Review: SONGS FOR A NEW WORLD - Shoots for the Stars & the Moon!

A great buzz amongst the audience as the Loft Theatre at Melbourne's wonderful Chapel Off Chapel fills for opening night of "a very rare beast" in Jason Robert Brown's song cycle, Songs For A New World. Blue Saint Productions has brought a wonderful piece to the stage filled to the brim and overflowing with talent!

The opening number, The New World, acts as a prologue of sorts as it establishes the premise of the show and its themes. We are also introduced to the four actors, vocally strong as individuals and coming together with warmth and clarity. Although each song stands alone, the common motifs present throughout in Brown's writing allow for a seamless and artful progression from one song to the next.

Firstly, Teagan Wouters as Woman One displays a beautiful innocence and inner strength. Her vocal tone and range are a perfect fit for this role, as is her acting ability, portraying each character with depth and intelligence. I'm Not Afraid of Anything in the first act showcases her talents wonderfully and is one of her highlights. Man One, played by the marvellous and endearing John O'Hara, requires great vocal expertise. The Steam Train, no easy feat, is a great example of this and O'Hara displays wonderful flexibility and skill - we are in safe hands!

Relative newcomer Linden Furnell has all the qualities audiences want in a leading man; a great voice, good looks and a charming open quality. He does well to hold his own and although some of his acting choices are perhaps too literal at times, vocally he has the goods. The River Won't Flow with O'Hara suits his playful energy and ability to be physically free. Last and by certainly no means least, Woman Two played superbly by Natalie O'Donnell. She is a force to be reckoned with as she brings a wealth of experience and talent to the stage. Every moment is so cleverly and masterfully played as she transforms herself both vocally and physically from one character to the next. Her two most shining moments, One Last Step and Surabaya-Santa are both highlights of the show.

Music Director, Geoffrey Castles marvelously supports the cast and leads the musicians through Brown's intricate score with finesse. Luke Joslin's Direction is of the most part seamless and well realized; although in some moments less is more as the songs speak for themselves. There are very few points to fault with this show however some lighting and sound effects do little, if not distract from key moments playing out on stage. The pirate ship style set is slightly disagreeable, although the various levels do help to create different "new worlds".

Songs For a New World is without a doubt a wonderful production and well worth a night out at the theatre. Together, these four performers are pure joy and a delight to watch as they weave their magic and drive this piece courageously... not afraid of anything!

Book your tickets now at www.chapeloffchapel.com.au

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