The Wedding Singer Rehearsals Have Started

Griffith’s cast of The Wedding Singer has commenced rehearsing.

So far, they have been learning the songs and dances that will thrill audiences in September.

Production Director, Katherine Innes said the rehearsals had started really strongly.

“We’ve got a really enthusiastic cast, and a geat production team, and everyone is gelling together really quickly,” Ms Innes said.

“We’ve got some high energy dance numbers, and some gorgeous harmonies already coming together.

“We’re having fun.”

Well-known actor, director and drama educator, Romina Tappi, who recently returned to Griffith from working in Europe, is the production’s Assistant Director and Vocal Coach.

“It’s going fabulously, lots of fun, lots of high energy, and I’m really impressed by all the local talent her,” Ms Tappie said.

Set in 1985, The Wedding Singer tells the story of wannabe rock star Robbie Hart who just happens to be the life of the party and New Jersey’s favourite wedding singer.

That is until his own fiance jilts him at the altar, breaking his heart and leaving him seeing weddings in a whole new light; a somewhat dimmer light.

When waitress Julia wins his affection, things seem to brighten up for Robbie.

Of course, Julia is about to be married to a Wall Street shark, complete with a rich suit, snooty attitude and money to burn.

If he wants to win the girl in the end, Robbie needs to pull of the performance of the decade.

Griffith’s own Jesse Aviu plays Robbie opposite Lara Calabria as Julie. Other leading roles will be brought to life by David Baxter, James Walsh, Gustavo Magalhaes Tercete, Valerie O’Meara, Helania Beltrame and Markala Johnstone, who are inturn supported by a large cast of talented locals excited to be part of such a great production.

Jesse Aviu said while he had performed in a musical once before, he had been an extra.

“I’ve never actually been a lead before,” Mr Aviu said.

“It’s absolutely fantastic at the moment.

“It’s going really well. “Everyone is putting in a lot of effort and it’s all working out pretty cool so far.”

Valerie O’Meara plays Robbie’s grandmother, Rosie.

“I’ve been an extra before, but Rosie, while it’s a fairly small role, is my biggest role to date and I’m really excited about it,” Ms O’Meara said.

“She’s sassy, she’s a little bit naughty, she’s fun, but is caring and loving a the same time.”

James Walsh performs in the production and has been involved in local community theatre for some time, most recently as Director of GRAPA’s The Crucible.

“This is a great change of pace to be doing what’s essential a romantic comedy,” Mr Walsh said.

“It’s got great energy and is a lot of fun.”

Production Director, Innes said that while rehearsals had already kicked off, they would welcome some extra ensemble members, particularly men.

“They may even get to propose to someone on stage,” Ms Innes said.

Contact the Theatre if you are interested in participating and keep an eye out for when the tickets go on sale later in the year.

The performance will run from Wednesday, September 13 to Saturday, September 23, including two matinee performances.

• Topics:

• Performing Arts