You can always rely on Hayes Theatre Co to bring the shows that you’ve always wanted to see but know in your heart that they’ll be a tough bring. Side Show is precisely one of these shows- with its big number “Who Will Love Me As I Am” and its notable conjoined twin role, it’s a rarely-performed show all ready to wow!
Of course the most important thing here is the casting of the twins- and Kerrie Anne Greenland and Laura Bunting shuffle along into the role easily. Kerrie is the perfect Violet- all shy and big puppy eyes, whilst Laura’s Daisy is all sass and eyes sparkling with fierce determination. And their voices meld in such harmony- both standouts on their own and utterly beautiful together. When I finally heard them singing “Who Will Love Me As I Am” I understood what all the fuss was about.
It’s also fascinating to have such equal roles for two leading ladies, and these ladies do it so well that I found myself not knowing who to watch! Not wanting to miss anything I ended up catching myself uselessly watching the space in-between their heads in some attempt to watch both at the same time. Eventually I got into the flow of switching between them, and the fact they’re so physically close comes in quite helpful. It’s obvious that the girls worked hard at smoothing their synchronised movements as well as their voices- never a moment of awkward pulling, or hands in faces, or stepped on toes…
Aside from the twins there are a whole host of other wonderful talents to be found here. Jake (Timothy Springs) was a crowd favourite right from the very first lines of “The Devil You Know”. His voice was another wow factor of the production and really Violet what were you thinking! Ha. Acting wise Berynn Schwerdt’s Sir had the upper hand- his was accent spot on, as was his depiction of a character you both dislike and yet you still manage to feel a little sorry for. The big voice of the production was definitely Daniel Belle though, with perhaps my favourite piece of the whole show- “Private Conversation”. His mesmerizing tenor was perfectly at home amidst the dreamy waltzing and fairy lights.
Side Show a musical with some really beautiful (and really emotionally big) numbers. The story can sometimes feel a little bit snaggy as a result, as it jumps from big song to big song, but it’s enough to keep it moving. What’s really important here is the casting of the voices- and Hayes has made sure to stock this freak show with some freakishly good voices.
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Come see the freaks at Side Show, playing at the Hayes Theatre Co till the 16th October. For more information and to book visit www.hayestheatre.com.au
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