REVIEW: Bonnie & Clyde – The Most Wanted Show In Town!

REVIEW: Bonnie & Clyde – The Most Wanted Show In Town!
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The Tony-nominated musical Bonnie & Clyde hits the stage and promises to be the most entertaining and original show currently playing in Sydney.

Bringing Bonnie & Clyde to the stage may have been deemed as a financial risk for the producers for two reasons. Would Australian audiences warm to a theatrical production concerning two murderous 1930s American fugitives on the run and more importantly would it successfully allure audiences as a musical?

The response to both these questions is an overwhelming yes! For something completely different this is the show to watch, a show that should appeal to all mature audiences.

Will Motunuu and the cast of Bonnie & Clyde. Photo: Grant Leslie Photography.

This musical is based on the infamous American duo who travelled through Central America during the Great depression robbing banks, small stores, and funeral homes. They were considered criminals to law enforces but heroes to common folk.

The production features music by the legendary Frank Wildhorn, lyrics by Don Black and a book by Ivan Menchell. The music has been written in a way that is very unique to this musical. There are styles of music that are not typically found in most music theatre productions including soul, gospel, and rockabilly.

The fabulous cast of 16 are led by Teagan Wouters and Blake Appelqvist, respectively in the titular roles. There are many factors to the success of this production, notably the casting of the two leads whose remarkable vocal abilities and performances redefine the word ‘excellence’ spellbinding audiences in the process.

Teagan Wouters, Blake Appelqvist. Photo: Grant Leslie Photography.

Humour and wonderful Southern charm welcomingly emit through the darkness and violence that rapidly accelerates in the narrative. But what stands out amongst all this violence is the enchanting love aspect of the story. Bonnie aspired to be a Hollywood actress and was smitten by Clyde when they met. A mutual attraction and love developed which made Bonnie decide to stand by her man and enter the gritty world of crime.

The Hayes Theatre has always prided itself in presenting shows that may be described as alternative yet captivating, where word of mouth has been their best means of promotion. This is the perfect venue for the musical to be staged. It’s close up and personal, and audiences may feel they’re on stage alongside these characters as the mesmerizing production of Bonnie and Clyde unfolds.

Until Jul 17. Hayes Theatre Co, 19 Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point. $69-$75+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.hayestheatre.com.au

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