Puffs

By Matt Cox. Willetton Senior High School. Directed by Stefan Brand. Willetton SHS Auditorium, WA. December 8 & 9, 2022

Puffs, the story of “the other kids” at a certain school for witches and wizards, is a fun story of embracing the outcast within, and is presented with great teamwork and excellent enthusiasm by Willetton Senior High School’s Year 10 Drama Students. Playing multiple characters and embracing the art of group storytelling, this is a well-acted production that is fun for both cast and audience.

Willetton’s production featured two casts, both affected by Covid absences - and this review covers the Friday night performance. 

Using a somewhat Brechtian style, numerous costumes and props are stored at each side of the stage, with the cast present on stage throughout. Performed on a bare stage, save for occasional projections, director Stefan Brand kicked off the show in the minutes before show time, by conducting the warm-up on stage, allowing us to see these kids (who play mostly kids) as they usually are.

The show was launched by Stefanie C as the narrator. Confident and clever, she made us feel safe with the nature of the show, and set the tone beautifully. Hero of the tale, the gorgeously awkward Wayne, was played by David - a late replacement with book in hand but excellent acting, in Act One, and by Loshiagan in Act Two. His best friends were beautifully portrayed by Ava as Megan (a great journey) and Pulitha and Casey as maths nerd Oliver.

Characters are expertly realised - with most actors covering many roles. Memorable characters include Stephanie I’s authoritative headmaster, Bronte’s heroic Cedric, Tyler’s swaggering Viktor, Emily’s ethereal Myrtle, Emma S’s sophisticated Frenchie, Mischa’s mysterious Runes Teacher, Jenny’s warm Helga, Michael’s nasty Blondo Malfoy and Cassidy filling in beautifully as the quirky J. Finch

Especially strong doublings include Emily’s sweet but morbid Susan Bones and wonderfully cheerful Harry, Sofia’s lovely vague Hannah and her great death scene as Bippy, Ash’s dark Certain Potions teacher and pompous Professor Turban and Amity’s beautifully vague Leanne and romantic interest Ginny 

The cast were coping with multiple absences due to Covid, but pace and energy did not miss a beat, and I am sure that the audience would not have noticed anything amiss.

Student stage manager was Poppy Gomez-Escalante, with excellent sound management from Isla Someone and strong lighting from Luke Smith of Noctus Productions,

The audience was treated to a gorgeous supper at interval, adding to the joy of this night.

A lovely finish to Willetton SHS’s strong theatrical season. Congratulations to all involved.

Kimberley Shaw