Jasper Jones

Belvoir is off to a flying start for 2016 with Jasper Jones. Kate Mulvany has proved yet again she can do no wrong with her playful, poignant adaptation of Craig Silvey’s book.

When a parochial country Australian township becomes paralysed by fear following the disappearance of teen Laura, the racist, abusive underbelly of the town is exposed. Jasper Jones and sidekick Charlie’s determination to do good and solve the mystery of Laura’s mistreatment see them unearthing truths that turn dreams to nightmares. 

In a beautiful assemblage of creative talents, Michael Hankin’s set design, Matt Scott’s lighting design and Steve Toulmin’s compositions expertly inform Anne-Louise Sarks’s eerie, energetic direction. The production is tinted with nostalgia of Australia’s small, isolated country towns where everyone knows everyone’s business, but the pace and dramatic emphasis driving the production murky the rose-tinted portrait and add a relatable depth and unease.

The ensemble cast give stellar performances, with a delightful stand out performance by Charles Wu.

See Jasper Jones for its delicate but skillful balance between high drama and playful silliness. See Jasper Jones because of its raw, honest portrayal of Australians and their conservative fears mixed with their great capacity for bravery.

Maryann Wright

Image: Matilda Ridgway and Tom Conroy by Lisa Tomasetti