Moana Jr. (Hampton Hill Red Cast)

June 30, 2024

29th June – 1st July

Moana Jr. tells the story of an adventurous teenager who sets out on a daring mission to save her people. During her journey, Moana meets the once-mighty demigod Maui, who guides her in her quest to become a master way-finder. Together they sail across the open ocean in an action-packed voyage, encountering enormous monsters and impossible odds. Along the way, Moana fulfils the ancient quest of her ancestors and discovers the one thing she always sought: her own identity. This inspiring Polynesian adventure presented a wonderful challenge for the students at Dramacube with tribal dancing, a different language and the task of transporting us to the islands of the South Pacific, all of which they did with aplomb.

“Dramacube can be proud of taking on such a challenging project and delivering it with high production values and such a sense of fun and camaraderie among their troupe”

The first wow moment came when the front tabs opened to reveal a beautifully presented stage awash with colour, texture and palm trees, designed by Hannah Calarco. The set was complemented by equally colourful costumes with children appropriately clad in Polynisian attire, created by Natasha Boyle and an excellent array of props from Zoe Jones which really added to the atmosphere of the piece.

The show was visually stunning from start to finish. An impressive ensemble cast creating the ocean with flowing sheets of shiny material which were effectively utilised throughout. The use of UV lighting was a magical touch and credit must go to lighting designer George Sellis for his contribution to this striking set.

This particular performance was given by Dramacube’s Hampton Hill Red cast which saw a number of leading roles sensibly split between different actors, seamlessly switching at appropriate moments throughout the show. This was particularly effective when demonstrating Maui’s magical powers where both actors combined to show his shape shifting capabilities, becoming a range of animals including an eagle and a shark. Both Remi Gilbert and Oliver Musgrave who played this role did so with commitment, flare and great comic timing.

Moana was another role which was split between two actors. Anastajza Stawicka lit up the stage with her beautiful singing voice moving the audience with her rendition of the popular ’How Far I’ll Go’. Rosie Longstaff as the second Moana gave an excellent performance, conveying our heroine’s courage, determination and bravery, subtly mixed with moments of vulnerability. We were with her all the way and celebrated her success when she accomplished her mission. A mention must also go to Grace O’Hara who played ‘the village crazy lady’ Gramma Tala with whit and maturity.

Youth productions can vary in quality but most importantly, they offer huge benefits to students. It was abundantly clear that the young actors on stage were having a wonderful time and their very supportive audience, largely made up of family and friends, were having just as much fun watching. Dramacube can be proud of taking on such a challenging project and delivering it with high production values and such a sense of fun and camaraderie among their troupe.