"NEVERMORE" - One seriously twisted musical.

PLAYLOVERS are known far and wide for delivering some of the best community musical theatre shows that Perth has seen and I am pleased to say that they have done it yet again with their current offering.

Music by Matt Conner, lyrics adapted from Poe's own writings and the book by Grace Barnes, "Nevermore" is a musical journey through the life and mind of the poet and novelist Edgar Allen Poe.

Director Jenny M. (for "macabre"?) Ferguson, previously known for her direction of "Maul of The Dead" (2011) and "Mindgames" (2012), has brought yet another Australian Premiere to Perth and added her own special brand of genius to this powerfully dark musical.

From the moment you walk into the eerily lit (Design by John Woolrych, Operation by Jamie Graham) auditorium, you are aware that this is going to be a show that will linger in your mind for some time to come.

The casts entry to the stage (costumed superbly in stylised "Steam Punk" style by Terry McAuley and ably assisted by David Young) past the backdrop of panels and furniture that are as violent as they are wonderful (Set design by Jenny with art work and decorations by herself, Jezzelle Bennett & Madeleine Brown. Built by Noel Herbert, David Hardie, David Young & Wally Fry) teases ones imagination even further into the depths of Poe's tormented mind. 

Jenny has assembled an exceptional cast comprising some of Perth's most talented musical theatre vocalists.

Paul Spencer "Lead Edgar", Gemma Sharpe "Mother", Monica Brierley-Hay "Virginia", Tyla De Brett "Elmira", Tate Bennett "Young Edgar", Vivienne Glance "Muddy", Donna-Maree Gavin "Whore" and Caleb Robinson-Cook as "Dark Edgar" this amazing ensemble of voices will skillfully hold you transfixed through all the twists and turns of the tales of Edgar Allan Poe's tortured existence.

Duplicating the onstage talent in the "Orchestra Pit" are the Musical Ensemble led on piano by the productions Musical Director & Vocal Coach Joshua Webb. This exceptional group of musicians are as much a part of the show as the actors, providing the driving emotion behind the performance.

 From the moment the first chord is struck to the final bow, the audience I shared the experience with last night were completely captured by the magic of this outstanding production.

 There is no doubt in my mind that this is the best musical production to be shown in Perth this year. Forget "Jersey Boys" if you really want to have your socks rocked - come and see this show.

From the pen of Edgar himself - "Beauty of whatever kind, in it's supreme development, invariably excites the soul; to tears"

Amen to that Mr. Poe.... Amen to that!

Details of the season performance dates and bookings information can be found on the Playlovers website:  http://playlovers.org.au/