OBSERVER: Dog Man The Musical
Dog Man: The Musical , the performance adventure based on Dav Pilkey’s bestselling book series, returns to Melbourne for the school holidays from September 30 to October 4 at the Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne.
Directed by Jason Langley and musically directed by Bev Kennedy, the show follows the chronicles of a canine superhero who loves to fight crime … and chew on the furniture.
While trying his best to be a good boy, can he save the city from Flippy the cyborg fish and his army of Beasty Buildings?
Can he catch Petey, the world’s most evil cat, who has cloned himself to exact revenge on the doggy do-gooder? And will George and Harold finish their show before lunchtime?
This colourful live adaptation features an original book and lyrics by Kevin Del Aguila (Emmy-winning writer of the PBS show Peg Cat) and music by Brad Alexander (See Rock City and Other Destinations), with orchestrations by Lloyd Kikoler.
Dog Man: the Musical had an off-Broadway run at the Lucille Lortel Theatre in 2019 and performances across Australia have included a run at Sydney Opera House.
Arts Centre Melbourne’s season features an Auslan Interpreted performance on Thursday October 2 and a Relaxed Performance on Saturday October 4.
“This season, we’re proud to include an Auslan-interpreted show and a dedicated Relaxed Performance, specially designed for families and children who may benefit from a sensory-adapted experience,” said Mary Harvey, Arts Centre Melbourne’s Creative Producer, Families and Children.
“It’s all part of our commitment to ensuring everyone can experience the joy and wonder of the performing arts.”
Relaxed Performances are for anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment. For the Dog Man: the Musical Relaxed Performance, the house lights will remain on at a dim level, the theatre doors will stay open, and minor changes may be made to some sensory elements, such as reducing bright light and loud sound. A quiet area will be available in the foyer for those needing to take a break. The atmosphere is non-judgmental: noisy enthusiasm is embraced and it’s okay to move during the performance.
Audience members are welcome to bring in and use their own headphones, sunglasses and stimming devices/fidget toys.
Venue: The Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne
Duration: 65 minutes
Age Recommendation: 6+
Tickets from artscentremelbourne.com.au
Cheryl Threadgold
Pictured: Nat Jobe and Josh Whitten in Dog Man the Musical. Photo: Peter Wallis