Tag Archives: kings cross theatre

Review: Black Jesus (Bakehouse Theatre Company)

Posted in Theatre by

bakehouseVenue: Kings Cross Theatre (Kings Cross NSW), Apr 29 – May 21, 2016
Playwright: Anders Lustgarten
Director: Suzanne Millar
Cast: Jarrod Crellin, Belinda Jombwe, Dorian Nkono, Elijah Williams
Image by Nick McKinlay

Theatre review (of a preview performance)
Parochialism is a problem that many of us can fall into, no matter where we live. We are citizens of the world but rarely acknowledge that fact, choosing instead to identify with narrow constructs of identity, based on immediate interests and geographic restrictions. When we talk about Australian stories, it is easy to make mistaken assumptions about what our collective thinks we are. In choosing to stage Anders Lustgarten’s Black Jesus, the audience’s perspective is broadened. The characters and situations are oceans away, but we cannot divorce ourselves from their concerns. We have to realise that our roots extend to unexpected places, and stories from foreign lands are relevant not only for our migrant histories, but also for the plain fact that humanity is ultimately unifying, even if man insists on perpetual combat.

After every war, people find themselves picking up the pieces as the dust begins to settle. Black Jesus is about investigations into abuses by the Mugabe government after its fictional fall in Zimbabwe. Gabriel is a young man accused of many atrocities while in a position of leadership, and Eunice is appointed to determine the truths of Gabriel’s story in the midst of confusion and ambiguities. The play explores the vulnerability of innocence in times of trouble, to question the culpability of individuals when fighting to survive. They are all grey areas, even if the bloodshed and brutality is irrefutable.

Lustgarten’s writing is confronting, vivid and often powerful, but plot details are not always clearly defined. Even though it is unnecessary to have a thorough understanding of every context in order to appreciate all its main themes and ideas, it is a challenge not to feel distracted by moments of confusion while trying to follow its narrative. Direction by Suzanne Millar is energetic and very animated. The production is passionately expressive in its portrayal of every personality and their intentions, fuelled by the enchanting live drums of Alex Jalloh.

Leading man Elijah Williams impresses with his immense agility in both physical and emotional terms. It is a vigorous but measured performance, magnetic in its allure, and disarming in its authenticity. Williams’ ability to engross with an extravagant sense of theatricality while keeping us convinced of the psychological accuracy that he depicts, is the highlight of the show and delightfully thrilling to witness. Equally dramatic is Dorian Nkono, full of colour in his interpretation of the unscrupulous government official Moyo. Humorous and deeply charming, Nkono’s confident and creative approach to his work is remarkable, and very entertaining indeed.

As we spend our days fretting over Sydney property prices and closing times of our watering holes, Black Jesus arrives to wake us to a bigger reality. We are grateful to be spared calamities that other nations have to endure, but cannot help but recognise the connections we share as a species regardless of borders and circumstances. Like many tragedies we hear about in our advanced state of information plenitude, we can only respond with despair and helplessness. We may not yet have answers to world peace, but ridding ourselves of ignorance is the crucial starting point.

www.kingsxtheatre.com

5 Questions with Belinda Jombwe and Elijah Williams

Posted in Suzy's 5 Questions by
Belinda Jombw

Belinda Jombw

Elijah Williams: How has it been working with the Black Jesus cast?
Belinda Jombwe: I’ve had the pleasure to work with three talented actors who each have very different approaches to the rehearsal process. It has been exciting, challenging and overall a great learning experience.

What is your greatest fear in life?
Oh that’s deep Elijah, ha! I guess my greatest fear in life would be not living life to its fullest potential. By not being present and by not seeing and enjoying the true value in everyday things.

If you had a million dollars now what would you do with it?
Well, that wouldn’t even buy me a house in Sydney. So… I’m sure it would be invested in a bank somewhere. Well, what’s left of it would be invested in a bank somewhere. I would first move to Madrid with my husband and then travel all around Europe!

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time within the arts?
I see myself as being an integral part of a vibrant, diverse and strong arts industry that is inclusive of all cultures, persuasions and physical abilities.

You walk into a store and see Beyoncé. If you could say two words only what would it be?
Guuuuuurl Lemonade!

Elijah Williams

Elijah Williams

Belinda Jombwe: If you could pick any actor to play yourself, who would it be and why?
Elijah Williams: I would pick Denzel Washington purely because he is my favourite actor and he somehow manages to adapt to play any character well and uniquely.

What’s your stance on diversity in the Australian arts industry?
I don’t think there is nearly enough diversity. Personally there is a bit happening but there could be far more showcases, for instance. I think cultural theatre is unique and vitally important to gain an understanding of the many backgrounds in our society today.

