It was an absolute pleasure to attend the opening night of The Grinning Man at the Alex Theatre in St. Kilda, directed by Miranda Middleton, produced by Aleksander Vass OAM and Ashley Taylor Tickell, presented by Vass Productions and Salty Theatre. It was especially thrilling that this was the musical’s first production worldwide since achieving cult status on the West End in London. The musical was originally created by Carl Grose (Robin Hood), Tim Phillips (Bad Sisters), Marc Teitler (Game of Thrones) and Tom Morris (War Horse) and is a tragicomical based on Victor Hugo’s 1869 novel, The Man Who Laughs. It is a splendidly irreverent, beautifully dark, poignant and sweet love story complemented by wonderful production values and a stellar cast. A sublime and macabre fairytale that will have you laughing, gasping and sighing; ultimately leaving you teary-eyed yet hope-filled.

The vocals across this entire cast are utterly superb. They are so impressive that there is no compartmentalising between ‘leads’ and ‘ensemble’ roles, such is the strength of the company. The calibre of acting is also impressive, with immense prowess allowing every character to shine. Victor Hugo is one of my favourite writers, and it was a joy to see this story brought to life so eloquently.

The whole cast were phenomenal, with shoutouts to the wonderful Maxwell Simon as Grinpayne, who was utterly mesmerising alongside Luisa Scrofani as Dea. Both possessed the dichotomy of strength and vulnerability which made them so affable, as well as the physicality of their performances (Simon with bandages over this mouth and Scrofani playing a character without sight) – their pain and conditions so believable – heightening their performances. Lilly Cascun plays Young Dea who is in fact a blind musician and singer, and she was so captivating and wonderful. Seeing the cast and crew look out for Lilly to ensure she felt safe, knew her surroundings and was keenly aware of every beat of the musical was brilliant, showcasing their special bond.

Jennifer Vuletic was outstanding as Barkilphedro, her fluidity and master characterisation in all forms (voice, facial expression, physical movement) of this cynically comedic joker whose dark secret makes him rotten to his core, was nothing short of brilliant. Dom Hennequin was impressive as Ursus, the widow who takes in Grinpayne and Dea; his sorrow and regret seeping from his pores, his beautiful vocals tinged by the melancholy of his past actions.

The comedic relief came in the form of royal siblings Melanie Bird, Stephanie Astrid Young and Anthony Craig. Their timing was impeccable and their fearlessness as they embodied these characters was a joy to view, albeit cringe-worthy and naughty as their pursuits were. Special mention to Cameron Bajraktarevic-Hayward who plays Mojo (the puppeteered dog and protector of Dea).

The soaring soundtrack was brilliantly undertaken by David Youings (aka Hans) as Musical Director and emotive choreography by Freya List as Movement Director.

The nod to German Expressionism which this adaptation of the musical adopted really added to the production values and brought the audience deep into the world of Trafalgar Square and the shadows of carnival life, with thanks to Lighting Director Aaron Murray. The Set & Costume Designer, Sophie Woodward, created a fanciful and tangible world both in the colourful palace and dungy streets of London.

A truly remarkable play and one that I highly recommend! Bravo to all involved, and thank you to Fuller PR for a wonderful Opening Night event.

To grab your tickets to The Grinning Man, click here.