Reviews

Bryony Kimmings’ well-travelled show – from recent Brisbane and Melbourne Festivals and sell out runs in London and Edinburgh – must really take it out of her.

She’s specialised in autobiographical performance art that previously unearthed dark subjects like her own trail of sexually transmitted diseases, her concerns about tween culture, and her boyfriend’s depression. 

Alice In Wonderland Jr is, at its heart, a story about finding oneself. Lewis Carroll’s story is universally loved, having been adapted and readapted since the turn of the last century. If you are unaware of the plot – Firstly, how? Secondly, it’s a unique adventure story following a young girl who falls down a rabbit hole and wakes up in a Wonderland filled with all sorts of crazy characters.

This production is an interesting and exciting way to start the year as it allows the young, student performers a chance to show and develop their skills.  Captain Hook! We remember what a nasty type he was and here he is joined by an Indian tribe, Peter Pan, a family of three kidnapped from England and, of course, a crocodile. The plot had more twists and turns than a mountain road but it was presented in such a way that the audience was on track. In fact, the audience members became part of the show at times

Ballina’s Youth production this year is Dr Doolittle Jr, an adaptation of the popular Twentieth Century Fox movie and staged by and for young people.

With a cast ranging from 8 to 17, director Peter Harding has crafted the production to the talents of his large junior company.

In only his second experience on stage, the Doctor was in the capable hands of Declan Lodge, a youngster with a big future, who was suitably supported by Erica Little, Elisha Lodge, Evie Sargent, Reuben Addington, Hugo Addington, Nichole Travers and Riley Evens.