In some countries, motivations for shopping in second-hand stores could be as diverse as thrift, environmental activism, or entertainment. There’s a bit of this, and more, in Op Shop ‘Till [sic] You Drop, a “comedy musical” written and directed by Victoria Angelique Mertzanidis.
Across a day of trading, an unwilling store manager (why she would continue to work there is a mystery) would have to deal with four clients, and sometimes become involved in their musical numbers. Much like the offerings in a typical opportunity shop, quality could vary.
Whilst some performers had particularly good voices, it seems possible that their wares could be shown in a more flattering light at times. Specifically, vocalists may not have been in their comfortable range for entire songs. Similarly, harmonies could be quite good, depending on the groupings, and whether performers’ volumes were suitable for the situation.
Certain potentially good ideas were stretched until they were threadbare. For example, a song on finding a quality garment repeated itself without advancing the story. It would be useful to consider how much elements such as this one are adding to the scene.
But, there is a nice “meet cute” between alt-girl Scarlet and a teapot collector that gave us one of the more amusing ditties. This is a young ensemble, and with a bit more experience, they should develop a better sense of which ideas to upcycle, and which to leave on the rack.
Op Shop ‘Till You Drop
The Butterfly Club, 5 Carson Place, Melbourne
Performance: Tuesday 25 March 2025 – 5:30pm
Season continues to 6 April 2025
Information and Bookings: www.comedyfestival.com.au
Review: Jason Whyte