Review by Jake Goodall
Enter into the 1960s, a world of glitz, glamour and of course Elvis Presley! With a lack of main stage productions on the Gold Coast, Elvis: A Musical Revolution is a welcome addition! This production is sure to wow audiences young and old, and is not one you want to miss!
Directed by Alister Smith, this production was meticulously created from start to finish. It is clear that Smith had a strong vision for the show and it truly paid off. The performer’s blocking was simple and natural blurring the lines between realism and symbolism. One particular highlight was the ending of Act 1 where Young Elvis watched Older Elvis walk away from his childhood and become and adult. It was particularly poignant knowing of course how Elvis’ eventual passing came to be, it was him walking away from his family, child and life. Just beautiful.
Choreography by Michael Ralph was sensational, Ralph somehow blended modern choreography with typical (and impressive!) moves from the 60s, in doing this the production didn’t feel stuck it created a timeless aesthetic whilst still remaining true to the time period. A commendation must go to the featured dancers, Ralph did not make it an easy task, however it was utterly impressive. Music Direction by Daniel Puckey was equally impressive, vocals were on point all night as was the incredible band. It was great to finally attend a musical where they aren’t afraid of turning up the volume!
Costumes by Isaac Lummins were 60s galore, the typical colours and patterns helps transport the audience into the story. The recreated Elvis costumes were also impressive to behold! Lighting by Declan O’Neill was simple and effective, O’Neill created focus by using directional lighting to help showcase items throughout the show but also ingeniously high others. Set by Dan Potra was grandious, the use of a massive raised platform and moving columns helps to set the scenes and move us thorugh the years easily.
Each performer stood on their own in this production and were incredible, however there were some that gave a stand out performance.
Rob Mallett as the titular character, Elvis. Mallett is Elvis and Elvis is Mallett, there is no difference. Mallett is an incredible performer that took on Elvis’ persona like it was their own, vocals, movement and characterisation was faultless. It was like watching the King of Rock & Roll himself performing on stage.
Noni McCallum gave a beautiful performance as Gladys Presley, their heart and soul were on the table as they performed this role. McCallum was the heart of this production and gave if the life it needed to go from good to great.
Ian Stenlake as Colonel Parker was haunting, after watching the Baz Luhrmann film Stenlake took this horrific character even further than Tom Hanks. The difference between the two was Stenlake made it real, the audience felt as though Colonel Parker was in the room with us. Stenlake gave a stellar performance that 100% topped Tom Hanks’.
Of course we can’t go on without naming the other phenomenal performers: Annie Chiswell (Priscilla Presley), Kirby Burgess (Ann-Margaret), Matt Heyward (Vernon Presley), Sienna Embrey (Dixie), Ben Hall (Sam Phillips), Aidan O Cleirigh (Scotty Moore), Hanlon Innocent (Bill Black), Connor Morel (DJ Fontana). Additionally supporting the production was a rocking team of side characters and ensemble members including: Chrly Williams, Joti Gore, Jo-Anne Jackson, Zuleika Khan, Nic Collins, Lauren Jimmieson, James Macalpine, Callum Marshall, David Sirianni, William Motunuu, Moniquewa Williams, Nicole Vella, Tommy Kent, Rhys James Hankey Finn Walsham and David Duny.
Elvis: A Musical Revolution is a stunning take on the life, trials and tribulations of the King of Rock & Roll. It is a production that could rival those on Broadway with its tight aesthetic and rocking musical numbers this is one not to be missed! Performing at Home of the Arts until 7th of July, do not miss out on this one Gold Coast!
For more information and tickets: https://elvisamusicalrevolution.com.au/
