Review: 13 at Pumphouse

Reviewed by Sharon Fogarty

13 is a coming-of-age musical centred on protagonist Evan Goldman and his navigation through his teenage angst in a small town after his parents divorce. With themes of friendship, first love (and loss), bullying, and inclusion this is a musical that mirrors our own teen experiences and will make you laugh and reminisce as you enjoy the show.

Experienced director and theatre practitioner- Emma Bishop- has assembled a group of talented teens on and offstage. Alongside choreographer Zoe Fraser, Bishop has included student assistants in production and creative team roles to grow experience and sustainability. This innovative way of growing knowledge and capacity in students is part of the whanau-feel that StageAntics promotes. This is an inclusive, growing and dynamic space. 

The contemporary music of the show is engaging and upbeat but this is not an easy sing, nor is it a child's musical. There are incredibly talented teenagers filling the stage and Bishop's minimal set allows their acting, dancing and singing to be the main focus. Fraser's choreography is fresh and all cast members are engaged and enjoying themselves performing on stage. 

This is a true ensemble show with multiple opportunities for performers to shine. Special mention to the lead trio- Charlie Hill (Evan) who navigated the storytelling of the show well, finding the comedy and angst, Kazimir Reeve (Archie) who was comedic, likeable and had outstanding pitch and characterisation and Milla Rodrigues-Birch who owned the stage with her rendition of 'What it means to be a Friend'. The power, depth and dynamics in her voice appears endless. This song was a highlight for me. When the trio sing in three part harmony at the end of the show, it is a joy to the ears- their voices match seamlessly.

In the supporting cast, Libby Stanger (Lucy) was delightfully sassy in every scene. She embodied the two-faced popular girl in acting and in voice. I enjoyed every artistic choice she made with her character. Archie Smith (Simon) was a member of the ensemble who stood out in every scene- committed to the character and with a solid voice to match- I see real potential for the future here. The finale, 'Brand New You' allowed a moment of standout vocal riffing for both Matilda Adams and Kaitlyn Darroch- what a way to end the show.

This season is strictly limited so you will need to get in quick to see it but rest assured, StageAntics has performances all across New Zealand and these talented teens are bound to be in more productions in the future!

StageAntics is a performing arts company that provides training and performance opportunities for rangitahi across New Zealand.