Review: Evita, George Watson's College

Published on Tuesday 15 June 2010 09:44

Evita **** George Watson's College

EVA Duarte de Pern – Argentina's first female vice-president. To some she was the social-climbing prostitute behind the nation's fascist regime. To others she was an icon of virtue; a political activist who won over the hearts of her adoring public.

If Andrew Lloyd Webber is to be believed, then there's room for both accounts.

This longstanding debate provides the premise of one of Webber's most celebrated musicals – the rock-opera Evita. Set in the political turbulent Argentina of the 1940s, the show tells the story of Eva's ascent from a lowly Lolita, to a radio star, actress and finally first lady.

This college production hoped to revitalise and bring some much-needed vigour to the classic tale, and for an amateur rendition it was highly sophisticated and slick.

The costumes were painstakingly accurate and the minimal set allowed for movement, while multimedia was used effectively as a device to accentuate the development of Eva's status into that of an icon.

In the pivotal role, Alana Armstrong gave a commanding performance as Eva. Her voice was powerful but showed restraint when necessary, never over-reaching the mark. On the musical's infamous number, Don't Cry for Me Argentina, she fully showed off her brilliant register, singing with conviction and emotion.

Arguably on par with her was Chris MacFarlane, who plays the ominous narrator – Ch. MacFarlane captures the cynicism and snide humour of the character effortlessly, delivering numbers Goodnight and Thank You and Oh What a Circus with bite. His mannerisms and natural charisma almost stole the spotlight from Armstrong at times.

In addition, Gaby Votta as the Mistress and Daniel Williamson as Person put in brilliant performances retrospectively.

With its high production values, great acting and memorable songs, this ambitious show is a real testament to the talent of the school's young troupe. Although it is unlikely to provide new light on the sinner-saint dispute – it succeeds where other productions have not in successfully bringing the myth, the legend of Evita to life.

Run ends Friday.