29/06/2022
The reviews are in! Just two more chances to catch this talented bunch. 👏
FUGITIVE SONGS: REVIEW
Fugitive Songs
Music by Chris Miller
Lyrics y Nathan Tysen
Directed by James Foster
Moonlight Theatre
Reviewed by Ruth Agnew
Before Cain Liang had finished a phrase of the opening number of Fugitive Songs,’Reasons to Run’ it was clear this was no ordinary opening night. For a show about flight, Liang’s soaring, effortless notes were a perfect lift off, executed with astoundingly accurate pitch and control. Moonlight Theatre’s NZ premiere of this challenging Off-Broadway song-cycle carousel was an outstanding declaration of the depth of talent working in Otautahi today.
Fugitive Songs is an extraordinary, innovative piece of musical theatre, following the journeys of six unrelated characters as they go on the run, told through 19 songs.The complexity of The ambitious elongated six part suspended second chord voicings were almost spiritual moments throughout, dazzling and entrancing us with a great mix of vocal timbres. The ensemble numbers were breath-taking, with complicated contrapuntal harmonies braided and blended beautifully.
The six singers are tailored to their respective roles. Helen Fahy’s embodiment of a woman worn-down by the domestic disappointment of her marriage to her high school sweetheart was endearingly authentic, and her secure handling of her big notes was admirable. Nellie Evison’s ornamentation in ensemble pieces was heavenly. Ignacio Olmedo had mischief in his eyes and velvet in his voice. Ruairi Dickson was adorably relatable as an awkward Subway Sandwich artist. Krystal O’Gorman demonstrated the way aptly applied dynamics and diction can power a strong song. Her rendition of the darkly comedic ‘Annie’s Party’ was an audience favourite, with O’Gorman using her expressive and evocative voice and face to full effect.
It seems unfair to single out any cast member in such an exceptional team, but Cain Liang had my heart captive from the first song of the show. His star quality was evident in every note he sang, his humble demeanour belying the almost mechanical accuracy of his pitch placement. If this young talent is on the run, I suggest Christchurch musical directors get their jogging gears on and catch this fabulous young talent before he gets away.
Percussionist Mitch Thomas held effortlessly perfect time, tucking us into delicious grooves with a godly feel. Musical Director Caelan Thomas impressively held the reigns from electric piano seamlessly executing the intricate tapestry. Heather Webb’s excellent acoustic guitar playing was embellished by some interesting soundscape effects. The rich, full sound achieved by the trio of musicians was heart swelling.
Fledgling company Moonlight Theatre and director James Foster deserved every second of the elongated standing ovation on opening night. Don’t let Fugitive Songs get away; tickets are still available for this short season at Little Andromeda. Catch them while you can.
Book your tickets to see these talented musical theatre performers in action here: https://littleandromeda.co.nz/show/fugitive-songs/ 🎭
