Retirement Village People
If this is life in a retirement village, sign me up now! Four women talk, sing and make balloon… err… ‘shapes’ through a series of sketches about life after a certain age, when the grown-up children tell you through gritted teeth just how much they want you to move in with them and their families.
Starting with a bold song replacing ‘YMCA’ with ‘YOLO’, the foursome is then introduced as distinct characters in the close-knit village. There’s the compliant one, volunteering for everything; the self-funded retiree who lets you know it at every opportunity; the one dressed head to toe in animal print, who is determined not to grow up; and the newcomer, looking around the familiar furniture in a newer, smaller living space.
Written by Maureen Sherlock, it stars Kathryn Fisher, Rose Vallen, Sue Wylie and Sherlock herself, and each one’s embodiment of their characters elevates them above mere caricature. Directed by Rob George, with musical direction from Paul Brokensha, it’s a fast and fun collection of puns and scenarios that had the packed Studio at Holden Street laughing and crying the whole hour.
You’ll discover tips for cheaper gardening, how to be an award-winning volunteer, and be taught shameless explanations of the birds and bees. It’s always hilarious and whilst sometimes naughty, it’s never in bad taste. One-liners about the challenges of getting older abound, and it’s relatable whether you have a nan in such a village or you’re a resident yourself.
It’s clever writing, with great performances from four women who have decades of experience on and behind the stages around Adelaide. Get your tickets quick though: the one-off show at Marion is sold out and those at Holden Street are going quickly.
Review by Mark Wickett
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