REVIEWS AND Testimonials
“Driftwood comes together with so much talent and commitment. The singing is excellent. Based on a true story, this show has heart.”
Cameron Woodhead, The Age
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“Be sure to see this stunning new Australian musical!”
City Hub, Sydney
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“The stagecraft is mesmerising. The music is sublime. The acting and singing are superlative. This world premiere production is set to take the world by storm. This story and stunningly-crafted musical deserves to tour the world as a beacon of hope, and a reminder to avoid history repeating itself.”
Stephanie Johnson, Australian Stage
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“Driftwood The Musical is a wonderful piece of theatre and a vivid affirmation of survival in adversity. The theatre has always been the most direct medium for interpreting the world, and Driftwood is an example of works which, while examining the past, can carry us into a future imbued with greater understanding.”
Nicholas Routley, Australian Stage
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“ ***** Whether you’re a fan of musical theatre or simply seeking an unforgettable and thought-provoking experience, Driftwood is a must-see production that will leave you moved, inspired and filled with renewed hope, as you hold a melody in your heart.”
Dark Stories Theatre
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“Some people either love Musicals or not. Driftwood The Musical is one that all will enjoy. This true story will not only tug on your heartstrings with a rollercoaster of emotions, but it will also be an uplifting memorable experience. This an exceptional musical led by an incredible cast and creative team. I was totally in awe of the cast’s talent and throughout the production, I felt my eyes sting with tears. I was extremely moved and reminded of the strength of the human spirit. I fully recommend you all attempt to see this fabulous production of an important historic story.“
Weekend Notes
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★★★★ 1/2 “This is an excellent musical that is both powerful and poignant. Its construction is masterful and the story is incredible. I hope this production continues to grow as it really does deserve a strong platform to launch its powerful message.”
MUSICALTHEATRE.AU
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“Driftwood The Musical is a profound, authentic, historical, personal and arresting story. Art triumphs over adversity. My congratulations to everybody involved including the inspirational Eva De Jong-Duldig and her daughter with a glorious soprano voice, Tania. The music, the singing, the lighting, the production, all were astonishingly professional. A profound sense of sadness inspires the work but reality forged through art and hope are the abiding truths. A show not to be missed.”
ALAN JONES AO, Broadcaster
“Billed as “An epic story of love, courage, survival… and foldable umbrellas” Driftwood did not disappoint. Driftwood is a must see while it is in its Sydney Season.”
The Post – Read the full review here
“This is a heartfelt show…the inventive storytelling and excellent performances, along with a not-unwelcome dose of nostalgia, make it hard to resist. Anthony Barnhill’s impressive score, which deserves a bigger band, melds razor-sharp narrative and big showstoppers with the emotional jolt of traditional Jewish prayer song. Meanwhile, director Gary Abrahams stitches together the complicated, stop-start episodes with clarity and pace.”
Sue Williams and Harriet Cunningham, Sydney Morning Herald
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“Driftwood The Musical is a must-see production that tells a powerful and inspirational story of survival, perseverance, and creativity. Expertly brought to life by a gifted cast and a visionary creative team, Driftwood stands as a magnificent display of theatrical brilliance that leaves an indelible mark on the hearts of all who witness it.”
Dance Life Australia
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“Driftwood ticks all the warm and fuzzy boxes. That’s what audiences need and want! To leave the theatre feeling uplifted and grateful for their lot in life. Maybe some will gain a desire to find out more about their own stories. This musical might be ‘small in scale, but it’s big on emotion!’ Don’t miss it!”
Jonathan Cox, Stage Whispers
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“An extraordinary musical with emotion, heart and compassion to spare. Not enough superlatives exist to extend to the cast. The ultimate feeling viewers are left with afterwards is one of hope, happiness and a renewal in faith of the human spirit.”
Tinsel and Tap Shoes
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“An Australian musical of impressive quality and innate humanity, Driftwood the Musical deserves every success as it spreads its inspiring message of joy and hope.”
Man in Chair
Read the full review here. (2023)
Read the full review here. (2022)
“Set against the backdrop of the Holocaust, Driftwood The Musical is a deeply moving tale of tribulation and triumph. Tears rolled down my cheeks. The set and props are highly evocative. Sound and lighting design enhance the experience. The three-piece band – comprised of piano, violin and cello – is first rate. Direction is from Gary Abrahams – who has continued to successfully work on the production since its premiere last year.”
First on Film and Entertainment
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“If opening night’s standing ovation was any indication, Driftwood is a show which knows both itself and its intended (and wide-reaching) demographic very well. Drawing viewers in from the very first musical note, this experience packs quite the emotional punch. Driftwood is a show which speaks as much for the people who made it through World War Two, as well as a heartfelt tribute to those who were lost. This production lives and breathes right before our eyes and is a significant addition to Australia’s vast musical theatre landscape.”
Theatre Matters
★★★★ 1/2 “Driftwood the Musical presents a captivating tale of hope and perseverance which delves into poignant themes involving the Holocaust, inter-generational trauma, sacrifices in times of war, and the perseverance of art. The cast’s performances radiate infectious energy, embracing the audience in joyous Jewish family culture and zeitgeist that can’t help but put a smile on your face. With an incredible vocal and melodic force to accompany such a story, this musical provides an intimate, personal, and rightfully impactful portrayal of the erasure of Jewish history at a boots-on-the-ground interpersonal family scale. Its immersion of such themes would certainly echo the importance of appreciating what we often take for granted in our modern world today.”
The AU Review.com
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