The Perfect Life (A Musical by Amity Dry) → Adelaide Fringe

 Four women. Four far-from perfect lives. One unshakable bond. The Perfect Life is a musical that brings women’s stories about love, grief, parenthood and careers into a much needed limelight. 


Written by Amity Dry and directed by Jo Casson, The Perfect Life is a work that was developed in South Australia by an incredible team - and the commitment to the craftsmanship of this musical shows. Amity Dry plays the role of Lily, joined with Kerrie Anne Greenland as Kate, Dee Farnell as Bec, and Chloe Zuel as Jess. The show opens at Lily’s chapel cafe at Friday night drinks. Initially it appears that all women have it together, however the image of their “perfect” lives quickly begin to shatter. Keeping this group afloat is their sisterhood (and a little bit of song and dance!) and over time, these pieces are put back together, highlighting the transformative power of female friendships and support systems. 


The plot tackles the relatable, contemporary challenges faced by women, evoking a deep sense of connection with the audience, who on opening night, were mostly women of all ages. Each character is given equal dimension and attention throughout the show, which further allowed us connection to their stories. 


The onstage dynamic between the four women was magnetic, creating a compelling onstage sisterhood. They guide the audience through the tough moments with sincerity, and then have us laugh together at relatable quirks of the female experience. Chloe and Dee have a hilarious onstage duet about sex which had the audience erupting in laughter, a fine example of when the show fully leans into its cheeky side! Contrastingly, Amity and Kerrie Anne deliver a touching duet in act II (cue tissues). Whilst the vocals and the storytelling is the focus, we are still treated to exciting and visually exciting choreography that leans into the goofy-ness of the characters, adding a welcome dynamism throughout the show. 


Amity’s score under Martin Cheney’s music direction is purely magnificent! It takes the audience through heart-wrenching moments that are approached with a musical softness and delicacy, as well as through bouncy, uplifting songs that make the audience laugh. Vocally, each woman gets their moment to truly soar. And what a treat it is to have these four incredible performers in these roles. 


The Perfect Life is simply a perfect musical. It proves the magic that is created when women come together both onstage and off. This is the show to make a night out of this season before it is destined for further greatness!

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