Reviews

Hayman Theatre Company presented this 1836 Russian classic, in the form of a very modern adaptation by David Harrower. Chosen by director as an acting challenge for Curtin University student actors, the cast have risen to the challenge of this interesting ensemble play.

While the dialogue sets this play in Russia, Setare Mogharebin’s interesting open framed set, and the costumes designed by Adah Hill and Lizzie Martin, while vaguely “historic” do not place us in a clear time frame. Bold lighting choices by Daisy Heath add interest and emotion.

When old King Lear asks his three daughters, ‘Which of you shall we say doth love us most?’ an audible ripple, a gasp or a groan, runs through the theatre.  ‘Oh-oh,’ we think, ‘here we go.’  There is a feeling of dread as well as anticipation.  How will we be shown them this time?  Because most of us know the consequences and now they are set in train.  We know there will be jealousy, lies, murder, torture, death and madness.  Why does King Lear (Robert Menzies) ask that foolish question?  Vanity?  Or is he

Originally a Royal National Theatre commission, performed in London in 2012, Alice by Heart has not had a professional run in Australia, but community theatres appear to be picking up this musical, written by the Spring Awakening team.  

Backdock Arts is exactly the sort of intimate space, and Set Me On Fire by Samara Louise is just the sort of drama you’d want to be immersed in at the start of a weekend of creativity courtesy of Brisbane’s Anywhere Festival. This one-hour piece, directed by Cale Dennis, is a gentle romance, but packs a powerful emotional punch thanks to the sincerity of its storytelling and the heartfelt charm and warmth of its performers.