Will this review lead to a death? Let’s find out!
By Annie Zeleznikow
Ruthless follows young and talented Tina Denmark (a shared role between Chloe Halley and Luisa Oro) and her talentless mother Judy (Britni Leslie) in Tina’s quest to lead her school’s production of Pippi Longstocking. Tina is assisted in her pursuits by talent agent Sylvia St. Criox (Dolly Diamond). The show twists and turns, causing audiences to laugh and gasp in the span of minutes. With Direction by Chelsea Matheson and co-musical direction by Dave Barclay and Ned Nixon, this production of Ruthless has clear passion and focus; this production is unflinchingly gallant.
Ruthless is a musical full of silly dark humour, that is showered in sweet language and melodic music. With bold vocals and even bolder looks, Oro won me over, and I became a fan of the devilishly talented toe tapping Tina. Leslie portrayed a ditzy doll from years gone by as Judy. Leslie was able to enrapture both the naivety of her character, and the sexy sultry version of Judy that appears in the second act. Diamond grounded the first act as Sylvia, acting as an advocate for Tina’s career.
The lighting throughout the show is dynamic and engaging. Jason Bovaird (the lighting designer) was able to capture the drama that this cult classic show requires. Songs became layered through the lighting work. The strong and forward design of Ruthless’s set reflects and magnifies the themes of the show; mainly talent and revenge. Ruthless is a period piece, and this production captures the decade specific atmosphere. The costumes and wigs in particular (designed by Britni Leslie) magnificently add to the theatrics.
Ultimately this is a show about generations of woman and how they interact with each other, which made watching this show with my mum a wonderful experience. We both agreed that this hilariously fabulous show was a delightful evening together. The show puts it best, this production of Ruthless is “Criminally Talented.”
Ruthless: The Musical is playing at The Alex Theatre until 24th of March.
For more information and tickets: https://alextheatre.au/ruthless-the-musical/
