In The Heights
Ryan Gonzalez as Usnavi & Olivia Vásquez as Vanessa. Photo: Daniel Boud
Sydney-siders have the pleasure of experiencing not one but two of Lin-Manuel Miranda's iconic musicals in Sydney currently with In The Heights lighting up the stage at the Sydney Opera House & Hamilton gracing the Lyric Theatre. First up for us at Pario is In The Heights, which offers plenty of heart & rhythm as it celebrates Latin culture.
A Stellar Cast That Shines Bright
The true magic of In The Heights lies in its powerhouse performances. Ryan Gonzalez, in the role of Usnavi, captures the essence of the bodega owner with a winning combination of humour, charm, & authenticity. Their portrayal makes Usnavi's dream of returning to the Dominican Republic deeply relatable, drawing the audience into his journey from start to finish.
Olivia Vásquez as Vanessa is another standout, delivering a performance brimming with emotional depth. Vásquez's vocal prowess is nothing short of astonishing, her voice resonating with power & vulnerability, making Vanessa's struggles & desires feel authentic & poignant.
Barry Conrad & Olivia Dacal bring an electric chemistry to the stage as Benny & Nina. Their love story is beautifully rendered, adding emotional weight to the production & ensuring that their on-stage connection is undeniably electric & deeply moving.
Barry Conrad & Olivia Dacal as Benny & Nina. Photo: Daniel Boud
Dance & Choreography: A Vibrant Explosion of Culture
The choreography of In The Heights is a vibrant celebration of Latin culture, incorporating a mix of hip-hop, salsa, rumba, samba, & merengue. Despite the smaller space of the Drama Theatre, the production bursts with energy & vivacity, bringing the streets of Washington Heights to life through dance.
The choreography is complex & well-executed, adding layers of meaning to the narrative & showcasing the diversity of the Latinx community. The ensemble’s movements are both precise & passionate, ensuring that the dance numbers are a visual feast for the audience.
Set Design: Intimacy at the Expense of Grandeur
The choice to stage In The Heights in the more intimate Drama Theatre of the Sydney Opera House has its benefits & drawbacks. On one hand, the smaller space allows for a palpable connection between the performers & the audience, creating a sense of immersion that might be lost in a larger venue.
Barry Conrad as Benny dancing with cast of In The Heights. Photo: Daniel Boud
However, this intimacy also comes at a cost. The grandeur & expanse of Washington Heights is somewhat diminished, with the story feeling more confined to a single block rather than a vibrant, sprawling neighbourhood. While the set design effectively conveys the bustling energy of the community, it occasionally lacks the majesty that one might expect from such a dynamic & culturally rich setting.
A Passionate but Modest Production
In The Heights at the Sydney Opera House is a passionate & heartfelt production that celebrates culture, community, & resilience. While the smaller venue may limit some of the grandeur, the stellar performances & vibrant choreography ensure that the show remains a must-see for Sydney's musical theatre fans. Whether you're drawn in by the electrifying dance numbers or the touching personal stories, In The Heights delivers a powerful experience that resonates long after the final curtain falls.
Until Aug 25. Sydney Opera House. $59.90-$139.90+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.sydneyoperahouse.com
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