Holroyd Musical and Dramatic Society: The Music Man - Review by Kevin Rodrigueza

Holroyd Musical & Dramatic Society celebrates its 170th production with the classic musical

‘The Music Man’, a fitting show that explores the importance of community and music’s

transformative power. Direction by Courtney Bell leans into the stylised world of the script

and transports audiences into the heart of the small Midwest town of River City, Iowa in

1912.

Marcus Hurley as Harold Hill was brilliant, conveying the protagonist with precision and

charisma. Hurley showed peaks and valleys with his performance as the slick con man

disguised Music Professor out to scam the whole town. He showed the audience that he was

always in control and played this role with charm and a captivating presence.

As with a lot of golden age musicals, Harold Hill is contrasted with the ‘playing-hard-to-get’

romantic interest that is Marian Paroo (Melanie Sestic). Sestic delivered a grounded and

sincere performance of Marian, with vocals that blended warmth and clarity. Marian was

complex and reserved but showed compassion and romance underneath her tough exterior.

I was captivated by Sestic ever since ‘Goodnight My Someone’. Another big highlight in the show was ‘Marian the Librarian’ which showcased the brilliant chemistry Harold and Marian

had.

Christ Rutter as Marcellus Washburn was the fun sidekick to Harold that made audiences

chuckle with laughter all through the night. Rutter was goofy, animated, and consistently

gave high-energy delivery, which was unmatched.

The cast’s energy was consistent throughout this production. There were no noticeable

opening night jitters; the cast felt relaxed in their roles and delivered hearty performances

throughout. Favourite numbers included ‘Pick A Little, Talk A Little’, ‘Gary Indiana’, and ‘The

Wells Fargo Wagon’.

Music Director Susan Brown orchestrated a capable band that propelled the heart of the

show. The clever use of the band on and off stage enabled numbers like ‘Seventy Six

Trombones are to be immersive for the audience. Choreographer Dimitri Antoni executed

accessible choreography and created visual impact. The ensemble’s dances were

thoughtfully staged.

I also really like the way the theatre was utilised in a runway style that stretched out from the

proscenium stage. It gave depth to the show and enabled the world to be a lot more

immersive.

The HMDS team delivered a memorable 170th production and showed what the power of

community and music can do. Big kudos to the whole cast, crew and band on this wonderful

production!