A show that will make you smile. Despite a false start the young cast from Hawai’i grab your attention quickly for 60 minutes of songs about growing up and exploring teenage angst, love, friends, peer group pressure, and family ties.
Suitable for all ages, the director, without the advantage of scenery and elaborate costumes, makes this interesting throughout using a range of moves and dance numbers.
Generally a very strong predominately female cast (was it ever another way in youth theatre?) there are a number of strong performances of special note. The girl in the party dress had a solo spot which was a tour de force and was equally good in a family scene only to be matched by her impressive ‘older sister’.
I confess to not knowing the origin of all the songs but ‘Mama I’m a big girl now’ from ‘Hairspray’ was delivered with a lot of punch. The singing was of high quality but some of the more thoughtful songs might have benefited from a radio mic.
Another scene portrayed a teenage party game entitled ‘Seven Minutes in Heaven’ which involves two youngsters in a closet. Before you think badly of today’s youth, it apparently originated in Cincinnati in the 1950’s so early participants will now be nearly 80 years old!
A very clever scene involved tap-dancing penguins was a highlight and testimony to the creative team as well as the performers.
While 11.20am may be a bit unsocial in terms of Fringe-going, it’s a good way to start your day and the company’s talent and enthusiasm are infectious. Coming from Hawai’i there are no grass skirts, a few garlands but lots and lots of happy faces on show.
7-11 August, 11.20am