Review by Markus Hamence – Performance date: Tuesday 25 February 2025, The Queens Theatre, Adelaide, SA
A 100% Punk Rock Spectacle at The Queens Theatre that shakes Adelaide to the core with Raw-Arse Energy
Adelaide’s theatre scene is ablaze with the electrifying arrival of Hedwig and the Angry Inch, finally. This cult rock musical, often hailed as “the best rock musical ever”, has found a perfect home in the grungy and atmospheric The Queens Theatre just off Currie Street in the city.
But first, let’s set the Scene…
Hedwig and the Angry Inch is a groundbreaking rock musical that blends punk energy, gender exploration, and raw emotional storytelling. Created by John Cameron Mitchell (book) and Stephen Trask (music & lyrics), it first premiered in 1998 and quickly gained a cult following. Known for its blazing rock soundtrack, dark humor, and deeply personal themes, the show continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
At its core, Hedwig and the Angry Inch tells the story of Hedwig Robinson, a genderqueer East German singer who undergoes a botched sex-change operation in hopes of escaping to America. Stranded in the U.S. after her American husband abandons her, Hedwig forms a rock band, The Angry Inch, and begins telling her life story through music and monologues.
As she follows Tommy Gnosis, a former lover-turned-rock-star who stole her songs and her heart, Hedwig grapples with themes of identity, self-acceptance, and the search for wholeness. The show is a high-energy blend of comedy, tragedy, and blistering rock anthems.
Part of the 2025 Adelaide Festival Hedwig sets the scene from the word go. From the Trailer Park ‘Foyer’ to the Mid-West Bar with Chanteuse singing some twang. The tone was laid-out and it was embraced. Full credit to the producers who clearly put thought, energy and dollars into the experience for the audience.
Seann Miley Moore: A Force of Nature as Hedwig
Leading the charge is the phenomenal Seann Miley Moore, last seen as the Mechanic in Miss Saigon in 2024 at Adelaide Festival Theatre but also one of the poster faces for the 2024 Adelaide Cabaret Festival. Seann embodies the fierce, funny, and tragic Hedwig with breathtaking authenticity. Known for their powerhouse performances in as mentioned Miss Saigon, Moore brings both raw vulnerability and commanding presence to the role. Their portrayal is a mesmerising mix of punk rebellion and heartbreaking soul-searching.
I have a feeling Seann can embody any role, they make it their own, and takes the relevant charge. Their spirit and soul bleeds through THIS breathtaking, often heartbreaking, but mostly joyous performance and makes the character memorable way after the final bow and the trip home. A talent and force that is bold and only yet beginning to mark an indelible mark in entertainment. Watch this incredible space… their future is bright, shimmeringly bright.
Yitzhah Captivates
Adam Noviello as Yitzhak is undeniably good. Adam delivers a compelling performance, Hedwig’s devoted yet defiant partner. Noviello, known for roles in productions like ‘Priscilla: Queen of the Desert’, ‘Matilda The Musical’, and ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, brings depth and nuance to the character, capturing Yitzhak’s complex blend of loyalty and suppressed ambition. Their portrayal adds a rich layer to the production, complementing Moore’s dynamic Hedwig. With a voice that soars effortlessly, Noviello’s performance not only highlights their versatility but also enhances the show’s exploration of identity and transformation.
Costume
The costume, makeup and hair design play a pivotal role in capturing the raw, punk essence of the show. Embracing the grungy spirit reminiscent of the musical’s origins in New York’s drag-punk scene, the design team opts for a look that’s both messy and visceral, reflecting Hedwig’s tumultuous journey. This approach not only pays homage to the character’s East Berlin roots but also underscores the themes of transformation and self-discovery central to the narrative. The deliberate choice of unpolished, edgy aesthetics in both attire and hairstyling immerses the audience in Hedwig’s world, making her story of love, loss, and identity all the more compelling. Bravo to the team behind these looks.
A Gritty, Immersive Experience
This production leans fully into the show’s underground rock roots, evoking the raw energy of its origins in New York’s drag-punk nightclub scene. The lighting is superbly done and creates a concert vibe rather than theatre. The intimate, stripped-back staging, with a fabulous in-the-round silver curtain that lifts to reveal the stage and staircase, at Queen’s Theatre only heightens the emotional impact, making the audience feel like they’re part of Hedwig’s chaotic, glitter-drenched world.
A Soundtrack That Hits Hard
With the blistering live band led by Musical Director Victoria Falconer, the musical’s iconic anthems, from Tear Me Down to Wig in a Box, pulsate with intensity. Each song is a rollercoaster of emotions, channeling anger, heartbreak, and liberation. Sugar Daddy is a super fun romp. And, the powerful finale Midnight Radio is an anthem for our times. The soundtrack packs a mean punch.
A Must-See Celebration of Identity and Rebellion
Make no mistake, this is a brilliant punk-rock show with brilliant monologues – Hedwig and the Angry Inch is a deeply personal and political story of self-discovery, love, and resilience. This Adelaide production isn’t to be missed – it’s a primal scream of defiance, a joyous celebration of queer identity, and a reminder of the power of music to heal and transform.
Hedwig and the Angry Inch runs at Queen’s Theatre from February 26 to March 15, 2025 as part of the Adelaide Festival – grab your tickets before they’re gone!
