By The Bog of Cats
By The Bog of Cats, produced by Irish Theatre Players, was a superb production that played for a short season at the Irish Club. Featuring a stellar cast, and superbly directed, this highly emotive Irish drama packed a huge punch.
Set literally by “the bog of cats”, the wintery setting was beautifully created. Possibly the most striking ever to grace this shared space, the multi-locale set featured a caravan and cottage, as well as an open space that served as several locations, including hosting a wedding. Aesthetically beautiful in its own right, the set was sensitively and emotively lit from a design by Fiona Reid, and the production supported by a heartfelt sound design by Myles Wright.
Costumes, designed by Merri Ford, provided some visually stunning moments and some plot turning situations.
The performances were outstanding. Central character Hester Swayne was played with great strength by Solange Burns in a bravura performance. A tinker and somewhat of an outcast, she has been reluctant to leave the Bog of Cats, as she is hoping that her mother, who abandoned her as a child, will return. On this day, the father of her own daughter will marry another woman. Solange’s striking looks are perfect for this character, and for the slightly magical nature off this play.
Hester’s daughter, Josie, is beautifully portrayed by child actress Skye Wiltshire in a mature and intelligent performance that belies her age and experience. Her father Carthage Kilbride is expertly played by Luke Miller, with depth and conviction. The lovely Susan Lynch is very convincing as his mother, who can be cruel and cutting.
Suzannah Churchman steals scenes as the blind and mystical Catwoman, prophet and curiosity - played with a strange mix of grace and repulsiveness. Neighbour Monica Murray is given a nicely layered portrayal by Caroline McDonnel. Rebekah O’Brien sympathetically plays bride-to-be Caroline Cassidy, while her father Xavier is played with bluster and passion by Alan Kennedy.
Andreas Petalas impressively pulled double duty in two other-worldly roles - the Ghost Fancier and the Ghost of Joseph Swan, with Joe Purcell ably completing the main cast as Father Willow. Stage Manager Grain Friel and ASM Katie Flint added to their duties, nicely playing small roles.
One of the best shows of 2023, and a credit to all involved, this WA Premiere deserved to be seen by larger audiences. A top-notch production.
Kimberley Shaw
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