Ride the Cyclone
“Ride the Cyclone” at Hayes Theatre is a triumph of modern musical theatre, blending timeless themes with a campy, hilarious, and devastating narrative. The story follows six teenagers from a Canadian chamber choir who find themselves in limbo after a tragic roller coaster accident. Guided by a mechanical fortune teller, each character tells their story in a bid to return to life, resulting in a whirlwind of emotion and dark humour.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
Image by Prudence Upton
​
Bailey Dunnage’s performance as Noel is truly astonishing, embodying a potent mix of desire, queer anguish, and dramatic flair. Dunnage’s portrayal is both magnetic and heartrending, making Noel a standout character. Lincoln Elliott as Mischa offers a perfect balance of humour and tenderness. Elliott’s comedic timing is impeccable, and his moments of vulnerability add depth to his performance, making it both hilarious and heartwarming.
Justin Gray’s Ricky is exhilarating, showcasing immense talent and a vibrant stage presence. Gray brings an infectious energy to the role that captivates the audience. Ava Madon’s Jane Doe is another standout, with a performance that is unnerving, stunning, and surprisingly sweet. Madon’s nuanced portrayal adds a hauntingly beautiful layer to the production.
Mel O’Brien as Constance is out of this world, infusing the show with levity, joy, and humor. O’Brien brings an endearing, inexpert edge to Constance, making her character all the more relatable and charming. Her powerhouse voice adds significant depth to her performance, providing much-needed emotional relief amidst the darker themes. Karis Oka as Ocean is perfectly cast, delivering a character you love to hate with skill and charisma.
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
Image by Prudence Upton
​
One of the greatest joys of “Ride the Cyclone” is watching these characters revel in their teenage exuberance, being goofy, campy, and delightfully over-the-top. The show captures the essence of adolescence with all its awkwardness and uninhibited joy, making the characters’ antics both relatable and heartwarming. There is such a genuine joy in seeing teenagers simply be teenagers, embracing their quirks and passions without reservation.
Victoria Falconer’s musical direction is immaculate, bringing the score to vibrant life and enhancing the emotional impact of the story. The set design by Benjamin Brockman and costume design by Esther Zhong are equally impressive, creating an immersive and visually mesmerizing experience. The attention to detail in the production design helps transport the audience into the unique world of “Ride the Cyclone.”
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
Images by Prudence Upton
​
Despite a minor technical glitch with the projector, which seemed to have a mind of its own, the show is a flawless production and deserves a full five stars. “Ride the Cyclone” is a must-see, setting a high standard for independent theatre. It masterfully intertwines humour with the harsh realities of mortality, making for a theatrical experience that is both profoundly entertaining and deeply moving.
​
