Director: Jeff Calhorn
Choreographer: Lisa Stevens
Reviewer: Lyndsey Holmes
'What time is it?' Its time for High School Musical 2 live on stage! Love it or hate it, there is no denying how popular the High School Musical movies have become, and this stage adaptation of the 2nd movie did not disappoint the hundreds of excitable children in the audience.
High School Musical 2 continues where the first movie left off, with our favourite East High students heading off for their summer break. The Wildcats all get summer jobs working together at the exclusive Lava Springs country club, only to find the parents of scheming Sharpay Evans own the resort. She wields her remarkable power in an attempt to win Troy away from Gabriella but as you would expect everything turns out okay and the rivals are united in a big musical finale!
The show is extremely high energy and the cast are all very strong. Liam Doyle, who won his role after a series of auditions on GMTV, does not disappoint as Troy Bolton. His voice is strong and his good looks make him perfect for the part. There is plenty of chemistry between him and on stage girlfriend Gabriella Montez, played by Nikki Mae
but particular mention must go to Lauren Hall who is outstanding as Sharpay.Kenneth Foy’s scenic design is fun and very original and Ken Billingtons lighting design enhances it perfectly. There were a few first night technical hitches, the performance started fifteen minutes late and there were a few problems with sound, but generally a very slick show.
I am sure there will be a lot of people quick to criticise this show but High School Musical 2 is everything it ought to be. Featuring all the songs you know and love from the movie, along with impressive choreography performed by a very talented cast, this show has all the ingredients for a great night out with the kids.
Photos: Eric Richmond
Runs until Sat 19th Sept
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