We are very very proud of everyone involved with our production of Moana Jnr which has earned us thiswonderful review from Douglas J Clark, regional rep from NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Society).
Title of Show: Disney Moana Jr.
Society: Haddo Musical Theatre School
Venue/City/Town: Haddo Hall, Tarves
Date of visit: 22 June 2024
Type of Production: Musical
Reviewed by: Douglas J Clark Regional Rep
Director: Graham Wilson
Assistant Director: Amelia Osbourne
Choreographer: Abi Leslie
38 young people between the aged of 8 and 12 took to the stage to guide us through the enchanting tale of
Moana’s journey through the Polynesian Islands to face Te Ka, the demon of earth and fire, and thus safeguard
her home island of Motuni from his wrath – and this they did with great enthusiasm. Sophia Munro made an
excellent Moana with an extremely strong singing voice, as shown in her solos “How Far I’ll Go” and “Know
Who You Are”, and good acting skills.
Zach Twigger was impressive as the shapeshifter and demigod Maui with good stage presence, a strong singing
voice and good comic timing making a good pairing with Moana. Mylo Walker as the Chief, Moana’s father had
a strong voice – both speaking and singing – and good acting ability. Rebecca Paul as Gramma Talla too
showed strong acting ability in her portrayal of Moana’s elderly mentor. Ruby Hay and Lucas Kirkham were
delightful as Moana’s friends Pua and cheeky-chappy Hei Hei. Evelynne Oakley as giant, egotistical crab
Tamatoa played the part with relish, assisted by Roman Peter as her Left Claw and Eidh McGrath as her Right
Claw, in their rendition of “Shiny”. Strong support was given by Lily Munro (Sina, Moana’s mother), Emma
Cordiner (Young Moana), Leon Duncan(Te-Kai), Jessica Duncan (Te-Fiti) and Olivia Stewart, Charlotte Cordiner
and Tia McLoughlin(Chief Ancestors).
The staging was kept very simple – 3 cubes in the centre of the stage becoming plinths for the ancestors,
Moana’s canoe and the islands – allowing plenty of room for movement during the ensemble numbers with a
moving video wall to show the travel across the Pacific Seas. The ensemble singing and movement – from the
opening “In The Beginning” to the closing “We Know The Way” was strong. Many of the cast were on stage for
the first time and Graham and his team of young helpers are to be congratulated on this Haddo Musical
Theatre Schools first production which was greatly appreciated by the full house audience.
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