Loki – Thor’s adopted brother and nemesis – has his sights set on becoming the supreme leader of Asgard and Earth in the action-adventure Marvel Universe Live! It pits Loki, Nebula and the forces of evil against Spider-Man, The Avengers and The Guardians of the Galaxy. It is Dr Strange who takes to the stage (or, in this case, the air, first), starting the story by warning us of Loki’s nefarious plan. He is out to steal an ancient artifact, the Wand of Watoomb, which brings with it omnipotent power.
Thereafter, the battle of superheroes versus supervillains – complete with elaborate costuming and make-up – begins, with more than 20 Marvel characters featured. Against striking video backdrops, with special effects aplenty, they fight (repeatedly), rappel, trampoline, run, roll and perform aerial feats and motorcycle stunts. That is not to overlook fire dancing and fire twirling.
The action takes place at ground level and on a moveable platform above it. More than that, as is the trademark of his character, Spider-Man frequently flies. So, you get the chance to see athleticism and artistry, along with the camaraderie of everyone from Groot and Rocket, to Captain America, Iron Man and Hulk. The show is unashamedly combative (after all, that is what the Marvel Universe – and unfortunately much of Earth – is all about).
It is good versus evil, with brother against brother, sister against sister and student against mentor. It is a large-scale, slick and well-choreographed spectacle that is narrated and has a potent musical backdrop. I appreciated the action, effects and soundscape. Importantly, being an arena show, there is not a bad seat in the house.
Marvel Universe Live! is billed as a family event and that it most certainly is. There were lots of littlies appropriately kitted out in superhero outfits the night I saw it. And let’s not forget the merchandise that goes with the territory – loads of it, from snow cones to figurines and much more, available for sale. But to the show itself, I must say parents – many of whom have grown up as movie after movie made its way into cinemas – seemed just as enthusiastic as their kids.
Marvel Universe Live! is dynamic, dramatic and entertaining. It runs for one hour 45 minutes, including a 20-minute interval. You can see it at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne until April 15th. Then it is off to Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney between April 19th and 22nd. It finishes its Australian run at Adelaide Entertainment Centre from April 26th to 28th. There are morning, afternoon and early evening performances.
To buy tickets, go to https://www.marveluniverselive.com/en-au/tickets/
Alex First
Alex First is a Melbourne based journalist and communications specialist. He contributes to The Blurb on film and theatre.