Ordinary Days has long been regarded as one of those small-scale musicals that carries a surprisingly large emotional weight, and Clovelly Fox’s production affirms just how effective Adam Gwon’s work can be in the right hands. With direction by Tyran Parke and an ensemble that leans into the show’s quiet humanity rather than overstatement, this staging offers a measured, thoughtful take on a piece that balances humour with poignancy.
The musical follows four young New Yorkers whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways. Warren is an ambitious artist striving to make his mark while caring for his mentor's cat after he is arrested. Deb, a graduate student from the middle of nowhere, navigates the city in search of opportunities her upbringing denied her. Meanwhile, Jason and his girlfriend Claire face the challenges of moving in together with the difficulty of letting go of the past.
Joel Granger and Melanie Bird, as Warren and Deb, provide the show’s vivacious counterpoint. Granger’s wide-eyed sincerity is evident not only in his characterisation but also in his open, unaffected singing, which adds a sweetness to Warren’s hyper-positivity. Bird’s sharp comic instincts are matched by her crisp, lithe vocals, cutting across the bustle of her character’s chaos. Their natural rhythm brings playfulness and heart to their story, allowing for the hopeful undercurrent of Gwon’s score shines through.
Guided by Parke’s steady and insightful direction, the production strikes a careful balance between intimacy and theatricality. He enables moments of levity and reflection to land with equal impact, and gives the performers room to shine without ever losing sight of the narrative’s simplicity. Vicky Jacobs’ musical direction ensures the score breathes with the actors, supporting the emotional arc of scenes with clarity and sensitivity.
Louisa Fitzgerald’s costumes are a highlight, brilliantly evoking the early 2000s and grounding each character. Her attention to detail makes these visuals come alive and be faithful to the characters. Warren’s brightly coloured jacket and cardigans convey his light-hearted, upbeat energy, while Jason’s tailored shirts and jackets emphasise his understated confidence and gentle ‘manliness’. Deb’s wardrobe subtly evolves over the course of the show, representing her personal growth and increasing self-awareness.
27 years since its world premiere, Ordinary Days still remains a joy to watch. It doesn’t need spectacle to impress us because the appeal lies in the cast, the story, and the little details that bring authenticity to every interaction. By the final number, you’re left smiling, moved, and appreciating the perfectly observed moments that make this show so affecting.
Show Details
Venue: fortyfive downstairs, 45 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
Season: until 31 Aug | Mon 6:30pm, Wed - Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm
Duration: 80 minutes
Tickets: $69 Full | $49 Concession
Bookings: fortyfive downstairs
Image credit: Ben Fon
No comments:
Post a Comment