The Boy From Oz
A Spectacular Journey Through Peter Allen’s Life and Music
Reviewed by Brendan Daynes
The Boy From Oz, staged at The National Theatre by Theatrical, is a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Peter Allen. It traces his extraordinary journey from the small outback town of Tenterfield, Australia, to international stardom. Directed and choreographed by Rhylee Nowell, this production celebrates Allen’s musical legacy while delving into the personal triumphs and tribulations that shaped his life. Audiences are taken on a poignant journey through Allen’s remarkable career and personal milestones, witnessing his transformation from humble beginnings to global fame.
In the lead role of Peter Allen, Matthew Hadgraft delivers a commendable performance that captures Allen’s infectious charisma and musical talent. From his early days as a child prodigy impersonating Al Jolson to his meteoric rise as a pop star and beyond, Hadgraft navigates Allen’s life story with sensitivity and authenticity. His ability to engage the audience, coupled with his adept piano playing and soulful vocals, anchors the production with a compelling narrative arc.
Supporting Hadgraft are Sarah Monteaux as Liza Minnelli and Saskia Penn as Judy Garland, whose portrayals bring depth and poignancy to Allen’s personal and professional relationships. Monteaux embodies Minnelli’s larger-than-life presence and complex bond with Allen, infusing her performance with the quirky yet endearing qualities that made Minnelli a beloved figure. Her ability to capture Minnelli’s unique charm and dynamic personality adds a layer of authenticity, making their on-stage interactions compelling and heartfelt.
Penn, on the other hand, captures Judy Garland’s enduring influence on Allen’s career and personal life with remarkable precision. Her portrayal embodies Garland’s distinctive mannerisms, from her signature vocal inflections to her expressive gestures. Penn’s performance goes beyond mere imitation; she brings a genuine sense of Garland’s emotional depth and vulnerability to the stage. This nuanced interpretation not only honours Garland’s legacy but also highlights the profound impact she had on Allen’s journey. 
The ensemble cast enriches the production with their versatility and commitment. Sylvia Kokkinos, Tara Lichtenstein, and Angelina Sevastopoulos shine as the Trio, while Maureen Andrew delivers a heartfelt performance as Marion Woolnough. Jeremy Grigg brings depth to the role of Chris Bell, and Nathan Fernandez impresses as Dee Anthony/Wally Bell. Leighton Darwin portrays Greg Connell with heartfelt charisma, Mark Eather gives a compelling performance as Dick Woolnough, and Reuben Koroncyk or Ethan Lockhart capture the innocence and energy of Young Peter. Each member of the ensemble, from dancers to supporting actors, contributes to the vibrant tapestry of Allen’s world, portraying the highs and lows of his life with nuance and authenticity.
Under the musical direction of Alex Byrne and the musical supervision of Matthew Hadgraft, the story is beautifully interwoven with the rich melodies of Allen’s music, showcasing his versatility as a songwriter and performer. The score ranges from exuberant pop anthems to heartfelt ballads, and the entire cast, complemented by Byrne’s orchestration, deliver these with conviction and passion elevating the emotional resonance of each musical number.
The Boy From Oz is a triumph of storytelling and musicality, celebrating Peter Allen’s musical genius while exploring themes of identity, love, and resilience. This production ensures that each moment—from the euphoric highs of Allen’s career milestones to the poignant lows of personal loss—is portrayed with authenticity and reverence. Matthew Hadgraft’s captivating portrayal of Allen, supported by a talented cast and creative team, invites audiences to connect with Allen’s journey on a deeply personal level and pays homage to Allen’s enduring legacy and cultural impact, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience it.
Tickets for The Boy From Oz at The National Theatre are available from https://theatrical.com.au/boyfromoz/. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this unforgettable theatrical journey through the life and music of Peter Allen.
