Hot Mikado

It was a standing ovation at the end of the play. Moved by the dedication, perseverance and the obvious talent displayed, the thunderous applause of admiration to more than 50 talented souls bowed before us was an instanteneous respond. This finale night performance at The Atheneaum Theatre was truly a special moment both for the cast and the audience.


Seated in the front row in the Dress Circle, I was amongst those beaming with pride and joy, as I watched Adam on the stage acting his role in the two hours long musical play of the HOT MIKADO, first produced a century ago by Frankie Hewitt at Ford's Theatre, Washington DC and authored by WS Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan. THE MIKADO as it was originally titled, is a Japanese love story set in the eighteen century. The change in name was later introduced when jazz and swing music found its way into the play to create a more upbeat and lively musical show as it is staged today.

Don in a white shirt with grey trouses and secured braces, a hat and a 'tap shoe', Adam was one of the 'Gentlemen of Japan'. Looking savvy and sleek and with the rest of the lads, Adam was in his elements and enjoying himself. I thought he stood up amongst the cast and was prominently visible at all times.. or so I felt being the mum!  Alas, am pretty sure all the other mums in the audience would have had the same notion anyway.

Albeit their youth, the skills and talents within the cast are comparable to those professional in the art scene and St Michael Grammar over the years to my opinion has produced some of the best musical play in Melbourne. This year's production director, Mr Simon Parris seated two chairs next to me at time could be seen mouthing scripts uttered by his students on stage, and Ms Calia, the musical director at the Stall area beneath us was singing along whilst conducting the school band. A picture of passionate tutors.

Soon as the curtain came down, we made way down to the lobby area joined by the many families and friends awaiting for the appearance of our loved one. Some are seen with bouquets while others like us were all ready with our arms and lips for those big hugs and kisses... and camera of course to capture those moments. I greeted some mums whom during the pre production had volunteered with sewing costumes. And how amused we were to find our name mentioned in the souvenir program, how sweet.



I must admit my earlier outing to the play did not exude the immenssed feeling I experienced tonight. The front row seating, audience responses, the finale performance of the play could have contributed to profound feeling I had, but most of all I am absolutely sure the joy of seeing my Adam putting his best foot forward each night on public stage has made this outing such a special one for us.

p/s To Dada, away in KL, sorry you had to miss the show . To Mee, who celebrated her 72nd birthday on this night, Adam had those moves as a 'birthday gifts' and to family and friends who attended the show, thank you for your morale support... and do enjoy the photos.