Reviews

Instead of writing a political thriller about a dictatorship, South American playwright Ariel Dorfman produced Death and the Maiden –  a story about a husband and wife whose damaged relationship illustrates the results of endemic corruption and violence. As with some of Harold Pinter's political plays – I'm thinking of One for the Road – the exact location is never specifically stated, but events hint that this is Chile under the Pinochet regime of the 1970s and 80s.

Here once more without the wharf we had before!

No longer at the Wharf, but at the York Theatre at the Seymour Centre, The Wharf Revue team swing into the opening number of their new show. Will a change of venue matter! It’s highly unlikely. Their faithful audiences have been following them around the state for twenty years for a plethora of reasons. Their biting, acerbic satire for a start! Their intellect and acuity! Their wide experience across the arts: writing, acting, composing, performing.

To usher in the start of Summer, Stirling Players presents Ray Lawler’s Australian classic, Summer of the 17th Doll.

A famous story of cane cutters staying in Melbourne for the lay-off, a well decorated set, constructed by Pauline Gibb, with decor by Janet and Tom Brandwood and costumes by Merri Ford and cast, transport us back to around 1955. The titular dolls have been very prettily created by Fran Gordon. The show features an effective lighting design from John Woolrych.

As Michael Bublé says, “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” and no Christmas is complete without a pantomime. Tea Tree Players have been carrying on this tradition for many years, fostering young talent and showcasing a lot of grown-ups as well!