Being not at all familiar with the “Team Starkid” stable or with but few animated Disney (or Pixar!) movies did not matter at all. “Twisted” by Marie Clark Musical Theatre works a treat on the intimate Goodwood Theatre stage. Director Kristian Latella has the distinct advantage of having a cast of twenty or so talented, malleable actors at his disposal. Their every solitary contribution to the end product is a notable plus. We have such a rich depth of performers here in Adelaide and companies such as “Marie Clark” tap into that resource with unerring accuracy.
The musical template provided by MD Liam Phillips and his “Twisted Orchestra” is well modulated and synced both with the plentiful action on stage and to individual voices. It was a smooth and unobtrusive framework from start to finish. Similarly choreographer Vanessa Redmond provided a well themed and flawless exercise in movement throughout. The small ensemble, all playing minor characters, was well drilled and spot on in each of their routines. This was exemplified by their memorable rendition of “No One Remembers Achmed”, an obvious audience favourite judging by its reception! Whilst the set is sparse to say the least, much of the mood and colour of the piece is transmitted via costuming. Costumes Manager Rachel Lee, her assistant Merici Thompson plus dressers all can feel justifiably pleased with themselves, as can Puppet Designer and Maker Jacqui Bodycomb for “Monkey” and “Bird”. Her creatures are a fun element of the “Twisted” narrative. With a busy production such as this there’s always a lot we don’t see that happens back of stage. The pace and presentation of this piece has the experience of SM Serena Cann to maintain momentum. Even the fog/smoke machine was well under control!
So to the players, and let’s start with the puppets which were skilfully woven into the action and given appropriate voices by Jasmyn Setchell. For me it was a reminder of the very funny, naughty and witty “Avenue Q”. James Hester as the Sultan still seeking to break his “duck”, is likewise on the money with both voice and movement that establishes his character. I really hope his theatre portfolio continues to grow. Scott Beauchamp is a mellifluous Captain of the Guard and in command of his character from the get go. He demonstrates the essence of comedy, good timing and clear articulation. Doug Phillips is equally commanding as the Royal Vizier. With superb vocal control and a distinctive posture Felix Setchell is a most humorous Prince Achmed. He certainly has a tale to tell (and defend!) and a tail to put on view. I and others of a certain age in the audience around me were most amused by his comment “Those are stretch marks; they happen!” His brilliant ensemble-backed number that commences the second act “No One Remembers Achmed” pretty much brought the house down. Rightly so!
Tegan Gully-Crispe is a likeable and believable Sherrezade focussed on her inexhaustible story-telling. She demonstrates charm and self-assuredness in her initial delivery of the prologue and follows that with a confident performance. Her duet with Ja’far “A Thousand and One Nights” is lovely as is their relationship. Michael Coumi’s entrance in act (2) as the Djinn is a real tonic ! (I know! I just couldn’t help myself!) The timelessness of the magical lamp gives him license to quote from movies all ad nauseam. Coumi delivers a nice comic cameo. Axel Moen as Aladdin certainly looks and acts the part. It’s an in your face Wham! Bam! And thank you Aladdin! His movement, antics and vocal delivery are all vey good indeed. The audience really liked his thwarted seduction of the Princess in “Take Off Your Clothes”! (Surely a unique title for any song!)
Sash Elliot voices the Princess to perfection. Her vocal ability is a delight and is delivered consistently with an easy clarity. Her costuming was an apt enhancement of her character. I really liked her solo “Everything and More”. Elliot is very well cast and does not disappoint. Ja’far is presented to us with a deceptively relaxed ease by the talented Ben Todd. With confidence supreme he strolls rather than struts his stuff. Beset by accusation but remaining stoic and focussed Ja’far is an eventual winner both on stage as well as with an appreciative audience. Todd’s vocal ability shines through in all of his musical involvement. It was a performance that pretty much summed up the excellent “Twisted” package. The (mostly) youthful audience certainly thought so and their enthusiastic applause really told the tale.
Photo credit: Daniel Salmond
