Wedding with mixed messages

THE bride is Jewish, the groom is Catholic and their mothers are fiery. And when the bride’s ex-boyfriend arrives on the big day, the action ramps up in the hit musical It Shoulda Been You, being staged by Chatswood Musical Society at the Independent Theatre in North Sydney.

It has been described as “the funniest wedding you’ll ever go to” with plenty of twists and turns. 

The season opens tomorrow (Friday) and the cast includes St Ives-based Jewish actor and singer Dylan Hayley Rosenthal, who stars as the gentile maid-of-honour.

“I’m one of the few non-Jewish characters, and it’s super interesting seeing how Jewish culture is portrayed,” says Rosenthal, whose resume includes roles in Rent and Fame for Chatswood Musical Society and Jesus Christ Superstar, Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera with Willoughby Theatre Company.

“Working with a smaller cast is a big change, with a more intimate rehearsal space and the opportunity to get to know my colleagues,” she says.

Director James Worner promises that It Shoulda Been You offers something for everyone.

“Family expectations, selfdoubt, fear of disappointing loved ones, maternal love and approval, conflict and acceptance … it’s all there,” he says.

The cast includes Chloe Angel, Michaela Leisk, Jon Emmett and Greg Thornton. 

At 22, Rosenthal is the youngest cast member in the show and is relishing the opportunity to work with and learn from a more experienced cast.

“I wanted to grab this opportunity with both hands,” she said. “I always get nervous so hopefully I can turn the jitters into positive energy for the show.”

Rosenthal adds that the Jewish content has been a great educational experience for the rest of the cast, who have been asking her questions about all things Jewish, from keeping kosher to the correct pronunciation of Yiddish words.

“The Jewish humour is definitely there,” says Rosenthal. “I crack up during scenes from the way it’s written. It definitely relates to Jewish audiences and the music is something you can tap your feet to.”

It Shoulda Been You is at the Independent Theatre, North Sydney from March 31 to April 8. Bookings: www.chatswoodmusicalsociety.org.

YAEL BRENDER