Musical theatre / My Brilliant Career, directed by Anne-Louise Sarks. At the Canberra Theatre, until March 15. Reviewed by LEN POWER.

Miles Franklin’s much-loved 1901 book, My Brilliant Career, became a deserved success as a movie in 1979.

Could lightning strike twice with this new musical staging of the story? The answer is a resounding Yes!

The story focuses on Sybylla Melvin, in rural Australia in the late 19^th century whose aspiration to become a writer is at odds with society’s expectations of a woman at that time.

The cast of 10 create a series of vivid country characters and, when they’re not acting, they’re the musicians as well! With the band onstage throughout and part of the action, it’s like being at a bush concert with a story. Marg Horwell’s clever set design suggests the time and locations and her costume design adds period colour to the actors’ characterisations.

Outstanding in the Melbourne Theatre Company cast is Kala Gare in the central role of Sybylla. From the beginning, Gare draws the audience in with her energetic, brash, funny and deeply sensitive performance as this young woman. She sings superbly and dances like a whirlwind.

The other cast members play multiple roles. There is particularly fine work by Cameron Bajraktarevic-Hayward as Frank, the man who wants to marry Sybylla, Drew Livingstone as Father and Jay-Jay, Ana Mitsikas as Grannie and Christina O’Neill as Mother and Helen. Melanie Bird, Lincoln Elliott, Raj Labade, Victoria Falconer and Jarrad Payne also give vivid characterisations.

Mathew Frank, music, and Dean Bryant, lyrics, have produced a rousing score that blends contemporary pop, bush ballad and raucous pub rock. There are several memorable songs including, This Piano, Turn Away From The Mirror, I Will Wait With You and Someone Like Me. The whole cast play and sing this appealing musical score very well.

Expertly directed by Anne-Louise Sarks, this is a magical show that offers everything that a good musical should. The music lifts it to another level emotionally, while the cast offer striking performances in this strong, well-presented story with an atmospheric setting.