Reviewed by Janice Bailey
June 2015
It is no mean feat to organize and present a full production involving a number of different groups who rehearse separately and ultimately come together. The Hills Youth Theatre do it very well. Their current production of Anne of Green Gables is an excellent example of the dedication, hours of hard work and teamwork required to bring a script to life. Director Di Mason with the help of Assistant Director, Jasmin Muller, has done a wonderful job in bringing this charming story to the stage.
Peter Collin’s creative set, together with John and Joshua McKay and Ray Bell’s lighting and John McKay’s animation and graphics are effective. The costumes in every detail are excellent and everyone involved in their sourcing is to be congratulated.
Lucie Zodrow as Anne Shirley is perfectly cast and she doesn’t miss a beat in what is a huge role. Chloe Zodrow as Mrs Lynde, the town gossip, is also a standout. Matilda Butler as Marilla and Sam Weissenweber as Matthew present excellent portrayals of these well-loved characters. Zoe Muller as Diana and Eloise Cobby-Smith as the Minister’s wife also shine in their roles. There are so many wonderful ‘cheeky’ moments featuring members of the ensemble – far too many to list. If you love the story of Anne Shirley, ‘the orphan with an imagination’, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to see this production. It is showing at the Stirling Theatre next Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Well done to everyone involved.
