Spencer

Serial Productions specialise in comedies - usually of the lighter variety. Their latest production, Spencer, is very funny, but also packs quite a serious punch, with its slice of life family drama, written by Western Australian export - Katy Warner.

We open on the living room of a suburban family home, beautifully designed by George Boyd; this living room is comfortable, but lived in, with ring of truth details like the ironing board in the corner (Properties by Lesley Sutton). The opening moments include an original song written and performed by Brittany Isaia, that wonderfully captures the bitter-sweet tone of the play. Lighting (designed by Shelly Miller) and sound (operated by George Boyd) support the show well throughout.

We meet a down-to-earth Aussie family. Single mum Marilyn and her adult children, for various reasons have all returned to the nest - daughter Jules, “coulda been” son Ben, and golden child and professional AFL player Scotty. They are awaiting the arrival of Scotty’s son, Spencer, whom he has only just discovered exists.

Jacqui Warner is excellent as matriarch Marilyn, desperate to meet her first grandchild. Kylie Isaia brings depth to Jules, a woman who has clearly struggled in the past. Her arguments with Luke Miller, who provides most of the comic moments as 'likeable loser’ Ben, are dynamite. Charlie Young is very strong as Scotty, questioning many aspects of his life, in a beautifully layered performance. Fifth character, Ian, a surprise arrival at the end of Act One, is well inhabited by John Taylor.

Old Mill’s auditorium can be warm, and I strongly advise taking a water bottle into the auditorium as it can become a little dehydrating and uncomfortable in masks - and you don’t want to miss this show.

Quintessentially Australian, and not to be confused with the other Spencer playing in the cinemas at the moment, this is a warm and funny production that mixes easy laughs with some examinations of Aussie and family values. A great night out that is different, new and fun.

Kimberley Shaw