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Respect - A Musical Journey of Women
Venue: Palms at Crown
Reviewer: Simon Parris
Date Reviewed:
30th May 2007
 Respect is a fun
trip through time, focussing on the way women’s songs have told the
story of women across the 20th century. With a suitably
light linking story, it is essentially a concert showcase for four
very talented women.
Australian
Beatrix Christian has taken an existing show called Respect, written
by American Dr Dorothy Macic, and framed a story of three young
auditionees who are guided in their preparation before the auditions
by an experienced star. The 90-minute one-act show encompasses
around 35 classic songs, including Someone to Watch Over Me, Can’t
Help Lovin’ Dat Man, Wishin’ and Hopin’, Stop in the Name of Love, I
Will Survive and of course R.E.S.P.E.C.T..
Rhonda Burchmore
shines and shimmies as Dodie. Towering above the other girls, she is
a believable mother hen/grand diva. Her rendition of Bewitched,
Bothered and Bewildered was a highlight. Rhonda’s classy performance
is certainly one of the main reasons to see the show and fans will
not be disappointed.
Lending fabulous
support, and each shining in their own way, are the three
auditionees Lucy Durack, Belinda Wollaston and newcomer Elenoa
Rokobaro. The opening sees the three girls display typical traits –
there is a blonde, breathy nervous Nellie (Lucy), a bitchy but
actually insecure hussy (Belinda) and an inexperienced raw talent
with a big voice (Elenoa). Under Dodie’s guidance and example the
girls quickly blossom. The show picks up in pace and interest as the
cast begin to perform trios and quartets. These Boots Are Made For
Walking was a show-stopping standout.
 Lucy displayed
her trademark golden hair and voice, and gave a warm and involving
performance. Belinda was in fine voice and was convincing as the
tough girl who gradually chills out. Elenoa, only 17, has a powerful
voice and will be a talent to watch in future productions.
The cast had
clear chemistry and the show was at its best when the characters had
allowed themselves to relax and develop signs of friendship. Given
Rhonda’s star power, it was a nice touch in this ensemble show that
the four performers bowed together.
A rousing finale
of R.E.S.P.E.C.T and an encore of These Boots Are Made For Walking
sent the audience out smiling and humming the score. Palms at Crown
is a perfect venue for this show. Respect is recommended for a fun
girls night out.
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