After the delightful romp that was Isn’t It Queer, I knew Little Triangle’s next queer theatrical celebration was not to be missed—and A Gay Escapade has exceeded every expectation! Currently playing at The Loading Dock Theatre, Qtopia, this exuberant revue showcases the magic of musical theatre through a deeply queer lens, seamlessly blending iconic numbers with hidden gems from the legendary duo John Kander and Fred Ebb. Once again, Little Triangle has proven that their unique combination of fresh talent, sharp direction, and unapologetic celebration of LGBTQIA+ culture makes them a vital force in Sydney’s indie theatre scene.
From the moment the show opened, the audience was swept up in a whirlwind of spectacular performances. With music direction and accompaniment by Aaron Robuck, the ensemble delivered the soaring anthems and the tender ballads of Kander and Ebb’s catalogue with precision and heartfelt emotion. Numbers from Cabaret and Chicago dazzled, but it was the lesser-known pieces like The Rink’s Colored Lights and Flora the Red Menace’s Sing Happy that truly stood out, giving new life with queer authenticity.
Director and designer Alexander Andrews’ vision is crystal clear throughout this production. His passion for highlighting queer narratives and reexamining traditional theatre shines in every song, every scene, and every spotlighted moment. The show’s concept—queering the works of Kander and Ebb by platforming Sydney’s finest queer performers—felt natural and electric. The energy in A Gay Escapade never waned, thanks to a production design that made the most of The Loading Dock Theatre’s intimate space. The lighting by Paris Bell was simple yet perfectly framed the performances. Robuck’s arrangements and the skilled musicianship behind every number kept the pacing tight, ensuring there was never a dull moment.
The chemistry within the ensemble was palpable, whether they were harmonising together or playfully engaging in choreographed numbers.
Gavin Brown’s I Don’t Remember You was hauntingly touching; with his acting prowess, it’s anyone’s guess why Opera Australia has him relegated to the chorus. Jayden Castle’s tenor soared in pieces like Mister Cellophane, grounding it in newfound vulnerability. Meanwhile, Allegra Wilson and Sebastian Nelson’s renditions of Arthur in the Afternoon offered layers of playfulness, power, and pride.
Clara Harrison’s powerful vocals and Nina Carmen’s stage presence brought emotional depth to their solos, making every moment in the spotlight a treat. The pairing of Juliette Coleman and Izzy Hanly was genius. The authenticity they both brought in portraying the ebbs and flows of the queer relationship resonated through every heart.
Little Triangle has crafted a show that isn’t just a revue but a love letter to queer stories, identities, and resilience. The production’s underlying message was clear: these songs, often born from tales of outsiders and underdogs, are perfect vessels for celebrating our community’s strength and diversity. By the time the ensemble closed with a triumphant Life is a Cabaret, it was impossible not to feel the joyous reverberation of pride, love, and unfiltered theatrical bliss throughout the room.
Little Triangle’s A Gay Escapade is a masterclass in how small-scale, independent theatre can make an outsized impact. This celebration of queer musical theatre is a must-see—breathtaking, affirming, and bursting with talent. If Isn’t It Queer was their breakout, A Gay Escapade solidifies Little Triangle as the jewel of Sydney’s indie musical scene.
– The other Daniel Craig
Daniel Craig is an international performer and has established himself as a trusted theatre specialist on the Sydney Arts Scene. While he understands the technical side of theatre, Dan writes for the everyday theatregoer (unlike some of those more prominent publications). When not in the audience, he loves to travel the world trying new gin. Follow him on all the socials @talldancraig
A Gay Escapade runs for 90 minutes (no interval) and plays at The Loading Dock Theatre, Qtopia Sydney, through 31 October 2024. Tickets are available through Humanitix.
Disclosure: The Plus Ones were guests of Little Triangle.
Image credit: Annabelle Radford
