Disney’s Tarzan the Musical wowed its audience at the opening night at Twyford Hall in Merimbula on Friday, November 30.
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More than 250 people attended the cabarets and matinees on the opening night and were thrilled to see Merimbula-based Dreamcoat Theatre Productions’ musical come to life.
The night began in the dark of the African jungles, as the Phil Collins music of Joe Fragnito’s Band quickened the pulse.
The professional African-themed costumes, scenery, lighting, sound and effects transformed Twyford Hall into a fantastical equatorial jungle world where great apes and leopards roamed and fought for survival by mystical waterfalls.
African spirits trapped unsuspecting adventurers, Victorian sailing ships ran aground in mighty storms, the 50 strong cast and crew drew on stagecraft skills that professional theatre companies in the big smoke would be envious of.
The production is based on Disney's epic animated musical adventure and Edgar Rice Burrough's Tarzan of the Apes. Tarzan features heart-pumping music by rock legend, Phil Collins and a book by Tony Award-winning playwright, David Henry Hwang. There is high-flying excitement and hits like the Academy Award winning, You'll Be in My Heart, as well as Son of Man and Two Worlds which make Tarzan an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Tarzan The Musical is for both young and old. Families have loved the show so far, commenting “it is entertaining, it leaves you singing your favorite numbers and reflecting on magical moments as you walk out the door.”
The story of Tarzan, an orphaned boy raised by apes and discovered by Victorian scientists and ruthless adventurers is timeless. This is a story told in modern pop-culture with modern music but with all of the fascination of traditional musical theatre.
“There is so much to see and take-in during the two hours of the show, it is not surprising that a number of patrons have already attended twice!” director Victoria Cordova said.
“One four year old attended with his grandparents and typified the allure of the story as he yelled, ‘the leopard is dead! The leopard is dead!’ as Tarzan fought and overcame his feared life-long foe.”
“His exclamation which broke the tension allowed the whole audience to breathe, laugh and relax after the dramatic fight. This is what community theatre is all about!” she said.
Tarzan the Musical continues with matinees and evening concerts from Wednesday, December 5 until Saturday December, 15. Tickets are available online at dreamcoatmerimbula.wordpress.com or during showtime at Twyford Hall.