A punk rock punch

ALEX ROBERTON

That Bloody Woman is a riotous, unapologetic (16+) celebration of Kate Sheppard’s crusade for women’s suffrage, delivered with a punch that grabs you from the first note.

The show explodes onto the stage with bright colour, attitude, and a cast packed with talent. Kim Weatherhead dominates as Kate, carving up the stage with ferocity and charisma, embodying the revolutionary spirit that helped get women the vote first in NZ in 1893. The interactive nature of the performance helps mix laughs with gasps throughout.

The music strikes a delicate balance between brash political anthems and intimate, soul stirring stories about Kate and her fellow WCTU members personal lives.

Paige Jackson as Ada Wells is a standout with Quarter Acre Dream. Its musical beauty concealing a chilling truth that underscores the gravity of the situation for women in the late 1800s in NZ.

Justin Thomas brings sleaze and swagger as Richard “King Dick” Seddon, his number Tricky Dicky infuriatingly catchy and dripping with political arrogance.

Riley Barrett’s operatic power as William Lovell Smith elevates the show, adding depth and gravitas to the ensemble. He gives almost a five octave range and most definitely has one of the most unique voices in the entire cast.

With an age range of 20 through to 70 and a mix of fresh faces and experienced cast members, BMT has delivered a riotous performance in an impressively short timeframe. The stage and set are secondary to the incredible costumes, dynamic choreography, and fabulous music. Having the band front and centre is a stroke of genius by co-director Steve Campbell, showcasing their talent and embodying the show’s rebellious energy.

Bold, brash, and brilliant, That Bloody Woman is as important now as Kate Sheppard’s story was in 1893. If you want history served with grit, humour, and heart, this show is a must see and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Tickets to the events which runs from November 13-29 are available online here and at ASB Theatre.