Do you have any similarities with your character?
Green bomber, Gabriel Chibamu? I would like to think I don’t have any similarities to Gabriel! Apart from the fact that he is incredibly good looking – which is obviously a trait that we both share…

What is the last film you saw and what do you rate it?
The last film I saw was Deadpool. And I rate it a 9.99 out of 10. It was AWESOME!!

Cats or dogs?
I don’t like pets or animals. I resent both cats and dogs – so neither!

Belinda Jombwe and Elijah Williams can be seen in Black Jesus by Anders Lustgarten.
Dates: 29 April – 21 May, 2016
Venue: Kings Cross Theatre

Review: Shut Up And Drive (Subtlenuance Theatre)

Posted in Theatre by

subtlenuanceVenue: Kings Cross Theatre Kings Cross NSW), Apr 9 – 23, 2016
Playwright: Paul Gilchrist, Daniela Giorgi
Director: Paul Gilchrist
Cast: Kit Bennett, Bonnie Kellett, Sam Glissan, Sonya Kerr, Jordie MacKinnon, Maddy McWilliam, Tom Nauta, Robert Roworth, Eli Saad, Michael Smith

Theatre review
It is hard to care for the environment. Lives in developed countries have grown to depend on an exploitation of our planet that now requires much more than giving up aerosol cans and recycling newspapers to offer reparation. Paul Gilchrist and Daniela Giorgi’s Shut Up And Drive talks about our love/hate relationship and dependence on cars, examining the extent at which we have allowed the automobile to become indispensable. It looks at the way we blind ourselves to its negative impact, so that we may indulge in a sordid affair with the metal beast.

Gilchrist and Giorgi’s writing is about social and environmental responsibility, but it comes from a place of generosity that acknowledges human fallibility. It points out the things that we do wrong, but it is forgiving of our actions. It shows us how we can be better custodians of earth, but the choice is ours to make. Shut Up And Drive is often funny, and sometimes touching. Its intents are serious, and can sometimes fall into a didactic tone, but its short scenes and colourful characters ensure that the play always has a sense of intrigue and enjoyment. At every step, the plot provides something to think about, but is also consistently amusing.

Gilchrist does excellent work as director for the show’s many intimate scenes. He establishes strong chemistry between players, and brings a delightful variation in tone between moments to keep us attentive. Liam O’Keefe’s lights make a significant contribution in achieving those atmospheric transitions with great efficacy and minimal fuss.

Actors Tom Nauta and Eli Saad partner up for two memorable sequences that employ their individual and divergent comedic styles. Nauta’s ostentation and Saad’s wryness meet like hot oil and water for riveting and combustible results. Also very funny is Sam Glissan, a quirky individual with an idiosyncratic approach to performance that tickles all the funny bones. On the other end of the spectrum is Kit Bennett who leaves a remarkable impression with her sensitive portrayal of loss and regret. Her work is delicate and understated but disarmingly captivating, with an intense emotional power.

When we talk about environmentalism, conservation and sustainability, we are in fact talking about the future. Shut Up And Drive has a caring heart, and does its best to connect with our conscience. It makes us question how we feel about all this degradation, and presents a test of our selfishness. The car represents comfort, convenience and luxury, but it is also undoubtedly harmful on many levels. Life’s decisions are full of complications, but often, we actually do know right from wrong.

www.subtlenuance.com

Review: Year Of The Family (Tooth And Sinew Theatre)

Posted in Theatre by

toothsinewVenue: Kings Cross Theatre Kings Cross NSW), Feb 10 – 20, 2016
Playwright: Anthony Neilson
Director: Richard Hilliar
Cast: Peter-William Jamieson, Brendan Miles, Brooke Ryan, Nicole Wineberg, David Woodland

Theatre review
Human sexuality is a fascinating subject. Each individual’s bedroom inclinations vary as widely as the way we eat our food. No two appetites are exactly the same, yet we think of sex as a universal experience, and its taboo nature means that we rarely discuss its nitty-gritty at depth, choosing instead to imagine simple paradigms that would apply to every person. In Anthony Neilson’s Year Of The Family, sex is anything but normative. Its characters indulge in secret intimacies, and as we observe the functioning of each libido, connections are made with the unfolding dysfunctions of their family lives. Neilson appropriates the theatrical quality of that relationship between family and sex for a text that is tragic, comedic, and many shades in between, to reveal the repercussions that can occur as a result of familial breakdowns. His writing is playful and dynamic, but also surprisingly delicate. It broaches difficult subjects, but refuses to be exploitative or sensationalist.

