'Leader of the Pack' by Balaklava Community Arts - Review

'Leader of the Pack' by Balaklava Community Arts - Review

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Posted 2017-10-18 by Nathaniel Masonfollow

Sat 14 Oct 2017 - Sat 21 Oct 2017

Twistin' and shaking their way across the stage, Balaklava Community Arts are 'havin' a gas', rockin' the Balaklava Town Hall as 'BCA Records' in their October presentation of 'Leader of the Pack, The Ellie Greenwich Musical'.

Wall hung vinyl, a striking teal-trimmed Harley Davidson and neon jukebox greet audiences on arrival, setting the rock'n'roll scene for an energetic performance of toe-tapping tunes in this ' jukebox musical '. Based on an original concept by Melanie Mintzwith, ' Leader of the Pack ' celebrates the life and times of Brooklyn-born writer and producer Ellie Greenwich , whose doo-wop sounds skyrocketed to the top of the pop charts in the early to mid-1960s. Greenwich was responsible for classics that include 'Chapel of Love', 'Da Doo Ron Ron', 'Be My Baby', 'Do Wah Diddy Diddy', 'And Then He Kissed Me', 'River Deep - Mountain High' and, the title song, 'Leader of the Pack'.



Director Eleisha Arbon has brought together colourful costumes with an uncomplicated set that leaves plenty of room for the energetic cast to do their thing in the big numbers and the audience to focus on the tender moments. Heidi Zerk as Musical Director, leads the orchestra who get plenty of moments to shine, positioned on stage for the duration of the show. It's great to have a view of the orchestra doing their thing and audience reaction showed how much their performance was appreciated. Choreography by Tahlia Crickmar springs into delightful action from the opening number, which has the cast (and herself!) 'dancing holes in their soles' and highlighting the classic 60's moves in lively ensemble numbers. The production team have done a swell job working with both cast and orchestra to perform the challenging steps and complex harmonies that define the sounds and steps of the era.

Marni Greenshields plays the star of Ellie Greenwich, showing head strong determination to succeed. Her portrayal is genuine, with great comic timing and cheek when it's time to talk 'Hanky Panky'. Luke Brown is lovably charismatic as Jeff Barry , portraying his journey to becoming Ellie Greenwith's partner in both love and music. Greenshields and Brown harmonies are 'right on' and they lead a clear crowd favourite number where the boys chorus shines in 'I wanna love him so bad' / 'Do Wah Diddy'.



Those soulful girl groups of the 60's are well represented. Kelly Bickle delivers gusto sound and a standout performance as Darlene Love , with Waverley Palmer and Alex Chapman in support as ' The Crystals '. Their sparkling gowns and a stellar sound surround the classic chrome microphone in 'Wait 'til My Bobby Gets Home', 'Why Do Lovers Break Each Others Hearts' and the Grammy Hall of Famer, 'River Deep, Mountain High'. Sophie Brown leads New York girl group ' The Ronettes ' with Carmen Palmer and Abbey Bubner in a delightful rendition of 'Be My Baby', a gentle 'Chapel of Love' and title song 'Leader of the Pack'.

Choreographer Tahlia Crickmar also plays the role of an 'older' Ellie Greenwith as the story moves into the 80's, with a cheerful 'Da Doo Ron Ron' and rousing 'We're Gonna Make it After All'. The whole ensemble deliver great energy throughout the show, well supported by consistent staging and scene changes by the crew and orchestra.



Balaklava Community Arts performance of 'Leader of the Pack' delivers an endearing balance of laughter and loss with plenty of groove. In a jukebox style musical, hit songs are the hero and they deliver that in spades - even the mirror balls get a workout! Giving an extra edge of authenticity, audiences can enjoy a cabaret-style setting to throw themselves back to Tin Pan Alley, tap and clap along with the songs of the 60's. You're even welcome to sing along!

Doo Wah Diddy Diddy yourself a favour and make sure you Doo Ron Ron your way out to Balaklava to see this one.

Remaining Shows;
Friday 20 October 2017 7:30 PM
Saturday 21 October 2017 7:30 PM

Ticket prices:
Adult $25
Concession $20

Balaklava Town Hall, Wallace Street

#child_friendly
#community_events
#community_theatre
#concerts
#escape_the_city
#family_attractions
#greater_adelaide
#northern_suburbs
#theatre
#things_to_see
#tourist_attractions
#october
!date 14/10/2017 -- 21/10/2017
%wnadelaide
160964 - 2023-06-14 18:31:53

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