The Boy From Oz

It’s been 13 years since The Boy From Oz first hit the stage as a musical, giving new life to the story and music of the great Australian singer/songwriter Peter Allen.

 Producers: The Production Company
 Venue: Capitol Theatre, Sydney

 Review Date: February 27, 2011

It’s been 13 years since The Boy From Oz first hit the stage as a musical, giving new life to the story and music of the great Australian singer/songwriter Peter Allen.

In 2011, the show still has all of the flair and excitement it did back in 1998, even though this version at the Capitol Theatre is somewhat scaled down.

But the strength of a musical can truly be tested when all the bells and whistles are taken away, and The Boy From Oz still manages to stand tall in ‘Production Company’ form.

The highlight here is not Todd McKenney – who, by the way, has matured wonderfully, and plays the lead role in a more relaxed and comfortable fashion – but the tremendous direction of Nancye Hayes, a true theatrical icon.

Her direction here is full of the musical theatre style and pizzazz one would expect from such a veteran, and the high-kicking line that opens the second act is fantastic and testament to her style.

The supporting cast is strong – Fem Belling nails the role of Liza Minnelli, whilst Alex Rathgeber brings the required mixed emotions to Greg; and brings a tear to the eye with ‘I Honestly Love You’ in the second act.

Sun Park, Claire George and Samantha Morley are fun as the trio of girls backing up the enigmatic McKenney, whilst Robyn Arthur brings a touch of style and class to the role of Marion Woolnough.

Not unexpectedly, the songs steal the show, but the wonderful thing about The Boy From Oz is how it can switch from flair and flamboyance to raw emotion – McKenney’s duet of ‘Tenterfield Saddler’ with the real Allen (on screen) still brings a tear to the eye.

For those who loved The Boy From Oz back in the late 1990’s, this is a great opportunity to re-visit a great night in the theatre. For those who missed out, it’s a chance to what all the fuss is about.

At more than $115 a ticket for premium seating, there is perhaps better value around at the moment,  but if you can score a lower priced ticket, it’s still worth the adventure – even from the back rows the magic will not be lost.