The race that stops the nation has taken over the Hayes Theatre Co stage in Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical. From the first line to the final note, the phenomenal visuals, soaring soundtrack and roaring energy take us on the breathtaking rags-to-riches tale of Phar Lap, Australia’s equine star.
As the lights dim, audiences are immediately immersed in the high-stakes world of horse racing. Following yet another disappointing race result, owner and trainer Harry Telford, played by Justin Smith, takes a gamble on an unfamiliar contestant, destined to become a household name, Phar Lap, portrayed by Joel Granger.
The show follows his infamous career, the story direct from the horses’ mouth (literally) and backlit by the shifting financial circumstances that shaped trackside and stable politics.
Writer Steven Kramer’s first major work is truly iconic. Phar Lap is a stunning celebration of our history, driven by quintessentially Australian irreverent humour and big heart. Director Sheridan Harbridge has perfectly captured the high energy and neon glamour of both the musical era and the equestrian racing world.
The soundtrack for this musical is exciting, heartfelt and a true delight to listen to. Musical director David Gardos has done an amazing job guiding the cast through the precision and storytelling nuances of the music.
The physicality of this show, including the spectacular choreography by Ellen Simpson, is stunning. I absolutely fell in love with the flawless way the performers moved around the stage. The use of tap to honour the recognisable sounds of the racetrack adds a beautiful splash of pizzazz to the racing and training montages.
The sets, designed by Hailley Hunt, and costumes, designed by Mason Browne, are gorgeous. They transport us beautifully to the era, imbued with a delightful neon twist and flamboyance that sets the tone of the musical from the very beginning.
The space is used very cleverly, and you feel part of the action all the way through. I also particularly loved how the horses are represented, with amazingly detailed ear hats and Converse for horseshoes.
I must take some time to gush about the cast. They are a suite of powerhouse performers who flawlessly deliver the quick wit and emotional highs of the story. Their vocals soar through the theatre, and they hit every step of the choreography with confidence.
Each member of the cast plays multiple roles, and it is stunning to see how quickly they transition between the unique physicality and personalities of each character.
Manon Gunderson-Briggs opens the show as the Announcer, and she narrates the tale with phenomenal physicality and manic energy. Her perfect comedic timing and charismatic delivery are a delightful recurring feature.
Joel Granger is the perfect Phar Lap, representing the Australian icon with youthful enthusiasm and charm. He carries the heart of the story with him in every scene.
Justin Smith performs beautifully alongside him as Harry Telford. He clings desperately to his dream and moral compass through the highs and lows of the era.
Nat Jobe portrays the savvy businessman David Davis with a slimy desperation that is palpable in every interaction with the other characters. In particular, the interactions with Madame X, portrayed by Amy Hack, are phenomenal to witness as we see the two trade barbs and information.
Amy is perfectly devious as Madame X, ruling her showground with flair. I also absolutely adored her manic horse girl portrayal.
Shay Debney plays Jim Pike with a magnetism and potent sexual energy that I truly wasn’t expecting, but found a hilariously delightful contribution to the story.
Finally, Lincoln Elliot imbues the perfect blend of sibling energy into his portrayal of Phar Lap’s half-brother, Nightmarch. He also perfectly captures the trademarks of another famous Australian icon as a recurring guest appearance. (I can’t quite remember his name, it was something like, Ronald Gladman?)
Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical is a delightful homage to this icon of Australian history. This tale is told in the only way we can truthfully represent it, through irreverent humour, witty one-liners and an energy that reflects the true heart and soul of Australian culture.
Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical is absolutely one for the history books. I can highly recommend heading over to Hayes Theatre Co to catch this show before the race is over.
Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical runs to 22 November at Hayes Theatre Co. 19 Greenknowe Avenue Potts Point NSW 2011.
Tickets are available here.
Website: https://hayestheatre.com.au/event/phar-lap-musical/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/hayestheatreco_official/
Photo credits: John McRae
