Spy Drama Pack of Lies in WA

IT’S often said that truth is stranger than fiction – and Limelight Theatre’s latest show is a prime example. 

Written by Hugh Whitemore and directed by Gordon Park, Pack of Lies is based on the true story surrounding the most significant spy operation in 1960s London in the middle of the Cold War, dubbed “The Portland Spy Ring”. 

This true story is being brought to life on stage at Limelight Theatre, a community theatre in Wanneroo, Western Australia during September 2022.

The plot centres on middle-aged couple Bob and Barbara Jackson and their teenage daughter Julie, who are friendly with their neighbours Peter and Helen Kroger. 

All is blissful in their world until a mysterious stranger from MI5 arrives and asks to use the Jacksons’ house as an observation station to try and foil a Soviet spy ring operating in the area. 

The play follows the various events, lies and betrayal that take place in the months leading up to the Krogers being arrested and charged with espionage in 1961. 

Pack of Lies was first performed in 1983, starring Judi Dench, who won a best actress Laurence Olivier Award for her role. 

“Each character in the production plays a key role as the story unfolds, which presents a wonderful challenge to for the actors involved,” Gordon, who also appears in the show, said. 

“The show is made up of numerous scenes depicting places in time, so the challenge as a director comes from bringing a smooth continuity to the scenes in question as the story builds to its climax.”  

Involved in theatre for the past 30 years, Gordon came to WA in 1988 and has performed in a plethora of productions with Limelight, Playlovers, Stirling, Harbour, Old Mill, Rockingham and Marloo Theatres. 

Most recently, he appeared in Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None. 

“I have directed Pack of Lies once before and have always found it so intriguing because it’s based on actual events,” Gordon said. “It is, without doubt, one of my favourite plays.”  

Pack of Lies plays at 8pm September 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 29, 30 and October 1 with a 2pm matinee September 25. Tickets are $23, $20 concession – book at www.limelighttheatre.com.au or call 0499 954 016 between 9am and 12pm, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. 

Limelight Theatre is on Civic Drive, Wanneroo. 

Images (from top): Barbara (Fiona Forster, centre) dealing with undercover policewomen Thelma (Natalie Wiles, left) and Sally (Ada Ritchin); Gordon Park, left, Fiona Forster, Lara Simpson, Chris Juckes and Kez George; Fiona Forster, second from left, and Chris Juckes as husband-and-wife Bob and Barbara with daughter Julie (Lara Simpson, left), interviewed by Mr Stewart (Andrew Brown); and Christmas celebrations in Pack of Lies with Barbara (Fiona Forster, left), Bob (Chris Juckes), Julie (Lara Simpson), Helen (Kez George) and Peter (Gordon Park).