The Deb Review

24.05.2022

The Deb, a joyous, comedic musical conceived by Hannah Reilly, winner of the 2019 ATYP Rebel Wilson Comedy Commission, brings a strong start to ATYP’s professional season in the new Rebel Theatre, made possible through Rebel Wilson’s $1 million donation and the generosity of other donors.

As soon as the lights dim, we are transported to Dunburn – a struggling, drought-stricken town in rural Australia, where we meet social outcast Taylah (played by instantly loveable Katelin Koprivec) preparing to make her debut at the Debutante (Deb) ball. For her, the Deb is a chance to feel beautiful and be someone who “fits in, not get pushed aside or ignored.”

Taylah’s dreams are rocked when her feminist city cousin Maeve arrives (strongly performed by Charlotte MacInnes). Maeve is shocked by the unprogressive and ‘hetero-normative’ nature of the town, of which the Deb is an embodiment. However, Maeve soon finds a way to use the ball for her own purpose. Secondary storylines cement the importance of the ball for the community, with the town’s mayor (Jay Laga’aia) using it as an opportunity to gain much-needed drought funding from the PM and help his crush Shell (Tara Morice) who owns the local dress shop.

With the stakes clearly set, what follows is a colourful and energetic, humorous and heartfelt show with extraordinary musical compositions (by Megan Washington) allowing both exuberant and impressive dance numbers (choreographed by Sally Dashwood) as well as more expressive and emotive pieces which had the audience bopping along to the music, perching forwards in pivotal moments, laughing and gasping in shock throughout the show. Hannah Reilly and Fraser Corfield’s direction intersects with the music, bringing powerful insight into each character’s vulnerabilities and inner world. Featuring talent from emerging young performers and seasoned professionals, the ensemble, quite literally, hit every note and beat.

Behind all this are some important themes giving a voice to the contemporary struggles of young people. It’s no easy feat finding your footing and owning who you are in the face of bullying and parental pressures, let alone climate change and long-held traditions. The glitz and glamour of the Deb ball (costumes by Mason Browne) are juxtaposed with the weathered wood set (designed by Emma White), bringing a reminder of the important role young people play in the future of the town.

The Deb had me humming and skipping as I left the theatre, but as I looked around at the beautiful harbour views, so different to Dunburn, I couldn’t help but spare a thought for struggling country towns.

4.5 Stars

Julia, 25 [she/her]

ATYP’s production of The Deb plays until 4 June at the Rebel Theatre. Book your tickets here.