Company by WAAPA

Charlotte Allen (as Marta) and Josh Condon (as Robert (double cast)) in Company by WAAPA
Photo Credit: Stephen Heath

On a busy Saturday evening in Northbridge, my partner and I headed to the Studio Underground at the State Theatre Centre of WA to watch Company by WAAPA.

Having seen several shows by WAAPA musical theatre students – we knew we were in for a treat.

This time we were there to watch the musical Company by Stephen Sondheim – a classic musical that graced the stages in the 1970’s, then had its hit Broadway revival in 2022, with its themes of relationships, friendships and connections.

And it remains as timely and relevant as it was back in its hey day and perhaps even more so – with the level of mobile phones and technology that pervades our day to day lives – but which can ironically sometimes leave us feeling more lonely and isolated.

Company revolves around Bobby, a single Manhattanite who is turning 35 and still a bachelor – he is surrounded by all his caring friends who are happily married and partnered up in life in the era of the 70s in the hustle and bustle of New York City.

But what has happened to Bobby? And why is he still single? He has many women in tow – but why can’t he settle down and find the right one to tie the knot with ??!!

The story unfolds with different songs throughout the Acts of the musical, accompanied by the beautiful music of the live orchestra who didn’t miss a beat.

The story flowed seamlessly from one vignette to the next as the audience laughed in appreciation and sometimes winced over the angst of Bobby’s predicaments.

I particularly enjoyed You Could Drive a Person Crazy where three of his girlfriends sang about their plea for commitment from poor old Bobby, and Sorry Grateful where the attached men discussed the pros and cons of their spouses and married life.

Artistic Director Sonya Suares has worked with Sondheim’s music and George Furth’s script to create a beautiful and unique rendition of Company, capturing its essence whilst still injecting its own modern take on this classic.

All up Company by WAAPA is a fun and entertaining evening provided by a group of talented musical theatre students and musicians. 

Company by WAAPA is on until 11 June at the Studio Underground of the State Theatre Centre of WA.

If you enjoyed this article, please share it!

To find out about the hottest events in Perth, follow us on Insta @PerthWalkabout