Reviews

Veronica Nadine Gleeson’s powerful new play is an adaptation of Anne Deveson’s applauded book about finding a way through her son’s schizophrenia.

The late well-known journalist battled an astonishing professional ignorance about Jonathan’s condition, and a system which left him only to the care of police and homeless shelters.  

In the bowels of the Paris Opera House, this ‘new’ Phantom hides away in a lush but dark world where flickering candles in gold candelabras cast shadows around an ancient keyboard, a strange music box and the few pieces of furniture he has collected to warm his lonely life. What a contrast it is to the colourful, lively world of the operas that are performed above him!

Adelaide’s rich community theatre scene stretches to the outer suburbs where passionate theatre goers have created companies whose work is particularly tailored to loyal local audiences. Since a small group of enthusiasts banded together in 1976 to establish the first live theatre within the City of Tea Tree Gully, Tea Tree Players (TTP) have come a long way. By fundraising and with local and state grants, funds were garnered, and over 46 years TTP have mounted 304 productions.

Crossing Delancey has opened at The Guild Theatre in Rockdale.  The story is warm and charming, combining Jewish tradition, a well-intentioned grandma, cultural shifts, a book store, a variety of pickles and the romantic potential of a new hat.

Lyn Lee has assembled quite a strong cast for this production.  The set design is very clever, especially considering the confines of the space and the costumes feel historically accurate.  There is an ease about the whole stage that is very welcoming.