Magic Mike Live!
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Date Reviewed: 18/03/2021
Review written by Cassie Cheeseman
Touring nationally with dates available in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth
An empowering and sex-positive night out
Famously known for having Channing Tatum (star of the Magic Mike Movies) as a director, Magic Mike Live is a thrilling and fantastical production with a powerful message for women: you don’t need to change - you are enough. It is currently touring nationally, and this author had the opportunity to attend the Sydney show on March 14.
Magic Mike Live loosely tells the story of a waiter named Mike, played by Anthony Bartley, that has been chosen by the powers above to become the next great woman pleaser. But whilst he is enthusiastic to take on the role, he doesn’t have the skills necessary to really woo a woman. And the production emphasises that this wooing should be based on respect and tender compassion which is reflected in the performance through various dance styles, song devotions and poetry.
Through this all we are supported by Amy Ingram (role share with Alexia Brinsley) in her role as the the hilarious and highly relatable host who is fed up with the chauvinistic and grotesque forms of female flattery present in modern society. She doesn’t want a man in a firefighter suit grinding up against her – all she wants is her local barista or a friendly vet in jeans and a t-shirt.
The performances are varied and thrilling whilst being tasteful. At no time is full nudity on show, and on the rare instances where performers coverings are minimal there is no movements that could cause wardrobe malfunctions. In fact much of the show sees the performers only shirtless which reinforces the ideology behind the show that sexy doesn’t come from nudity, it’s a state of being. But nonetheless the show recognises the desires of the audience for an attractive visual show and this is certainly achieved.
The dances are well coordinated and exciting as are the musical performances which occur during the production. A particular highlight is a coupled dance where Anthony Bartley and the stunning Max Francisco perform utilising a floating platform and rain effect to create a truly artistic and seductive moment that will likely become a lingering fantasy for many of the women in the audience.
The music utilised in the performances is a perfect mix of instrumental, obscure artists and contemporary music which is perfect for an audience sing along. Various lighting effects including strobe lighting reflect the performances well and combine with the music to create a multi sensory production. The costumes are simple yet effective at conveying the style of the performers and enhancing the overall feel of the event.
The entire set design, which primarily consists of a tent with indoor seating reminiscent of a high class circus performance, was phenomenal and provides the ultimate backdrop for this seductive event. In addition, the set has been designed to allow table service for drinks and antipasto boards which are a fantastic addition to the production. The set also includes a floating platform, ladders and dancing stages within the audience seating area that ensure performer visibility from all areas of the tent and give the dances variety and flair.
Magic Mike Live is a show that has clearly been deeply considered down to the slightest detail and every element combines to create the ultimate performance making it a must see for the 2021 arts season. Tickets are incredibly affordable starting from only $59 and every seat is a good seat.
Magic Mike Live opens in Melbourne 8 June 2021.