Savoyards’ production of 42nd Street is yet another family affair for Warryn James of Birkdale who plays Bert Barry and sings the popular Shuffle off to Buffalo.
Mr James is a regular comic performer with the company and in this show he is promised some personal dance tuition from his daughter Miranda, 20, who is one of the tap dancers in the company.
“It’s not the first time we have performed together. It’s a pretty special thing to do – seeing each other develop together and being on stage at the same time,” he said.
“And I now have Miranda to help with the choreography. That’s pretty good.”
Mr James said he and Miranda had also performed on stage together in Oliver (Warryn played Fagen), Carousel, King and I, Boy from Oz and Mamma Mia!
He has also performed with his wife Melissa and son Lincoln.
“Savoyards is very family oriented. We aren’t the only family represented there on the stage,” he said.
Mr James said he had performed a smaller role in 42nd Street before, but was attracted to the role of Bert Barry in particular. Barry is the writer of the musical, within this musical.
“He’s a bit of a vaudeville guy and he gets to do the funny number,” he said.
“My moment is in act two. It’s quirky and it’s funny – a good comic role for me.”
42nd Street plays at the Iona Performing Arts Centre until July 8.
Tickets are $52/$48 and $30 for juniors and school students. Book on bookings@savoyards.com.au or 3893 4321.
