Saturday Night Fever the Musical arrives at Melbourne’s Athenaeum Theatre
The iconic stage show ‘Saturday Night Fever’ has landed at the Athenaeum Theatre, bringing with it a wave of nostalgia and excitement that you won’t want to miss. Produced by Drew Anthony Creative, this electrifying production made its successful debut in Perth in 2024, sweeping the Broadway World Australia awards with accolades for Best Direction, Best Scenic Design, and Best Performer.
This gritty, reimagined version of the beloved 1977 film pays homage to the original while infusing it with fresh energy and creativity. The Bee Gees’ legendary soundtrack, which won four Grammy Awards and has sold over 45 million copies worldwide, provides the perfect backdrop for this exhilarating narrative of ambition, passion, and disco fever.
Leading the Australian cast is the incredibly talented Ethan Churchill, who returns to the role of the enigmatic Tony Manero after dazzling audiences in Perth and clinching the Best Performer award.
His portrayal of Tony the Italian – American from Brooklyn, New York lives with a mundane family a controlling father and his only escape is to dance at the local disco.
Joining him on stage are a stellar line-up of performers, including comedy legend George Kapinaris (known for ‘Acropolis Now’), musical theatre icon Chelsea Plumley (from ‘Hairspray’ and ‘Mary Poppins’), and the dazzling Australian dance star Sophia Katos (‘Strictly Ballroom’).
As I settled into my seat, I was immediately transported back to the world of John Travolta’s Tony Manero. The stage adaptation beautifully revisits iconic scenes from the film, allowing audiences to relive Tony’s journey from a young man seeking validation to a disco king who ultimately finds love and purpose. The choreography is a feast for the eyes, blending contemporary dance with classic disco moves, all set against a backdrop of shimmering disco balls and stunning lighting that creates an immersive experience.
The music? Absolutely sensational! From the moment the first notes of “Stayin’ Alive” hit the air, I felt the urge to leap from my seat and dance along. The infectious beats and soulful melodies are woven seamlessly into the narrative, creating a pulsating rhythm that keeps the energy high throughout the performance.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the original film or discovering the magic of ‘Saturday Night Fever’ for the first time, this show promises an unforgettable night filled with laughter, joy, and plenty of dancing. Get ready to groove, Melbourne, Saturday Night Fever is here to make you feel alive!
Review by Melinda Sullivan
For tickets please visit https://www.ticketmaster.com.au/saturday-night-fever-tickets/artist/844061