Richard Hilliar’s powerful direction brings intensity to a staging that seeks to simultaneously entertain and provoke. There is an adventurous streak reflected in the clever use of space, especially in scene transitions (with the help of Liam O’Keefe’s very effective lighting design), along with a relentless and captivating energy to his creation that makes for compelling viewing. Hilliar’s sensitivity to dramatic tension is the production’s greatest strength, and the results are very satisfying indeed.

The cast is uniformly lively and focussed, but some roles are interpreted with more resonance than others. Brendan Miles provides intrigue and an appropriate restraint to the mysterious Henry. It is an understated, and literally quiet, performance that offers a counterpoint to the other larger than life parts, but Miles leaves a strong impression with the presence and precision he brings to the stage. As the manic Felicity, Nicole Wineberg is responsible for the more euphoric portions of the show. The actor presents a wildness that alternates between comical and terrifying, and provides the production with its delightful yet volatile spirit, but the role could benefit from greater emotional complexity.

The people in the play are troubled. They are trapped in heartache, unable to be released from the past. They form their own re-enactments of broken histories in cathartic attempts to move forward, but are as yet unsuccessful. Nevertheless they continue to strive, even if wallowing is part of the process. It is fact that we do not choose our families, but debatable whether we can be free of them. There is little happiness in Year Of The Family, but it is us who must decide where and how the matter of choice figures in their respective narratives, and then in our own lives, reflect on the ways we are entrapped, voluntarily or otherwise.

www.toothandsinew.com

5 Questions with Brooke Ryan and Peter William Jamieson

Posted in Suzy's 5 Questions by
Brooke Ryan

Brooke Ryan

Peter William Jamieson: What are three words that define your character ‘Claire’?
Brooke Ryan: Naive, conflicted and raw.

You’ve got an interesting scene with Tabasco Sauce, how have you been preparing for it?
That scene is about so much more than just the sauce! But to answer your question… it’s taken teamwork, research & imagination to bring it to life. No method acting here!

What are you thoughts on the director and other actors in the process?
They really tickle my funny bone. All of them. And I’m waiting for someone to turn into a raging diva, but I’m probably the closest we’ve got to it!

Half the job’s done when you’re made to feel safe to explore this content – so I’m feeling particularly blessed in that department.

I love (the director) Rich’s brain. He’s a very clever man. Daring, edgy and funny too.

I get excited about playing with these people, they make me lift my game.

What’s one thing you want the audience to reflect upon when they leave the theatre?
So long as they’re reflecting on something, my job’s done. I’m not aiming towards selling a particular message, that’s too heady. I think the play will speak for itself and resonate with everyone differently. Early on I was concerned that some of the content may potentially trigger negative things in people but that’s no longer my concern. I trust that if you’re there and you’re watching it whatever comes up for you is supposed to, pleasant or otherwise.

What’s been the funniest moment in rehearsals thus far?
Answering this openly jeopardises the project… But keep your eye on David Woodland, he is one funny fellow.

Peter William Jamieson

Peter William Jamieson

Brooke Ryan: In your own words- what is this play about?
Peter William Jamieson: The sheer thrill of everything that’s bad, wicked and foul.

What attracted you to the role of Sid?
The fact he is the absolute opposite of me.

If Sid were an animal, what animal would he be?
Red belly black snake.

What are you thoughts on the director and other actors in the process?
Everyone involved is really pushing each other to do the best possible work. Richard’s vision for the piece is so vivid and inspiring.

You write as well as act. Which outlet do you prefer and why? And are you working on any projects at the moment?
Currently working on adapting a screenplay from a play I wrote called Retrograde.

Brooke Ryan and Peter William Jamieson can be seen in Year Of The Family by Anthony Neilson.
Dates: 10 – 20 Feb, 2016
Venue: Kings Cross Theatre

Review: Roadkill Confidential (Lies, Lies And Propaganda)

Posted in Theatre by

liesliesVenue: Kings Cross Theatre Kings Cross NSW), Nov 11 – 28, 2015
Playwright: Sheila Callaghan
Director: Michael Dean
Cast: Alison Bennett, Sinead Curry, Michael Drysdale, Jasper Garner Gore, Nathaniel Scotcher
Image by Emily Elise

Theatre review
Trevor is not a happy artist. She watches the doom and gloom on the news to stay in touch with things so that her very high profile work in the field of visual art may be relevant to her public. In fact, her studio is highly secretive, maybe she is insecure about the unfinished product, or maybe she is trying to control the reaction to her controversial art. Meanwhile, a government agent is investigating her, and everything begins to look sinister. Sheila Callaghan’s Roadkill Confidential is however, no straightforward cop drama. It is an abstract and often surreal piece of writing that celebrates the dramatic art form by prioritising the stage’s unique abilities of relating to its audience. Beyond the use of a narrative to satisfy, the play features sequences that resonate independent of characters and stories. Its free form allows actors to create moments of wonder, in service of theatre and all its possibilities.

