Reds

Bronwyn James (known affectionately as ‘Bronnie’) is one of the joys of Adelaide theatre!

Her one woman show Reds is a celebration and exploration of redheads, famous and infamous. More importantly, it is a lesson in the realisation of what is important in life and how to strive to be an original person.

James has performed this show in-between her portrayal of Judy Garland in The Boy from Oz to critical acclaim. Her energy seems boundless!

Reds highlights red headed women from stage, screen and history including Julia Gillard and what might have been her inner thoughts during her famous ‘Misogyny’ speech (to the song ‘I See Red’), Lucille Ball and her husband Desi Arnaz (with audience participation), and  Pauline Hanson (‘It’s Not Easy Being White’ sung to Kermit The Frog’s ‘green), Pippi Long Stocking, Annie, Madeline (from the famous children’s’ picture books), Anne from Anne of Green Gables and many more.

She also relates historical stories on the origin of and the horrific disability associated with a  famous brand of matches; and Hannie Shaft, a Dutch resistance fighter during World War II, who became known as “the girl with the red hair”.

Set in a stage flooded in blood red with only a dressing table, hat rack, wigs, pieces of costume and the trappings of her Reds hairdressing salon, James uses back projections to amuse, educate and occasionally confront us.

She paces her show to perfection, having the audience in tears of laughter and the next minute silent with just a tear or two using her unique blend of vaudeville, torch songs and what she lovingly calls ‘Bronnilogues’.

Threaded throughout the humour and song is her personal mantra that has helped her through times of loss and grief, making her a stronger authentic person.

What is most impressive is James’ energy and talent and her ability to touch the hearts of those who share her experiences and life with her.

A well-chosen version of  Cole Porter’s ‘I’ve Got You Under My Skin’ makes it clear that she is not going away and intends to keep her hair red and her spirit strong despite any challenges that may come her way!

Stephen Sondheim’s classic ‘Send in the Clowns’ is a superb finish as James sits on the apron of the stage and pours her heart out to we, the audience, who have gone on this amazing journey.

Reds is Bronwyn James’ journey to self-realisation through laughter, song and pathos, and judging by the reaction of the audience (composed of many of Adelaide theatre’s luminaries as well as the general public), she has more than achieved  her aim. Bravo Bronnie!

Barry Hill OAM