This evening’s performance of Amelie at NST City was heart-warming, beautifully designed, and technically sound. The story was simple yet incredibly endearing. Amelie’s character, played by Audrey Brisson, was a kind, lovable recluse, who decides to risk everything for love. Brisson performed the character with ease creating an organic and realistic interpretation. Her developing love story with Nino, played by Danny Mac, allowed stunning duets with delicate harmonies which were so intimate I felt privileged to watch. It was clear the two actors had established a deep personal relationship.
The performance was constructed in a box stage with a large built up set creating an underground Parisian Metro station. Many of the main set pieces were adaptable including two pianos which became bars and markets and a photobooth which fluctuated between that and a confession box. Every character was also dressed in Parisian styled clothing. This became an empowering motif, as their outfits represented their laid-back perspective on life, whilst still looking classy and confident. This included silk skirts and longer floral dresses which I loved! Above the station was Amelie’s room, behind an opening grand clock. This room reminded me of the old apartment in the Beauty And The Beast film, so I imagined Amelie’s room to be overlooking all of Paris. To reach Amelie’s room she had a large lampshade in which she could grab an inside handle and glide up to her bedroom. Of course technically this was really cool, it also represented her childish nature and wild imagination.
The cast were also simultaneously a walking band. This included a clarinet, a flute, a double bass, two cellos, two violins, two accordions, two pianos, and some shakers. This created an incredible sound which was versatile and highly impressive. Each character also sung, many having solos, and each singer had an exquisite voice. Whilst playing, the characters had small amounts of movement. They were consistently in sync and their interaction with each other was genuine. Due to the nature of the performance, the piece felt very thrown together in a deliberately beautiful way. It felt natural and that was the best part.
The story was very funny, including a large amount of adult humour. A particularly hilarious example of this is Amelie, dressed as a nun, walking into a sex shop accidentally in search of her love, Nino. This was very funny, exposing her childish and innocent nature. There were other moments like this which gave the performance character and earthiness allowing the audience to relate to each character.
Conclusively, this is an absolutely brilliant musical, arguably one of the best I’ve seen, and something everyone should watch. Their musical talent was flawless, attention to detail unwavering, and dedication to character was purposeful. Watch this show!!
Reviewer - Grace McNicholas
on - 30/9/19
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