I PREDICTED Fame the Musical would be a success after I attended (and failed) the auditions a couple of months ago.
The talented singers belting out Fame songs could be heard over the walls of the studio, making me increasingly nervous and causing me to stumble through my song when my name was called. (Well, that’s my excuse, anyway).
I now think I should drop my career as a journalist and take up fortune-telling because my prediction was spot on.
The light-hearted musical featured ballads from first-class performers, some of who are still in high school, and energetic dancing that brightened the stage.
Although I must admit, after reading the program I felt a little better for not getting into the production, as most of those involved in the show had either completed a degree at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, or were in the process of completing one.
The blurb on Phoebe Jackson, who plays Serena in Fame, reads:
“Phoebe has performed in many musicals, operas and plays and has travelled Europe, Asia and the East Coast on singing tours. In 2006, she was awarded the Tom Kent Scholarship for Top Vocal Student by Perth Modern School and has just completed her 2nd year of Bachelor of Classical Voice and Opera at WAAPA.”
Hmmmm… and here I was thinking that I had a chance of getting into the production! My blurb would have read:
“Carmen hasn’t performed in anything since high school, where she once played a mum in the production No Worries and a minor role in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. In Year 7 she won a school award for public speaking.”
Hardly compares now, does it?
Anyway, back to my review…my favourite part of the show was when Mabel, played by Tina Jackson, belted out a tune, singing about her desire to eat all the time, which was a hilarious and dynamic performance.
I kept waiting to hear her sing again, but besides from a minor solo at the end of the performance, she didn’t.
It made me wonder why she didn’t get a bigger part, with a voice like that.
However, my overall verdict?
Unless you’re a boring sod, you’re bound to enjoy this upbeat musical which is complimented by 10 piece orchestra and diverse set - including a convertible car!
Tickets are available from Limelight Theatre 9571 8591 between 9am and 12pm, Monday to Friday.
The show runs until December 13.