The world premiere of Tivoli Lovely, Eddie Perfect’s latest creation, was held at the Heath Ledger Theatre last night; a dazzling nod to Australia’s theatrical golden age.
This new work has everything one looks for in a musical: immersive storytelling, unlikely friendships…and murder. Directed by Dean Bryant and performed by WAAPA Musical Theatre students, the show blends past and present worlds in a bold, fantastical reimagining of the 1950s Tivoli circuit.
The story follows the rise of young Kitty (Stephanie Graham), a showgirl swept into the sequinned world of the Tivoli circuit, and the adventures of eccentric dance troupe The Eleven Kevins.
When one Kevin meets an untimely end in a tragic accident, troupe leader, Daddy Kevin Watkins (Sebastien Cruse), must find a replacement to preserve the act, so that it may remain the rhyming Eleven Kevins.
Told by 85-year-old Kitty to troubled teenager Charlotte, the tale unfolds as a whimsical tribute to the Tivoli circuit on tour, before the rise of television.
Charlotte (Zoe Davidson-Wall) and Kitty (Caroline McKenzie) become unlikely lifelines for one another, their on-stage chemistry creating an honest portrayal of a tender, intergenerational bond. As they navigate the gilded chaos of stage fights, tap routines, and a sheep-shearing spectacle, their friendship anchors the show’s emotional core amid the theatrical mayhem.
Performed by a 40-person ensemble, the students deliver nothing short of a professional show. Each graduate has their moment to shine; the story is brimming with a range of larger-than-life characters.
The physicality of the actors is exceptional. Hannah Chesser’s ever-smiling Evelyn and Olivia Chatto’s scheming manager, Harriet, among many others, garnered laughter from audience members for their gestures and mannerisms alone.
Supported by a twenty-six-piece band, conducted by the spirited Zara Stanton, the musical score delivers complexity, emotional depth and is well-tuned to the showgirl theme.
The synchronicity between Dann Barber’s set and costume design and the acting did not go unnoticed. Together, they created a seamless theatrical experience. Various set and prop pieces, including puppets and bayonets, are intelligently choreographed by Kelley Abbey into the performance to enhance the storytelling.
The tap dancing is integrated into the score, becoming a rhythmic visual instrument that showcases the students’ impressive dance skills.
The set design merges a bleak retirement home apartment with the dazzling stage of The Eleven Kevins, fusing past and present to create visually pleasing and layered storytelling.
Kitty’s journey unfolds as she steps into her memories on stage, sharing the spotlight with her younger self and former co-stars. This creates a nostalgic portrayal of a personal story.
The cast’s Australian accents, something rarely spotlighted on stage, are perfect across the board, adding to the authenticity of the show. Special mention to Anabel Jamieson, who delivers a regal Queen’s English accent in her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II. Also to Campbell Richardson’s delightful Kiwi accent as Kiwi Kevin.
A personal highlight of mine was the recurring motif of the Arnott’s biscuit, an Australian staple. From the Iced VoVo to the Monte Carlo, the Arnott’s biscuit appears at key moments, cleverly reflecting the personalities of various characters. Charlotte, for instance, is likened to a Royals: a hard, but crumbly exterior with a soft interior.
The musical also delivers sharp commentary on the Australian cultural climate of the 1950s and today. Generational contrasts are often delivered through witty dialogue, like Kitty’s dry observation: ‘We didn’t believe in trauma back then.’
The production stands as an example of how song and dance can enhance the emotional resonance of a story, whilst celebrating the power and positive reception of distinctly Australian narratives. Judging by the audience’s response, it is clear there is a desire for more local stories like this on stage.
Tivoli Lovely proves how memory and storytelling can immortalise people, well beyond their time. This is a must-see Australian original. Chookas for the rest of the season, WAAPA and crew!
Tivoli Lovely runs from 14 November 2025 at the Heath Ledger Centre, State Theatre Centre of WA. 174 – 176 William Street Perth WA 6000.
Tickets are available here.
Website: https://www.waapa.ecu.edu.au/performances-and-events/performances/2025/tivoli-lovely
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/waapa.ecu/
Photo credits: Stephen Heath Photography
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3 responses to “Review: Tivoli Lovely Sees WAAPA Shine In New Eddie Perfect Musical”
Didn’t see the show as i am in Scotland.The review tells me that the show was excellent , and anything with Campbell Richardson in it , just has to be good.
Well said. I’d book tickets to see anything Campbell was in too. Will be cheering him on as his career takes flight 👌
It was a fantastic experience. Very authentic. Well, written, and superbly performed. Something for Australians to feel proud about. I hope it travels the country.