REVIEW BY TARAS SCURRY
EDITED BY AZMY AZURITE
University College rallies in, filling the first floor of the Union Theatre with a buzz of anticipation. It’s opening night and the lights are shining bright, excitement trickling throughout the theatre, cheers flooding through for the first act as Producer and Musical Director Samantha Johnson’s vision springs upon the stage.
The company starts strong, with athleticism from their cheerleaders bounding around, jumping — leaping in fact — and waving their pom poms high. The cast looms large, chiming in with their lines, emboldening the energy and performance of the dancers. Scintillatingly, University College’s fantastic coupling of talent met with apt choice with the cheerleading outfits gleaming red and white under the lights. Compliments to the costume department with Miranda Lupton and Gracie Yewers’ styling being a continuous thread of class throughout the performance.
Thereafter, the cast warms into the play. Will James’ execution of Troy is nothing short of accurate, highlighting the nonchalant swagger of his demeanour. Whilst it appears that James’ natural disposition is not one of a basketball prodigy, he radically embodies the spirit of an athlete. Troy is aided by Gabriella, played by Tessa Floreani, whose voice is beaming and bright, hurling around the theatre like a blissful wind. Together they nail Start of Something New, capturing the hope and optimism of the original movie.
Then the ball is thrown to the jocks helping Troy get his head in the game, succinctly characterising Troy’s struggle amidst his newfound love. Despite this, there is a lack of projection from the overall cast. This leads to a lack of punch and vigour which struggles to harness the play’s full vitality. However, these details are insignificant in comparison to the quality of the overall performance.
Some of the best scenes from Act 1 are with Ms Darbus, played by Margie McGlashen. McGlashen executes this character flawlessly, with her speech and vernacular perfectly matching that of a drama teacher after hours spent with annoying kids in a stuffy room. She, more than anyone, commands the stage and taps into the full vitality of the play. This is bolstered by Harry Brown and Abby Colgan’s magnificent chemistry as Ryan and Sharpay, with brilliant blocking and delivery, each enunciation curated to incite scorn against them.
Sticking to the status quo is present throughout the play, represented in Troy’s hesitation to audition and Gabriella’s mixed feelings about her new school. Once again, a nod to James and Floreani, who likewise display chemistry that give the play a necessary bit of punch. Stick to the Status Quo is performed perfectly, priming the audience for the second act which displays more energy and zeal.
The second half of High School Musical was a triumphant blend of energy, humour, and technical flair that left the audience grinning and humming We’re All in This Together long after the final bow.
Picking up momentum from the intermission, the cast launches into the second act with infectious enthusiasm, resulting in a delivery with polish and punch, showcasing impressive vocal control and choreography that never once lagged in pace or spirit. The ensemble work is especially strong, with every performer bringing individual charisma while contributing to a tight, cohesive group dynamic.
A special mention must go to the lighting design, which is striking without ever feeling overwhelming. Subtle colour changes help frame emotional beats, while dynamic transitions match the show’s high energy. The use of spotlight during Troy and Gabriella’s emotional duet is particularly effective, drawing the audience into an otherwise quiet moment with tenderness and intimacy.
Equally commendable is the production’s comedic timing. The script’s original humour is elevated by clever delivery and expressive performance. Colgan’s dramatic antics bring consistent laughter, as do Chad and Brown’s surprisingly nuanced comic rapport. The director clearly encouraged a playful tone without sacrificing clarity or pacing.
Above all, University College’s production was just plain fun. It captured the heart and humour of a now-classic musical, while adding its own creative spin. With strong performances, thoughtful technical design, and a genuinely joyful atmosphere, this was a second act that made the entire evening feel like a celebration. Bravo!
High School Musical: On Stage! presented by University College played August 28th – 30th at the Union Theatre.
TARAS SCURRY is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Philosophy. He deeply enjoys the arts and is thrilled to be part of The Dialog.
AZMY AZURITE (they/them) is a 2nd year Creative Writing student at the University of Melbourne. In their spare time they enjoy watching theatre, playing video games, and thinking about studying.
The Dialog is supported by Union House Theatre.
The Dialog 