SING-A-LONG-A SOUND OF MUSIC returns to Sydney’s State Theatre with the same winning formula as in previous years. When a fan’s knowledge of any classic film is paramount, their avowed contribution to an audience-interaction event also elaborates on the flow of that film extensively. Many hills are alive with such an experience of the Oscar award winning movie. This theatre is alive with predictable and unpredictable reactions to the unfolding tale.
Interactive theatre is alive through the audience’s use of supplied props and others brought from home. Recurring jeering at characters as in pantomime and actions to accompany classic songs are well maintained by the crowd. Rules for such behaviour are clearly set out for the novices.
This concept pays tribute to the music of Rodgers and Hammerstein and the production values of a much loved film. Accurate and confident singing abounds from all ages around the theatre. However, the emphasis is on the audience keeping busy and having fun. The costume parades never disappoint and make both the prelude to the screening and audience areas colourful.
Audience members can exercise their skills at comment and well-timed quips. Perhaps these are increasingly well-honed this century through social media activity. At times the result is a very dense and hilarious commentary posted in counterpoint to the unfolding of the 1965 film.
Sing-A-Long-A Sound of Music is refreshing as a performance event, which even in 2013 is under no advancing threat of losing its hilarity. It allows major fans of the Sing-A-Long-A style and others revisiting the movie the chance for a fun and uninhibited night out.
SING-A-LONG-A SOUND OF MUSIC played the State Theatre, Market Street, Sydney for two evening performances on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th February and a matinee performance on Sunday 27th February, 2013.
© Paul Nolan
24th February, 2013
Tags: Sydney Stage Reviews- SING-A-LONG-A SOUND OF MUSIC, Rodgers and Hammerstein, State Theatre Market Street Sydney, Sydney Arts Guide, Paul Nolan