Gold Coast Little Theatre’s production of 'Honeymoon in Vegas' bursts onto the stage with all the glitz, glamour, and zaniness of a Vegas showroom. Directed by Tony Campbell, with musical direction by Julie Whiting and choreography by Andrew King and Natalie Cassaniti, this rollicking musical comedy delivers laughs, heart, and toe-tapping tunes in equal measure.
Based on the 1992 motion picture (yes, it’s a film—I was just as surprised), 'Honeymoon in Vegas' is a love letter to cinematic romantic comedies. With a score by the brilliant Jason Robert Brown, best known for 'The Last Five Years', 'Songs From a New World', 'Parade', and '13', the music is obviously excellent, and this talented cast brings every note to life. Even better, the 12-piece orchestra conducted by Julie Whiting is featured live on stage, making us feel like we're in a real Vegas showroom. Watching the musicians masterfully switch between instruments on the fly is awe-inspiring.
This romantic romp takes us from New York to Las Vegas to the sunny shores of Hawaii. Jack Singer (Brody Seignior), is a sweet but neurotic Brooklynite who just can't seem to propose to his ever-patient girlfriend Betsy Nolan (Ruby Hunter). Why? Because of a deathbed promise made to his overbearing mother, Bea Singer (Nicole Rozen). When Jack finally whisks Betsy to Vegas to tie the knot, a charming gambler, Tommy (Andy MacFarlane), cons Jack in a wild poker game and schemes to whisk Betsy away, claiming she’s the spitting image of his late wife. What follows is a desperate chase for love and plenty of musical hilarity!
Brody Seignior is the perfect male lead for this musical. With a divine voice reminiscent of Frank Sinatra or Jeremy Jordan, he leads the cast with a perfect balance of charm and awkwardness. His opening number, 'I Love Betsy', sets the tone for his crooner vocal style, and his Act One closer, 'Do Something', is an absolute showstopper, complete with a powerhouse high belt. Ruby Hunter’s Betsy is endearing and empathetic, her frustration with Jack’s hesitance so palpable that you just want to offer her a hug. Her voice soars in the heartfelt 'Anywhere But Here'. Andy MacFarlane makes Tommy irresistibly suave, with standout moments in the hilariously bleak 'Out of the Sun', a tongue-in-cheek ode to his wife’s unfortunate tanning habits, and his touching ballad 'You Made the Wait Worthwhile' shows a softer side; although whispers through the microphones from backstage slightly distracted from its impact. Nicole Rozen as Bea, Jack’s mother’s apparition, brings melodramatic flair in her number, 'Never Get Married'.
The ensemble is a treasure trove of high-energy performers who keep the laughs rolling from start to finish. Lucy Martin, Samantha Sherrin, George Pulley, and Anthony Vitetzakis are standout performers, bringing comedic brilliance and character depth to every moment. Whether they’re Elvis impersonators or part of the 'Garden of Disappointed Mothers' scene, their energy is riveting.
Tianna Paget as Mahi, the eccentric Hawaiian guide, delivers the hilariously random 'Friki-Friki', and Anthony Vitetzakis leads 'Every Day is Happy in Hawaii', a song that nails Jack's comedic meltdown admidst the exaggerated island bliss. The showgirls number, led by Greyson Vaughn as Buddy Rocky, dazzle in 'When You Say Vegas', complete with big hair, cheesy grins, and sparkling costumes.
The standout numbers are almost too many to count, but 'Forever Starts Tonight' is a particular favourite for me, showcasing gorgeous harmonies between Seignior and MacFarlane. One of the most memorable scenes is the absurd 'Airport Song', where Jack's efforts to return to Betsy are hindered by the airport customer service team's well-meaning assistance. The arrival of Elvis impersonators is a spectacular finale, complete with iconic jumpsuits, sideburns, and killer choreography. By the end, the stage is swarming with Elvises (Elvii?) during 'Higher Love' and 'Elvii in Flight' and 'Honeymoon in Vegas'.
From the shimmering lights of Vegas to the tropical hues of Hawaii, the production design by Brett Roberts (lighting, set, and stage management) and Millie Talbot (costumes) have sprinkled their magic all over the place — from Hawaiian florals to shimmering showgirl outfits. Tony Campbell’s direction is vibrant and inventive, making excellent use of a glitzy, multi-level set that feels straight out of Vegas, along with smaller, easily movable set pieces that transport us from one location to another. He ensures a brisk pace and plenty of visual humour, while Julie Whiting brings out the best in both the performers and the orchestra.
This cast and crew bring endless energy, laughter, and heart, and it’s clear they’re having as much fun on stage as the audience is watching them. 'Honeymoon in Vegas' is an underrated gem of a show, and Gold Coast Little Theatre has done it proud. The combination of a stellar cast, incredible live orchestra, and hilarious story creates an unforgettable night of musical theatre. If you love Guys and Dolls, Elvis Presley, or just a good dose of ridiculous fun, this show is your ticket to paradise.
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