Prehistoric production a night of ridiculous fun

PHOTO: SUPPLIED
PHOTO: SUPPLIED
Firebringer, Musical Theatre Dunedin, Saturday March 16.

The spark of human civilisation is kindled in this Stone Age satire.

All is not perfect for the palaeolithic people led by the peacemaker Jemilla, with all that tiresome business of finding nuts and berries and worshipping the Almighty Duck.

It really doesn’t leave much time for singing and this newfangled thing called dancing, which has just been invented.

This sets the scene for a rollicking prehistoric production filled with silliness and song.

Harriet Moir, as Molag the narrator, delivers impeccable comedic timing.

Ariana Gepte, as Zazzalil, is exciting to watch as she pitches impossible ideas such as harnessing stone to kill animals, promptly ushering in the Stone Age.

Clare Lewis, as tribal leader Jemilla, gives a mature and poised performance.

Mason Bouzaid, as Smelly-Balls, provides great comic relief, channelling non sequiturs and hollow posturing.

Despite (mostly) having only one line, Lexie Tomlinson as Chorn delivers a distinctive presence with a fantastic payoff.

There are no bad apples here, with Meko Ng, Mackenzie Waddell, Sam Kelly, Jessica Gill, Hazel Simes and Jay Bailey all inhabiting their roles with great relish.

A shout-out to Jack Hollis-Wilson for giving good face during show-stopping stage entrances and exits.

With an almost entirely female cast, it isn’t really about the men, which is a delight to see.

Kudos for giving fantastic heroines the spotlight.

Max Beal’s beautiful set design establishes the scene with subtlety, offering support without stealing the spotlight.

Shoutout to wardrobe manager June Driver who could make a fortune setting up a fashion boutique in Bedrock.

Musical director Ben Johnson and choreographer Olivia Larkins keep a cracking pace, helping deliver a top-notch experience.

With such a strong start, first-time director Beal is one to watch.

Song after song, Firebringer offers up a fantastic night of fruity language and ridiculous fun.

Further shows Wednesday to Saturday, 7.30pm.