Ally Morgan - Not Today @ MICF 2022 - Review

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Thu 21 Apr 2022 - Sat 30 Apr 2022

I try to approach every show I see like it's a blank canvas, without a strongly pre-conceived idea of what to expect. I really had no idea of what to expect with Ally Morgan. I knew she was young (26), and on a mission to save the world from climate change. I pondered how such a meaty issue could be turned into comedy.

But then Ally bounded onto the stage, energy zinging out of every pore, and we were spellbound.



The story in Not Today is way more complex than simply a plea for action on climate change. It gives a deep dive into just how much of an issue it is for Ally. It bothers her to the point of diagnosable anxiety. To the point of needing professional counselling. If she let it, it would be paralysing.

There are other factors Ally is dealing with, involving grief and loss. To help in coping with this, she participates in a 'guided meditation', and ends up in front of a real live audience. It's a creative and imaginative device that works well.



The issues raised and the stories Ally tells are profound and touching. And yet, what I took away from the performance was Ally's joy and exuberance. And her undeniable talent. Here is a woman who is as comfortable on the keyboard or guitar as she is on a skateboard. She sings like an angel, and she puts her innermost thoughts on the line, time after time. We can't get enough. She's brilliant.



In one of her songs, Ally talks of taking a holiday in Byron Bay. This is ironic because I had just been thinking that I could easily see Ally performing in Bluesfest in Byron Bay. There's no doubt in my mind she's strong enough musically to wow the crowds there.



It doesn't hurt that Ally has the support of the uber-professional multi-award-winning independent theatre and film partnership, Rogue Projects. Kudos to director Miranda Middleton and producer Robbi James. The lighting is also integral to the success of this production, and here the credit goes to lighting designer Aron Murray.

However that's not to take it away from Ally, who writes virtually all her own material, music and lyrics. She presents as a beautiful soul and has a strong and compelling stage presence.

I rate Not Today as one of the best shows I've seen in MICF 2022. The show, and Ally's overall performance, are fresh, dynamic and imaginative. I'm perplexed as to how Ally has missed out on an MICF 2022 award nomination. In my book, she's more than worthy. So go and see this up and coming talent while you have the chance!

You can view Ally singing one of her original songs, 26 for a Week, here:



Not Today is playing at Theatre Works, 14 Acland Street, St Kilda until Saturday 30 April. The session times are:

Saturday 23 April, 7:30pm
Tuesday 26 April, 7:30pm
Wednesday 27 April, 7:30pm
Thursday 28 April, 7:30pm
Friday 29 April, 7:30pm, and
Saturday 30 April, 7:30pm.

Tickets are $25 - $40 (plus b/f). Click here to buy your tickets online.

The show is recommended for audience ages 15 plus. It contains moderate language, references to anxiety, simulated drug use, and discussion of mental health issues.

The running time is 60 minutes.

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!date 21/04/2022 -- 30/04/2022
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