Flames begins with a musical introduction to its lead characters, private detectives Morgan Reid and Ian Sheff, through comedic rhymes of cheeky digs mixed to a sick beat on turntables right in front of us. This sets the scene as we journey with the detectives to solve a series of arsons across Wellington City.

Not being able to efficiently cooperate, it is very clear that both detectives suspect each other and form alliances with external forces. As the show progresses you see all five cast members – Roy Iro, Reon Bell, Sean Rivera, Moana Ete, Gypsymae Harihona – piece together theories to uncover who’s behind the arson attacks.

Almost fully delivered musically, Flames incorporates Māori and Pacific language into the dialogue to create a sense of relatability that is easy to connect with. All cast members are musically and lyrically gifted and this reflects the musical integrity of the show as well as the level of talent amongst all the cast members.

Co-created and written by Reon Bell, Roy Iro and Sean Rivera, and directed by Sepelini Mua’au, the show is perfectly constructed. Even though I am watching a live recording, he way everything is shot for the screen – including the set, camera frames and angles – makes me feel like I am there in person.

The set (Lucas Neal) is designed according to the needs of each individual scene with props used to accompany and clearly separate storylines that are being played out in parallel time. Such a clever technique and use of space. The dimmed lighting (Michael Lyell-O’Reilly) is perfect, transforming us into the 1980s and giving American crime television series vibes.

This brilliant and innovative hip-hop crime investigation musical is full of intriguing drama – great storytelling told in an exciting way, and comedy that can only be pulled off by Kiwis. This is some musical humor we all need in our lives. A unique and refreshing show, by far miles ahead of anything seen to hit the stage in years.

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I had the privilege of watching and reviewing FLAMES and I loved every minute of it. It was so different to any show I’ve ever gone to see but so enjoyable. 

The hip hop musical FLAMES directed by Sepelini Mua’au follows the journey of private detectives Morgan Reid and Ian Sheff trying to solve a series of arsons across Wellington. They call for external help for a hand on the case but this causes unintentional conflict between the five members.

Having no knowledge of the performance beforehand, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect for a hip hop musical but they certainly did not disappoint at all.

The performance takes place at Circa Theatre Wellington in the small Circa Two theatre and this gives the audience an up close and personal experience. The use of rap in a theatrical sense to deliver the dialogue keeps the audience engaged and is super satisfying to witness, especially when it’s rhythmical. The set-up of this performance is busy which compliments the chaos of the storyline and the five outstanding performers bring elements of humour and comedy when confidently delivering their lines. Each of their characters bring a different uniqueness to the performance but work cohesively together.

I love the incorporation of Māori language inserted throughout the show and the use of different instruments as music played live by the performers.

I am curious as to how the process of this performance was developed and what they did to create such an exciting masterpiece. 

Overall, I urge you to give it a watch for some good laughs, great vibes and fun entertainment.

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