The Aussie Way

The Aussie Way is presented by The Actors Hub, as part of the 4x4x4 Season at Fringe World. This unique season, which has become a tradition over the last few years, features 4 plays, played once a week on a rotating schedule, over four weeks of Fringe World. The Aussie Way is a very well-presented verbatim theatre piece that features a strong ensemble cast, exploring what it means to be Australian in 2022.

Dorothy (a sweet Ava Lyas) and her dog Toto unexpectedly arrive in Oz, but this is not the land of Munchkins and witches, but our own great brown land, Australia. Over about 90 minutes (it feels shorter), we experience the voices of real people, beautifully embodied by this talented cast.

Looking at the immigrant experience from a multitude of views - racism, growing up in rural Australia, how Australia is perceived, the danger of death at every corner, Aboriginality, the oppressive heat (very apt this week) and misunderstandings. The tone ranges from the very serious to the absurdly funny.

The presentational style is interesting and vibrant, with the set - many crates - formed and reformed into multiple permutations. The actors quickly establish multiple characters that are relatable and believable, and the use of accents is especially effective.

Great teamwork from Stephanie Bedford, Tia Cullen, Andrew Dunstan, Adam Leeuwenhart, Trent Foo, Jared Stephenson and Ava Lyas, who keep this wordy, complex piece well-paced and vibrant.

The Aussie Way is an interesting look at Australian Culture, that is sure to resonate with anyone who identifies as Australian.

Kimberley Shaw