
“Thoroughly Modern Millie” was another triumph for this thriving
organization. The stage was packed with highly talented young performers who
positively sparkled in a swiftly moving, cleverly choreographed tale of
young Mille seeking a better life in the big city.
The strong
cast with well-honed acting skills presented credible characters that gave
enthralling moments of romantic entanglement ranging from quiet
self-reflection to turbulent interaction. The more sophisticated ‘take’ on
exaggerated expressions of ‘being in love’ came across particularly well,
especially in the scene when Mt Graydon (Michael Kowalczyk) and Miss Dorothy
(Philippa Watts) declared their love for each other.
Samantha
Stevens as Millie was admirable. The likeable lad about town, Jimmy (Simon
Thompson) was a good match for Millie, while some of the most effective
moments were created by the evil landlady Mrs Meers (Hannah Schunmann) and
her two marvellously-portrayed Chinese laundrymen: Chin Ho (Daniel Bell) and
Bun Foo (Craig Carpenter). Their unabashed launching into Chinese gave these
two characters credible depth. Elbows Miss Flannery ruled the typing pool
with believable maturity and authority and the exuberant Muzzy Van Hossmere
(Shellie Baigent) positively filled the stage with joyous exhibitionism.
The music,
especially the singing was of a very high standard and the rhythmic throb
and orchestral colouring of the band was very much part of the absorbing
effect.
Other
significant contributors were the dazzling beauties: Millie’s Girls,
Policeman/Dexter (Daniel White), Daphne/Dance Captain (Kylie Brackenbridge),
Matilde (Robyn Howe) and the remaining vivacious, robust and well-drilled
company.
Director
Dan Schunmann should be well pleased with this fine production and the
frequent bursts of spontaneous applause during the production testified to
its great success.
Dr. Rosemary Westwell
