Love is love is love—and Regals Musical Society’s Head Over Heels wears its heart on its sequined sleeve like it’s going out of style. An unapologetic tribute to LGBTIQA+ joy, it shatters the idea that love must come with conditions. With a stellar lead cast and exceptional ensemble, the show hits all the right notes – outstanding singing, infectious energy and the delivery of a message that doesn’t need a sledgehammer. (Puns absolutely intended)
Perhaps one of the lesser-known musicals, Head Over Heels is a jukebox delight, featuring well known hits from The Go-Go’s, such as ’We Got the Beat’; and ‘Our Lips Are Sealed.’ Blending Renaissance-style romance with 80s pop-rock flair, it wins you over with charming naivety—then hits hard with some heartfelt themes and wicked double entendres.
The story follows the royal family of Arcadia, a mythical land whose kingdom is doomed unless they embrace change. This playful retelling of a classic tale brims with mistaken identities, sexual identity exploration, gender fluidity, and self- discovery.
These shifting dynamics have been masterfully kept in check by directors Chelsea Holland (acting) and Charles Wilkinson (musical). The result is a whimsical world where timeless love stories collide with electronic anthems and the balance between naughty and nice is kept just right.
The talented, kick-arse ensemble worked hard to bring the musical’s key themes of love, identity, and breaking free to light. They fully embraced the campy, over-the-top style required whilst never losing sight of the deeper messages.
Holly Helm lit up the stage as Pythio, the all-knowing oracle—channeling Puck’s scheming mischief with charisma and wit. Katie Vials begins as the clichéd, impetuous princess Pamela, but her journey to self-discovery is both humorous and poignant. As Pamela evolves from a girl in search of Prince Charming to a woman embracing her true identity, Vials, added depth with a perfect blend of vulnerability and strength. Her fabulous vocals and comedic charm bring balance to the character’s transformation.
Gianni Mia Attrill-Dowling avoids Disney princess clichés with her perfect portrayal of Pamela’s sister, Philoclea—the romantic heart. Her lovely operatic voice brings this gentle, dutiful daughter to life, whose love for Musidorus challenges societal expectations.
As Mopsa, the voice of honesty, Grace Ellis challenges the status quo with gutsy sincerity. Channeling her inner rockstar with Pat Benetar vibes, she brings authenticity and romance to Mopsa’s growing attraction to Pamela. She knows how to belt those power ballads right where it hurts!
King Basilius (Benjamin Olivera) is a flawed leader whose resistance to change drives the play conflict. Annette Vitetta’s Queen Gynecia is a perceptive powerhouse, sidelined by her husband yet empowered by a desire for independence. Their vocals truly shine in the show-stopping ‘Heaven is a Place on Earth’, a moment where the characters engage in a silhouette scene that’s hilariously M15+. Best distract the little ones with popcorn and something shiny—things get royally steamy!
William Christie steals the show as Musidorus, the romantic rebel. His transformation from shepherd to Amazon warrior, Cleophila, blends comedy and insight, playfully challenging gender norms. Christie owns ‘Mad About You’, flanked by a chorus of dancing sheep—so outrageously funny, you’ll be hoping for an encore. His beautifully understated timing ensures you can’t look away, and it’s no wonder every character (and the audience) falls for him/her.
Emma Stewart’s choreography was full of life, bouncing between bubble skirts, perms, corsets, and MC Hammer pantaloons—delightfully over-the-top and effortlessly fun. The orchestra was tight, with the keyboard and bass hitting harder than a dance party. However, at times the music drowned out the lyrics, making it a bit harder to catch every witty line. That said, the cast’s harmonizing still added a rich atmosphere that transcended beyond laughs.
If you love the wild antics of Spamalot and can’t resist a dose of saucy pop, Head Over Heels hits every note. Girl power takes centre stage, making this musical a bold and refreshing celebration of women. Packed with camp, comedy and killer tunes, it’s a night of pure theatrical joy that will have you dancing in your seat.
Just try not to resist downloading the best of The Go-Go’s on your drive home!
See https://theregals.com.au/category/shows/2025-season/2025-head-over-heels/ for further details.
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