Reviews

This adaptation of Heather Rose’s celebrated novel begins in the atrium of New York’s Museum of Modern Art. Performance artist Marina Abramovic is staging her legendary 2010 feat of sitting silently staring at museum visitors for 75 days. 

Throughout the play, we never see Abramovic (real or otherwise), but constantly projected behind Stephen Curtis’ stark museum space are her visitors, each taking their turn to stare back at her (and us).

Audiences entering the Rehearsal Room at the State Theatre Centre are greeted with a pink pram on the stage and the statement from Cyril Connolly: “There is no more sombre enemy of good art than the pram in the hall.” The pram is pushed to the side and left there by Stage Manager Catherine O’Donoghue, a subtle reminder, as solo performer Michelle Hall proves this statement wrong, with this highly entertaining, very moving production.

Presented by Ella Randle as part of the Hayman Theatre Season for Fringe World, 28 Grams is a one woman show that deals with a multitude of issues - most notably with living with an eating disorder.

Compellingly written and well directed by Ella Randle, this hour-long play features Grace, a young person who hates her cafe job, enjoys some casual drug use, hangs out with her friends and tries to find her place in the world. In a life that feels somewhat out of her control, she finds herself becoming addicted to controlling her weight.

Elliot’s Big Nose and the Snot that it Grows is both gross and gorgeous, a little treasure of a show for kids, presented by Elise Wilson and Christopher Moro, as part of State of Play for Fringe World. A wonderful blend of puppetry and live action, it keeps its young audience engaged and giggling throughout.