OBSERVER: 42nd Street


Babirra Music Theatre sparkled in its 70th anniversary year with a fabulous interpretation of the classic toe-tapping musical 42nd Street, presented at The Round Theatre, Nunawading,
The masterly directorial and choreographic talents of Alan Burrows and Susan Lewis merged for their 13th collaboration and third visit to 42nd Street, creating one of the best versions ever seen of this iconic show.
Musical director Marty Macaulay’s splendid orchestra rendered the wonderful Broadway standards with verve.
Set at the height of the Great Depression, 42nd Street tells of aspiring chorus girl Peggy Sawyer arriving in New York from Allentown, Pennsylvania, and landing a job in the new Broadway show Pretty Lady. Leading lady Dorothy Brock breaks an ankle near opening night, Peggy gets her big show-biz break, and a new star is born.
Babirra’s interpretation celebrated the glamour and magic of show-business with gusto, also offering realistic contrast to depict the raw, not-so-glam aspects, using projected background imagery. Great to see a live piano and pianist onstage for the auditions.
Dynamic Suzie Ryrie (Maggie Jones) and Jeremy Russo (Bert Barry) infused terrific energy into the show, and Nicole Kapiniaris-Anson (Dorothy Brock) delivered a strong, beautiful performance, utilising her impressive vocal range.
Chelsea Hyde charmed as talented Peggy Sawyer, and Richard Thomas captured director Julian Marsh’s demanding and gentle sides, demonstrating lovely vocals. Charismatic Oliver Pinkett was great as Billy Lawlor, as was Rob Blowers’ portrayal of Pat Denning.
I also really enjoyed Tim Maloney as Abner Dillon, Jordan French’s performance (Andy Lee) and vivacious Madeleine Magetti’s portrayal of Annie. Hats off to the whole cast for their first-class performances, particularly the dancers for their superb tap routines.
Costume design was created by Ely Tapp – some were absolutely stunning – and Chris Anderson’s set design was stylish and effective. Adding further atmosphere was lighting by Deryk Hartwick and Marco Lo Ricco’s sound design.
Congratulations to all involved with this outstanding production.
Review by Cheryl Threadgold

Pictured: Billy Lawlor (Oliver Pinkett) and the 42nd Street cast.
Photo: Matthew Chen.