REVIEW: Yarramadoon – The Musical

REVIEW: Yarramadoon – The Musical

It’s a funny name and it’s a funny show. Very funny. Writers/directors/stars and sisters Eliza and Hannah Reilly use the idioms, quirks and ockerisms they observed growing up in the real country town, Yarramadoon, to create a hilarious, absurd, vaudeville come sketch comedy musical parody with a touch of sentimentality.

The two women play several characters each, making for some hysterical quick costume changes. They are joined at the side of the stage (and sometimes at the centre) by keyboardist/sound designer/actor Matthew Predny who is wonderfully deadpan and almost steals the show with his heart-rending ballad as an ibis. Yes. An ibis. 

The show is fast paced and for all its raucous humour, actually has a compelling narrative arc. While their lampooning of small town Aussie stereotypes pretty much treads familiar territory, it’s their chainsaw wit, flawless timing, and confident, charismatic performance that raises this show above any comparisons. The songs are well structured with incredibly clever lyrics and strong melodies, and while no one but their parents would argue that either of the sisters has a particularly good singing voice, there is virtue in their delivery.   

The downstairs theatre at Belvoir is small and minimal, which is in fact perfect for this show. Eliza and Hannah interact frequently with the audience, and the intimacy of the venue gives it a comedy club/cabaret type feel. 

Your cheek muscles will hurt, your sides will ache, you may even end up with damp underwear, but you will have enjoyed every minute.

Until Aug 11. Belvoir Street Theatre, Downstairs, 18 & 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills. $25+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.belvoir.com.au

Reviewed by Rita Bratovich.

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