Tell Me on a Sunday – REVIEW
Image: Erin Clare in TELL ME ON A SUNDAY at Hayes Theatre. credit: John McRae
By JASMINE SIMMONS
At the intimate Hayes Theatre Co in Potts Point, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical masterpiece is brought to life. Tell Me on a Sunday, with lyrics by Don Black, is a stand-out one-woman show that makes the small space feel extraordinarily large.
The stunning and amazingly talented Erin Clare, who previously starred in 9 to 5, We Will Rock You, and Heathers, takes on the role of The Girl and guides the audience through a journey of self discovery. The young English girl moves to New York and navigates her way through a series of relationships and all the anxieties and heartbreak that come with these experiences.
After being with different partners and circling back to the same, painful situations, she ponders over the true meaning of love and the validation she is desperately craving.
Erin Clare radiates confidence and passion in all the right moments on stage, forming a deep connection with her character. The funky jazz orchestra, with some musicians playing multiple instruments interchangeably, perfectly compliment Clare’s stage presence. The upbeat tempo of various instrumental segments sees audiences thoroughly engaging with the story and following along with The Girl’s on-the-go lifestyle.
Clare truly gives it her all in this production to showcase a diverse range of everyday human emotions. From fierce, sassy and sensual, to frustrated and disappointed, Clare’s over-the-top yet seemingly natural performance illustrates The Girl’s internal and complex feelings.
Even during reflective musical numbers, such as the title track, Clare remains witty and implements flawless comedic timing. Her movement, body language, gestures, and hilarious facial expressions see the audience upholding laughter and giggles in each scene.
The most wow-factor element of this Tell Me on a Sunday production is Clare’s outstanding singing ability. The strength of her vocals remains consistent throughout the production and the star quality is evident. Clare hits every single note and looks amazing doing it.
Michelle Guthrie, in collaboration with Hayes Theatre Co, has done a brilliant job in making the world of Andrew Lloyd Webber shine.
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