Whenever I see that I'm attending a homegrown musical and that it's a world premiere, I admit that I am prejudiced into thinking that it's not going to be good. But upon arriving at The York theatre on opening night of Starwalker, I was immersed into the positive energy that was vibing throughout the building. There were dignitaries in one corner, drag queens in another, Indigenous dancers in yet another, and smiles all around. Everyone was eager to see the show that we were all about to witness.
From the opening number, we were presented with a brand new musical of such calibre that it should go directly to Broadway next. No joke. The songs were great, the singing was fantastic, the dancing was entertaining, and the storyline was engaging. Add in the Indigenous culture element, and this is something you've not seen before.
The story revolves around Star, a lost soul who finds themself embraced into the fold of the House of Borealis, a group of drag performers who have become chosen family to one another. Through their support, Star becomes the person they've always meant to be, while also navigating a love interest, a maternal figure, and a secret past. The House of Borealis itself also has its underlying tension going on.
This show has humour and it has heart. Writer Corey Payette's achievement is astounding, and if he won the Tony award one day, I would not at all be surprised. The imagery in the show is memorable and the messages it brings forward are important and heard, but without hammering the audience over the head with it. A balance of entertainment and education.
Go see Starwalker now at The York Theatre, on until March 5.
