I was fortunate enough to see this production live (twice) when the show was touring Australia, and the excitement of the live event is captured admirably by the televised production of the show. I loved the live show - and I love this televised production of the show.
It is a superb rendition of Banjo Paterson's famous poem "The Man From Snowy River" and the story is entertaining and vibrant. All the cast members are excellent in their roles and give wonderful performances. Lee Kernaghan, a talented country and western singer, is the narrator of the show in his role as the Balladeer, and he handles this difficult task with aplomb.
Steve Jefferys, the lone horseman who rode his horse Ammo into the arena and reared at the beginning of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony, re- enacts this historic event, with Ammo, during "The Man From Snowy River Arena Spectacular". Steve Jefferys also trained the colt Drummer (the 'Colt from Old Regret'), as well as teaching actor Martin Crewes the difficult skill of 'horse whispering' - something which Martin Crewes was able to master in a very short period of time. Martin Crewes, who plays the part of 'The Man', also sings beautifully and is an excellent horse rider.
The horsemanship throughout the show is superb, and the animal performers are absolutely wonderful. The equestrian rides are exquisite.
There is something for everyone with this show. There is musical comedy, a horse muster, a rodeo (buckjumping), coach and buckboard driving, rope and whip tricks, a rock concert, country dancing, a wonderful equestrian display and, of course, romance.
An excellent production all round.
