Presented by The Metropolitan Musical Theatre Co of SA Inc. (aka The Met)
Reviewed 15 October 2015
The Metropolitan Musical Theatre Company of SA are offering audiences the chance to experience a classic, much loved musical that has been successfully performed around the world for the past 40 years.
Evita is a definitive 1970’s musical from the extraordinarily talented duo of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. It follows the life of charismatic Eva Duarte De Perón, from her early adulthood and desire for the bright lights Buenos Aires, her success and rise to popular adoration, through to her marriage to Argentinian President Juan Perón and her eventual death.
It is an ambitious musical to tackle and this production has come up with an uneven performance. Unfortunately the singing of the lead roles was not consistently good, beginning the show unsteadily and missing key notes. Perhaps, though, this was opening-night nerves as the performances grew stronger as the show progressed.
Impressive performers include Ellis Dolan, who plays Che Guevara as the critical narrator of the story. His powerful singing voice and commanding physical presence lends authority to his combative role as devil’s advocate and fierce critic of the seemingly glorious and glamorous Perón couple. His presence on stage is compelling and he steals the show in several scenes.
Kelsey McCormack as Perón’s mistress gives an emotional rendition of “Another Suitcase in Another Hall” after being dumped by Perón as his attention turns towards Eva. Her fine performance continues as part of the ensemble which is the glue of the whole production as the voice of the Argentinian people. They are fantastic in their singing, dancing and the energy they project to the audience. They provide a dynamic platform for the lead characters to build upon. Cute additions to the ensemble cast are the two young girls, especially Zara Miller who delights with her charming solo.
A mention must be made of the high standard of the costumes, particularly Eva’s range of glamorous and colourful dresses. This professional standard continues with the design of the multi-levelled set which is an impressive addition to a basic stage.
This is a good performance that may grow stronger as its brief season unfolds, as there is huge potential in this cast and its production.
Reviewed by Georgina Smerd
Twitter: @Georgie_xox
Venue: Arts Theatre, 53 Angas Street, Adelaide
Season: 15 – 17 & 20 – 24 October
Duration: 120 minutes (including 20 minute interval)
Tickets: $19.90 – $34.00
Bookings: http://metmusicals.com.au/?page_id=32
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