Reviews

Ah – Aussie Christmas – don’t you just love it: families who don’t normally meet spend concentrated time together; hidden egos, frustrations and disappointments surface like icebergs; people who normally abstain sneak alcohol, cigarettes and recreational drugs. Add to that an impending interracial wedding, a splash of rampant consumerism, a pinch of religion, a smattering of opposing Black and White Aussie politics – what could possibly go wrong?

Jessie Gordon is a glittering, glamorous, golden-voiced joy, who is just gorgeous as she leads the band Sassafras in this French inspired Fringe World cabaret.

Sassafras features Lachlan Gear, Aaron Deacon, Pete Jeavons, Adrian Galante, all superb musicians who work beautifully as an ensemble and have “great hair”.

Black Box’s second production, Bring It On, is a cheerleading musical with a large cast and bucketloads of enthusiasm and team spirit. Black Box is a youth focused theatre company and the cast range from 12 to 18.

Central character Campbell becomes cheer captain at Truman High School and has a good chance to lead them to Nationals, until she is unexpectedly “redistricted” and sent to poorer Jackson High.

Katie Price (Campbell) is an outstanding leading lady with lovely depth, who sings beautifully and a delight to watch. 

This sultry performance by writer and performer Christopher Fieldus is evocative of a bygone era of cabaret performance. Accompanied by the talented cellist Claire Abougelis, Ms CeCe tells the tale of Cecilia’s tragic experience of love and loss. The story is woven through an eclectic collection of narrative, poetry and song and produces a highly nostalgic and melancholic mood.