WICKED!  Rich property owner Darryl Van Horne's on the loose in Eastwick, population 666 - and he's got an eye on its women, in this raunchy musical comedy.

Three lonely women in a small country town - life's OK, isn't it?

"The sky is falling down" sings a tiny little girl, alone on the darkened stage, portent of downfall.  Will they resist temptation?

Amateur Sculptress Alex is bored, downing a few martinis with musician Jane and writer Sukie, they fantasise about a perfect partner; their wistful Make Him Mine the first of many memorable songs in this fascinating musical.

Alasdair Baker delivers a stunning performance as the charismatic charmer, seducing all three friends in quick succession.  His tango courtship of innocent Alex (Trish Burgess) the first conquest, then Jane (Julie Cooke) abandons her cello, singing a ravishing, abandoned top note, and finally shy writer Sukie (Sheila Millington) reveals her innermost thoughts in a tender solo.

Do they remain friends when they discover they've all be seduced?  Hell's never been quite so attractive, and they throw caution to the winds, scandalising the town's inhabitants, particularly bitchy Felicia, leader of the Eastwick Preservation Society.  Nobody argues with her, least of all hen-pecked husband Clyde (Brett Moore), nor pretty daughter Jennifer (Amylou Cooke).

Actress Sharon Barker-Herauville's performance as domineering Felicia, succumbing to the witches' hex - singing, choking, spitting feathers and coins - displayed impressive technique.  For the fledging witches have learnt to cast spells, and he sends them flying into the night sky in an impressive first-half climax.

Evil has its comeuppance eventually - the witches realise their spell has killed; innocent Jennifer is about to be seduced, and they recognise the Devil himself.  Their triumphant destruction of him was hilarious.

Musical Director Leslie Crowson inspires everyone in this company, from seven-year-old Ellen Baker to senior actor David Lewsey to reach new heights in this stunning musical.

Spellbinding!

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