Miranda Musical Theatre Company: Georgy Girl: The Seekers Musical - Review by Trish & Raven Swinkels

With superior harmonies and an emotional journey which pulls at the heartstrings, Miranda Musical’s world amateur premiere of ‘Georgy Girl: The Seekers Musical’ is a delight for all ages. The talented cast and crew of Miranda Musical Theatre Company (MMTC) bring together the great Seekers melodies with some wonderful stagecraft and real commitment to the characters.

My reviewing partner for this production, a musical connoisseur of 18 years of age, regretfully knew nothing of The Seekers as we walked in the door of the awe-inspiring Pavilion Performing Arts Centre in Sutherland and yet, after a very engaging 2 hours of song and story, she was hooked and determined to now listen to ‘Judith & the boys’ whole back catalogue on repeat!

With 6 shows jammed into 4 days, the cast of ‘Georgy Girl’ share The Seekers Musical with such passion and energy to a Sydney audience that, whatever generation you may be, you can’t help but fall in love (all over again) with The Seekers’ superb sound and you would swear you are enjoying the real thing, live in concert!

Director Tim Dennis should be very proud of the wonderful team he has assembled to bring ‘Georgy Girl’ to the stage. His direction helps to create some poignant moments through dynamic staging, smooth transitions and effortless character development with a focus on the journey of our fab four as they find their feet in Australia and take their unique harmonies to ‘swinging’ London to find world fame. The Seekers' famous harmonies have clearly been a focus of Danielle Fuller, Musical Director, as we are taken on a dynamic musical journey through the richness of vocal tone, supported by a sweet-sounding orchestra, accompanied by some great swinging 60s moves thanks to Choreographer Chris Bamford. Well done to Bamford for bringing together such an engaging, high-energy ensemble to shake their way across the stage with some well-synchronised moves.

An engaging folk band biography, ‘Georgy Girl’ utilises the classic storytelling device of an onstage narrator, similar to musicals such as ‘Into the Woods’ or even ‘Hamilton’. Hamish Wells, in the role of Ron Edgeworth, skillfully juggles the constant jokes, singing and sombre moments whilst still guiding the audience throughout the entire show - a difficult task that is performed expertly. To put it simply, the character of Ron Edgeworth can either make or break this show… and Wells purely uplifts the entire cast with his portrayal of this nuanced role.

MMTC’s combination of Fuller’s direction and excellent casting creates a dynamic performance, expertly reproducing The Seekers iconic musical tone. The group strays away from the classic musical theatre sound one expects when entering a theatre, instead opting for a more stylistic approach to successfully reflect the original Seeker tracks. This decision, combined with a large and skilled orchestra, immerses the audience fully into the story and time period. High praise  must be given to Emilie Lawson in the iconic role of Judith Durham as she skillfully incorporates a progression in vocal confidence throughout the musical, not only reflecting Judith's own personal progression but also highlighting the three decades that pass in the span of 2 hours.

The strong combination of the four talented Seekers blend so well together and entertain with their quick one liners and wonderful vocal harmonies. As leading lady, Lawson brings her crystal-clear vocals and an endearing vulnerability to Judith. Will Smith, as double bass player Athol Guy, adds a soft maturity and thoughtful demeanor to his role. Songwriting superstar Bruce Woodley is so cleverly portrayed by Jayden Marre, with his regular subtle name dropping creating moments of humour for the ‘in-the-know’ audience member. Alexi Collins channels some of his own band touring experiences when portraying The Seekers story through the role of Keith Potger - who was actually in the audience for Miranda’s opening night. A little nerve wracking perhaps but a real honour for all, no doubt, to perform this biographical piece with an original Seeker admiring their work. 

It may be the story of The Seekers, but the extended cast of this musical, beyond the main four, really help to create an engaging atmosphere throughout the show. Special mention must go to rising star Max Fernandez, oozing sophistication and charm as manager and love interest John Ashby. The role of jetsetting sister Beverley Sheehan is skillfully performed with a recurring stage presence by Mia Fernandez and, as the pushy agent with an eye on the prize, Murray Baker’s depiction of Eddie Jarrett helps to give a solid grounding to the band’s London rollercoaster of touring challenges. And also ‘hat’s off’ to wardrobe and costuming - the cast successfully carries us back in time thanks to your era-worthy clothing choices.

After travelling on The Seekers journey, with an enthusiastic, talented cast and a keen, supportive audience, the penultimate song brings the 18 year old next to me to tears and has us all subtly tapping along nostalgically with patriotic pride and smiles a mile wide. A beautiful rendition of ‘I am Australian’, with the perfect balance of timing, mood lighting and a strong choral sound brings the whole cast together on stage and has the Opening audience on their feet with a standing ovation for all. A fabulous production to mark the world amateur premiere of ‘Georgy Girl’. Miranda’s short run production deserves its own reprise as it is ready to entertain and enthrall generations of community theatre lovers.