In a theatrical gamble that could only be described as audacious, the legendary racehorse Phar Lap has been resurrected in the most unlikely of forms - as the centrepiece of an electro-swing musical currently captivating audiences at Sydney's intimate Hayes Theatre.
A Spectacle of Sound and Vision
The production immediately announces its unconventional approach through Max Lambert's electrifying score, which seamlessly blends 1920s jazz aesthetics with thumping contemporary beats. This musical fusion creates an infectious energy that pulses through the venue, making resistance to toe-tapping virtually impossible.
Visually, the show is nothing short of spectacular. Isabel Hudson's clever set design transforms the compact Hayes stage into multiple racing worlds, while the costume department delivers one show-stopping number after another. The choreography, particularly during the larger ensemble pieces, demonstrates breathtaking precision and vitality.
Stellar Performances Anchor the Spectacle
The cast rises magnificently to the challenge of this unconventional material. Laura Murphy brings surprising depth and vulnerability to the humanised portrayal of the champion racehorse, while supporting players shine in multiple roles. Standout musical numbers showcase both powerful solo vocals and exquisite harmonies that fill the intimate space.
Where Ambition Outpaces Narrative
Despite its many triumphs, the production occasionally struggles under the weight of its own ambition. The book attempts to cover substantial ground - from Phar Lap's legendary career to the mysterious circumstances surrounding his death - resulting in some narrative compression that leaves certain plot developments feeling rushed.
The electro-swing concept, while fresh and exciting, doesn't always seamlessly serve the storytelling. Some transitions between emotional depth and high-energy musical numbers feel abrupt, leaving audiences momentarily disconnected from the central narrative.
A Theatrical Experience Unlike Any Other
What the production may lack in narrative cohesion, it more than compensates for with pure theatrical bravado. The creative team has embraced risk wholeheartedly, delivering a show that feels genuinely innovative in a landscape often dominated by safe choices.
Particularly effective are the racing sequences, which use inventive staging and lighting to create genuine excitement and tension. These moments demonstrate the production at its best - creatively solving problems and delivering genuine spectacle within the constraints of a smaller venue.
Final Verdict: A Winning Bet for Adventurous Theatregoers
While 'Phar Lap: The Electro-Swing Musical' may not cross the finish line as a perfectly polished production, its energy, creativity, and sheer audacity make it essential viewing for those seeking something genuinely different in contemporary musical theatre. It represents the kind of bold, original thinking that keeps the art form vital and exciting.
The show continues at Hayes Theatre, offering audiences a rare opportunity to witness theatrical innovation in an intimate setting. For those willing to embrace its unconventional approach, it delivers an unforgettable night at the theatre that will have you humming its tunes long after the final curtain.
