All Shook Up by Nelson Youth Theatre Company, Tuesday 1 July 2025 at the Theatre Royal. Reviewed by John Hogan.
All Shook Up! is a vibrant jukebox musical inspired by Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, set to the unforgettable soundtrack of Elvis Presley.
Set in a small, conservative mid-American town in the 1950s, the story follows the arrival of Chad — a leather-clad, motorbike-riding, guitar-playing drifter — who shakes things up and transforms the town with the power of love and music.
This heart-warming and hilarious production, directed by Richard Carruthers with energetic choreography by Sophia Eagle, is a triumph from start to finish. The cast of young performers dazzled with their vocal, acting, and dancing talents. Their comic timing elevated the show, and it was clear the entire team poured heart and soul into this performance.
Elvis songs are no easy feat, yet the cast tackled them with flair. A standout musical moment was the group performance of Can’t Help Falling in Love, which left the audience enchanted.
Dylan Welsh (Chad) delivered a star turn — charismatic, confident, and vocally strong. Michaela Carruthers handled the dual role of Natalie/Ed with impressive versatility, mastering both character work and challenging lower-register vocals.
Devan Gavin (Dennis) and Evie Mintrom (Sylvia) brought emotional depth and powerhouse vocals, while Hannah Astridge (Lorraine) and Maia Eagle (Diana) delivered gorgeous harmonies in It’s Now or Never. Elizabeth Lockwood (Mayor Matilda) and Neo Gunn-Stringer (Sheriff Earl) had the audience in stitches with their comedic timing.
This show is an absolute crowd-pleaser — a joyful, laugh-filled night out for all ages. Don’t miss this 5/5 star show!
All Shook Up plays at the Theatre Royal nightly at 7pm, until Sunday 6 July. Get your tickets from www.theatreroyalnelson.co.nz
