An original work in every regard, Self is an extraordinary display of creativity, celebrating the artistry that can be achieved by the collaboration of local talent.
Self review
Simon Parris
I have appeared in about 40 productions over the past thirty-three years. Favourite roles include Eugene Fodor and Junior in (separate productions of) Crazy for You, Mr Fox in Mack and Mabel, Max in The Sound of Music, Freddy in My Fair Lady, Julio in Paint Your Wagon, Marcellus in The Music Man and Grantaire in Les Miserables.
I have directed several school productions. I choreographed Urinetown and Little Shop of Horrors for St Michael’s Grammar School, then went on to direct Hot Mikado and the Australian premiere of 13 for St Michael’s. I have since gone on to direct/choreograph The Music Man Jr and Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr for St Michael's.
I review music theatre and opera for Theatre People and the Sunday Herald Sun (Melbourne). I served on the Music Theatre Guild of Victoria Committee for five years as Treasurer and I am currently on the Board of The Opera Studio Melbourne.
I am a keen audience member, having seen 58 shows in six weeks in New York this year, as well as 57 shows during 6 weeks in London/Europe earlier this year.
I hope you enjoy reading the news and reviews at Simon Parris: Man in Chair. I would love to hear your thoughts on the shows covered here so please feel free to leave your comments.
Hayes Theatre Co: Assassins review
In a timely and glittering new production, Hayes Theatre Co has attracted an extraordinary cast to present Stephen Sondheim and John Weidman’s pitch black musical, Assassins.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical review [Sydney]
A glittering celebration of twentieth century pop music, the Australian premiere season of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical is blessed with a superb local cast.
Pop-up Globe: As You Like It review
It turns out that Pop-up Globe’s As You Like It is exactly as I like it: funny, loud, brash, musical and packed with heart.
Victorian Opera: Black Rider review
An artistic triumph, Black Rider combines a magically innovative production with an incredibly characterful cast to create a highly memorable evening of adult theatre.
The Australian Ballet School: Showcase 2017 review
Moving from traditional classical dance to innovative modern dance, The Australian Ballet School capably illustrated the breadth and depth of the students’ talents in their highly entertaining Showcase 2017.
The Australian Ballet: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland review
A dazzling diorama of stunning scenery and capricious choreography, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is a delectable delight for children and adults alike.
Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School: Serenade review
Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School’s annual major dance season, a lovingly curated mixed program entitled Serenade, capably demonstrates the depth of talent and the breadth of curriculum at the school.
The Australian Ballet: Symphony in C review #2
A return visit to Symphony in C provided the welcome opportunity to enjoy Resident Guest Artist David Hallberg on stage in Melbourne.
The Bodyguard the Musical review
Watching The Bodyguard the Musical is like meeting a person with infectiously high self-esteem; their self-image is crystal clear and they project unflinching self-confidence.
