Reviews

One of the “bigger” Fringe Shows, Arise Productions’ Avenue Q played for a short season at Subiaco Arts Centre, as part of Subilicious and Fringe World. A slick, well sung and well-produced production which delighted audiences.

Emma (Kate Cole), blocked writer of fairy tales, is in Copenhagen to receive the Hans Christian Andersen Award for children’s fiction.  She’s brought her Mum, Beth (Gillian Murray) along because she thought it would be nice and Beth would enjoy it.  She is, of course, wrong.  As they look over their luxurious (if claustrophobic) hotel room, we realise Beth is, apparently, an Eeyore, a faultfinder, a contrary old leftie, fearful, and suspicious of just about everything, including this award with which her daughter is about to be honoured.

Sweating Like a Stuck Pig is a slightly crazy little story with some serious themes and big laughs. Sam, missing an old friend, dabbles with a Ouija Board and accidentally summons an ghost from the 1980s that he can’t return to the after-life.

Presented by T. Mutta Beilby at the Hayman Theatre for Fringe World, this is a rollicking romp that goes to some odd places including a beautifully staged psychedelic journey (which uses some of the most beautifully controlled projection that I have seen in a small-scale production). 

Cash Out of Hand: A Convict Tale is a moving blend of the story of Irish convict Martin Cash, with traditional Irish music. Playing to healthy audiences at the Irish Club, this was a moving and entertaining hour.

Based on Martin Cash’s 1870 ghost written autobiography, it tells of Martin’s conviction, his transportation to the colony of New South Wales, a move to Van Diemen’s Land and a second sentencing and punishment at Port Arthur. Appropriate music is performed throughout.