By Amy Nancarrow.
Frank Woodley returns to Adelaide in all his slapstick comedy glory in The Composer is Dead.
Teaming up with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, “Inspector” Woodley works his way through the various sections of the band, trying to figure out who murdered the composer of the orchestra’s waltz. He investigate the strings, brass, woodwinds and percussion sections, mixing in his trademark physical, slapstick humour brilliantly in time with the music.
This show is a brilliant way to introduce kids to orchestral music. Most instruments are given the time to shine, even the singular harp and tuba. Woodley cleverly gives each section its own personality, and has both adults and kids alike in stitches. In the end, the murderer is revealed, but it may not be who you expect.
The finale of the show uses 20 audience members as a new section of the orchestra, and although the preparation needed for the skit stalled the show somewhat, it was an inventive way to round out the show. Although some pacing issues at the beginning and end, The Composer is Dead was a smart, funny show that suited both orchestral music and Frank Woodley’s comedic style.
Kryztoff Rating: 4K
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