BONNIE AND CLYDE
Bonnie and Clyde is the real-life story of two American outlaws who robbed banks and became the country’s most notorious fugitives. The story was produced into a Hollywood movie starring Fay Dunaway and Warren Beatty in 1967.
Now the story reincarnates on the stage as a musical and promises to be an incredible night out at the theatre.
Referenced as Sydney’s ‘most wanted’ musical, the cast is led by Teagan Wouters and Blake Appelqvist respectively in the titular roles.
Asked whether Bonnie and Clyde works as a musical Appelqvist responded that he initially didn’t think it would. “It’s quite a dark story with a lot of violence and rebellion but what I think is beautiful about the form of musical theatre is that it utilizes the darkness and pairs it with the light and lends itself to be a good premise for a musical.”
Surprisingly there are many comedic moments in the musical, especially American humour which Appelqvist says are mandatory in such a dark musical.
There’s an orchestra and the cast comprises of 16 performers on stage some of whom play musical instruments. Incorporated are gospel, blues and rockabilly music, not conventionally utilized in musicals. “I think audiences will be pleasantly surprised with how much we can do in such a small space.”
When asked whether Clyde had any redeeming qualities Appelqvist paused momentarily. “I think what is a large selling point for our show and particularly a large selling point for this infamous duo is that his love for Bonnie is something that you don’t see a lot of when it comes to outlaws, criminals, and sociopaths. They shared a twisted but very real love for one another – and a love of violence.”
Appelqvist explained that Bonnie & Clyde’s demise by law enforcers in the final moments of this production will surprise audiences. “This will have the same impact that the gruesome scene in the movie had on all viewers around the world. I remember it was not only an iconic ending to a film, but one of the most brutal endings that any film has ever seen. We want to harness that energy and individualism. We are taking risks and we are making magic!”
Jun 17 – Jul 17. Hayes Theatre Co, 19 Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point. $75 Adult – $69 Conc. Tickets&Info: www.hayestheatre.com.au or 04199 77 649
