The world of Stranger Things is vast, dark and has the right amount of camp cliche nostalgia, but Stranger Sings! The Parody Musical, however, decides to push this to the extremes and delivers for audiences a tour de force of all singing, all dancing high camp excellence.
Stranger Sings! The Parody Musical knows exactly what it is, a high-octane parody that is equal parts hilarious and witty. A love letter to the source material, the work ensures that each character is finely detailed and fleshed out, making each of the jokes land flawlessly.
Ultimately though, what makes this production work is the shockingly talented ensemble, with each member of the cast bringing a wealth of talent and electric enthusiasm to the text. Ian Andew, Stacey-Louise Camilleri, Jack Duff, Guillaume Gentil, Asher Griffith-Jones, Stephanie John, Liam J. Kirkpatrick, Jess Ridler and Gabrielle Ward make up the powerhouse ensemble, working seamlessly together to elevate the work as whole while generously allowing each performer to have a moment to shine.
Jack Duff and Asher Griffith-Jones are absolute masters of physical comedy, hurling everything they have onto the stage and displaying a level of comedic timing that is second to none. Stephanie John and Stacey-Louise Camilleri are quite possibly two of the most talented performers to ever hit the Melbourne stage. Utterly committed and completely on point, both performers bring a level of performance and gravity defying vocals that would rival any well-worn Broadway diva.
Ashley Taylor Tickell directs the work with such clear and direct focus – allowing the ensemble to make bold and exciting choices and revel in the fun of the world, all the while grounding the work with a strong knowledge of theatrical troupes and reining in the ensemble with a deft hand.
Madeline Pratt’s choreography skillfully creates each character’s physicality and unique mannerisms down to a tee. Each dance number highlights the talent of the cast, working within their own level of ability to celebrate rather than unnecessarily leave a performer out of their depth.
Emily Busch’s costumes and Dave Angelico’s sets thrust the audience back to the 80s and right to the heart of Hawkins. Impeccably detailed and a feast for the eyes, both the sets and costume offer up a deeply immersive world for the actors and audience to fall into. Gabriel Bethune’s lighting design illuminates the cavernous space and creates a bright but equally sinister palette of colour and movement to hold the audience’s gaze.
Salty Theatre have once again proven why they are a force to be reckoned with – constantly raising the bar and showcasing the talents of creatives, this company is no longer one to watch, but rather it’s time to sit up and pay attention. Best not to wait as it will surely sell out, Stranger Sings! The Parody Musical is definitely a welcome addition to the 2022 theatre landscape.
Stranger Sings! The Parody Musical
Meat Market, 5 Blackwood Street, North Melbourne
Performance: Saturday 5 November 2022
Season continues to 19 November 2022
Information and Bookings: www.strangersingsau.com
Image: Stranger Sings! The Parody Musical – photo by Angel Leggas | 3 Fates Media
Review: Gavin Roach