Michael Dean’s exuberant direction is concerned with creating an experience that fascinates and intrigues. The show’s plot is not always coherent, and we leave with uncertainty about the moral of the story, but there is much to get involved with at every step of the way. Lights by Richard Neville and Mandylights, along with Benjamin Garrard’s sound are playful and dynamic elements of a production that is determined to deliver whimsy and extravagance. Creativity is in abundance here, and there is little that holds it back from making its ubiquity felt in every nuance.

Performances are suitably colourful, from a committed ensemble, unified in style and tone. The charming Michael Drysdale plays the unnamed agent with a quirky flair, and a confident physicality that brings life to the stage. His work needs better polish to reflect a more precise grasp of the text, but Drysdale’s execution of the show’s anti-realistic scenes are consistently amusing, and memorable. The artist Trevor is depicted with admirable strength and vigour by Alison Bennett who introduces an alluring severity to the mysterious role. Her piteous neighbour Melanie becomes a force to be reckon with under Sinead Curry’s surprising interpretation. The actor’s flamboyant approach and magnetic presence provide her character with excellent entertainment value, and offers good balance to a show that has a tendency to bewilder.

There is no discussion about whether Trevor’s new work will be understood, yet its effects are gravely anticipated. We need to talk about theatre in a similar way; to allow it to do more than just telling stories. There is no fear of abstraction in this production of Roadkill Confidential because it believes in affecting its audience in a more inventive or perhaps, sophisticated manner. At the theatre, we share a space for a couple of hours, and when we go our separate ways, we will depart having grown a little. It is by that amount of extension that we can measure an artist’s worth.

www.liesliesandpropaganda.com

5 Questions with Sinead Curry and Nathaniel Scotcher

Posted in Suzy's 5 Questions by
Sinead Curry

Sinead Curry

Nathaniel Scotcher: What animal that would play you in the story of your life?
Sinead Curry: An otter would play me in the movie of the story of my life. It would be called “Call of The Wild: One Otter’s Journey from River Obscurity to Voice Over Success”.

If your character was an ice cream flavour, what flavour would she be?
Melanie would be a double scoop combo of Vanilla and Pralines, served in a children’s-sized cone. She’s watching her weight.

If your character and Nate’s character went on a date, where would you go and what would you say to keep him interested?
Randy, being 14, must surely still be interested in parties; Melanie would take him to a funland playground-cum-bistro, and they would eat fish fingers and talk at length about his fork collection. If Randy could resist his urge to stab, that is.

Do you think Nate’s picture should have been on the postcards instead of yours?
Definitely. Nate’s bone structure is way more alluring and would lead to more ticket sales. Also, Nate’s skin tone is warmer and more welcoming than my pasty hue. Maybe if we had Nate’s face on the Australian currency instead of the Queen the AUS Dollar might improve?

If you could be Nate for a week, what would you do?
I would dance all of the time, and in my breaks from dance, I’d swim the English Channel. I’d also get many tattoos of Rabbits.

Nathaniel Scotcher

Nathaniel Scotcher

Sinead Curry: If Randy was a song, what would it be?
Nathaniel Scotcher: “Living Dead Girl” by Rob Zombie or “Gay Bar” by Electric Six.

What do you know about rabbits?
When I was a young lad I used to breed dwarf rabbits and sell the babies to pet shops. They were very cute and I spent many hours looking after them, however, I’m not sure that I ever really knew them.

If you could give Sinead one piece of career advice, what would it be?
Just be the artist you are and you will continue to shine brighter than the sun. Be true to yourself, coz yourself is marvellous!

What is your favourite piece of Sinead’s clothing?
Sinead has an eclectic assortment of tiny T-shirts that are tricky to decipher, this amuses me when I get bored in rehearsals. She also looks smokin’ in them.

Could Sinead be any more attractive?
I don’t believe she could be any more attractive, especially when she is doing her odd little Kath and Kim dance in the show… so elegant.

Sinead Curry and Nathaniel Scotcher are appearing in Roadkill Confidential, by Sheila Callaghan.
Dates: 11 – 28 November, 2015
Venue: Kings Cross Theatre