If less is more, think how much more more would be. This is the prevailing spirit in a big show full of banger songs, which brings a Las Vegas-style vibe to Invers as we lean into the Christmas function season.

IMT’s latest theatre restaurant, It’s My Party, marks 70 years of the musical theatre company, and fair to say it marks the anniversary in fine style.

Are there better ways to spend an evening out than dining, wining and singing along to a #winning playlist of classic tracks? Not many, if any, in my humble opinion.

Spearheaded by the mighty McSoriley ladies, this production showcases an ensemble of both experienced performers, some of whom have been out of the game for a while, and young up-and-comers. One of the most striking things about the cast is their obvious enjoyment of each other onstage and the warm interactions between singers, dancers and elected MCs.

They wrap themselves around each others' performances, with terrific backing vocals that are top-notch, bang on point; crisp, energetic choreography adding a dazzling visual aspect; and a dizzying array of costume changes that must have had the wardrobe team stretched to the max backstage.

In short, it’s at the high level we’ve come to expect from IMT.

Everything about the show is big: big stage, big movement, big sound, big colour, big lights, big presence. As a package it’s a feast for the senses, and a whole heap of fun.

There are 18 performers in the cast – 12 singers and six dancers – too many to pick out individually but all earning their time to shine, with some striking breakout performances. 

For instance, the prodigious talents of the Kuresa whanau, Michael, Peta and Siolo. Their blend of voices in the Bee Gees’ How Deep Is Your Love is so velvety smooth it’s like a decadent dessert. Siolo’s voice is just lovely. She’s got a delicious, effortlessly sultry soul tone, and believe it or not this is just her first time in an IMT show. The first of many, I feel.

At another end of the music spectrum Graham Pirie brings a very capable gritty 80s rockstar persona to the stage, whether he’s busting out the Boss, riffing on Mark Knopfler or playing some really tasty harmonica. Pirie plays a dominant part in proceedings, with his exuberant vocals and banter.

There are so many great songs in this fab show, from 50s doo-wop to 80s stadium rock. Different genres, different grooves, different eras, but all good vibes.   

I’m just going to pull a few names out of the hat now, just coz, but be advised there’s entertainment here from start to finish and it really is a solid ensemble effort that will keep you tapping your toes and singing along lustily.

Bradley Crowe: Pour Some Sugar on Me. A stadium-size performance. Looks and sounds the part. Smashed it, bro.

Gerry McSoriley: Everything he sings. This guy is Invercargill’s Mr Entertainment, he knows how to engage a crowd and he’s still swinging those hips like the king.

Michelle Reynolds: To Be with You. Seriously? She hasn’t been on an IMT stage for 18 years? I love this song – it’s only two degrees of separation from Van Halen – and she does the business like the seasoned pro she is.

Bella Williams: the artist in charge of choreography, she lights up the stage with her three Es: elegance, energy and engagement. Leads a tight dance crew who bring flair and style. Special mention also to Samantha Schol, who is a dynamic dancer.

So there you have it. Las Vegas dips its jewel-encrusted digits into Invervegas and finds some common ground.

If you want to join the party, get in touch with the Ascot Park Hotel.

IT’S MY PARTY

Invercargill Musical Theatre

Director: Martha McSoriley

Musical director: Eve McSoriley

Choreographer: Bella Williams

Ascot Park Hotel, 16-25 November

Tickets: [email protected]