Roleystone Theatre has come out all guns blazing for its first major production in 2025, tackling a Tony Award-winning musical from one of Broadway’s all-time greats, Stephen Sondheim.
‘Assassins’, often regarded as Sondheim’s hidden gem, transcends the boundaries of traditional musical theatre.
While Sondheim is celebrated for classics like ‘Into the Woods’ and ‘Sweeney Todd’, Assassins stands out as a uniquely compelling exploration of the American experience.
The show delves into the lives of real historical figures—people who had genuine hopes and dreams but, feeling failed by the promises of the American Dream, turned to desperate acts in an effort to leave their mark on history.
As composer Stephen Sondheim wrote in the show: “Someone tell the story, someone sing the song. Every now and then the country goes a little wrong”.
These words, combined with the show’s powerful narrative, serve as a stark reminder that those who don’t learn from history are doomed to repeat it.
Fresh off the back of winning Best Director and Best Play at the 2024 Finley Awards, Kelmscott local Chris Alvaro has taken on the whacking great task of directing Assassins.
“The experience of tackling this complex musical has been mammoth, but the incredible talent within this cast and creative team has made it possible and worth it,” he said.
“Some of Perth’s best are bringing this production to life, showcasing outstanding local talent like Sonja Reynolds, Lilly-Anne Burns, Paul Treasure and Peter ‘Pear’ Carr.
“This is proven in the performances we’re seeing—chills, fits of laughter, and genuine show-stopping moments that will stay with you long after the curtain falls.”
He said the time was ripe for a reproduction of Assassins, in light of the current political climate in the US.
“In a time of political and social reflection, Assassins is more relevant than ever, proving Sondheim’s genius in creating works that entertain, provoke, and endure,” he said.
“Despite its thought-provoking themes, the show doesn’t take itself too seriously however.
“The sharp wit and humour balance the darker elements making it heartfelt, thought-provoking and laugh-out-loud funny.
“This production demonstrates that theatre is not just about entertainment but about storytelling that challenges us to evaluate ourselves and the world we live in.”
Assassins plays from February 28 to March 15 at the Roleystone Theatre.
Tickets can be purchased online at https://events.humanitix.com/assassins
