Reviews

Through the blooming rose garden, tragedy besets the star–crossed lovers in Melbourne Shakespeare Company’s new production of Romeo and Juliet. Set within the botanical gardens in reputable St Kilda, rival gangs and cantankerous family feuds create havoc for the budding romantic pair.

Australian classic Hotel Sorrento is being presented with style by Harbour Theatre, under the stewardship of young director Thomas Dimmick.

Set very simply, with furniture marking the different locales, and played against black drapes, lighting operated by Robert Tagliaferri or Thomas Dimmick helps to define each space.

The story centres around three sisters. Rosalyn Anderson (Hilary), Rachel Bartlett (Meg) and Sjaan Lucas (Pippa) create a convincing sibling relationship, with beautifully drawn performances which have conviction and grit.

Billed as a magical, musical world of Pantomime, the show is a not-so-traditional take on the much loved Cinderella scenario. It is a creative blend of family fun and darker, tongue in cheek humour, packed with quirky characters. This is no production for the politically correct and the careful gender protectors. After all, this is pantomime where the gloves are off and we are shown ourselves for what we are. That doesn’t mean we can’t have fun at our own expense. Laughing at misfortune is the role of pantomime.

Alan Bennett’s 1991 part history lesson, part comedy is a curious beast that may well owe its popularity and awards to the performance of the character of King George himself.  Here the title role is played by Mark Gatiss (possibly most familiar to audiences via his role as Mycroft Holmes in the television series Sherlock, of which he is also co-creator).  Mr Gatiss’ performance is truly astonishing: a sustained tour de force, he gives us a character who is eccentric, embarrassing but somehow – and so importantly – admirable and endearing, and then